Types of Residential Roofing
The roof is an important part of any home. Roofing Company Baltimore MD protects everything and everyone inside from extreme weather conditions. It also regulates the temperature inside the house. Roofing is not a DIY project. Hiring a professional residential roofing contractor has numerous benefits. It can save you time and money and protect you from dangerous accidents like falls.
Asphalt shingles are one of the most popular roofing materials. They are affordable, easy to install, and come in various colors and styles. They are also durable, improve energy efficiency and provide sound protection. However, they require regular maintenance to keep them looking their best and performing optimally.
There are two basic types of shingle designs: the traditional strip shingle and the more textural architectural (or dimensional) shingle. Both are made from a base mat of organic or inorganic material, saturated with asphalt and coated with ceramic-coated opaque mineral granules. Strip shingles are elongated and offer a single flat appearance, while architectural shingles are made from multiple layers of cut-outs and solids to create a more textural look.
The basic shingles are nailed to the roof using an adhesive that is heat-activated to ensure they stick and stay stuck. They are layered, and each shingle overlaps the next to prevent water from seeping into cracks in the roof structure. The granules help to protect the roof from weathering, and the top layer of the shingle helps to reflect UV rays to keep the home cooler.
Shingles are typically backed by manufacturer’s warranty. Some warranties are specific to the shingles, while others include a system warranty that covers labor and replacement of all components of the roof when there is a problem. In either case, you should always work with a certified roofing contractor that has an established relationship with the shingle manufacturers and a history of quality workmanship.
Residential shingle roofs are designed to be durable and long-lasting, but they do need periodic repairs and replacement. Most often, the need for repairs is due to the normal wear and tear of wind, rain, sun and hail. When damage occurs, it is important that the damaged shingle be repaired as soon as possible to minimize the risk of water infiltration.
One of the best parts about a shingle roof is that it can be easily updated and modified to accommodate additional features like skylights, chimneys, dormers and other design elements. This flexibility is not possible with some other roof types.
Metal roofs are gaining popularity as more and more homeowners choose them for new construction or replacement projects. Known for their longevity and minimal maintenance, the benefits of metal roofing go beyond its initial investment.
Whether you’re looking for a sleek and modern appearance or something more traditional, there are many options to consider for your home. Today’s metal roofing includes concealed fastener steel panels, painted in a fade-resistant color to match the aesthetic of residential neighborhoods. These panels are installed over sheathing and purlins. They are available in a wide variety of thicknesses, colors and profiles to complement almost any architectural style. They also have energy efficiency advantages with their ability to reflect heat instead of absorbing it.
Exposed fastener metal roofs can also be an option for residential roofing. These metal panels are usually overlapping and are screwed through the face of the panel to secure them to the deck or framing. Screw heads are often coated the same as the roofing panels to help them blend in and become less noticeable. Exposed fastener metal roofs are typically lighter than concealed fastener roofs and may require more frequent upkeep due to their higher vulnerability to corrosion.
While shingles are vulnerable to damage from wind, snow and hail, a well-installed metal roof is able to resist these weather elements. A metal roof is also fire resistant, so it won’t spread a fire to other parts of your home and it can even protect against stray sparks from wildfires.
While the initial cost of a metal roof is higher than a comparable asphalt shingle roof, it is well worth the investment over time. The durability of a metal roof means you won’t have to pay for frequent repairs or replacements, and its reflective properties can significantly reduce your energy costs. In addition, a metal roof is a good choice for homes in an area with high winds or heavy rains. In fact, Thomas Jefferson’s original wood shingles at Monticello were replaced with terne (tin-coated iron) in 1824 and lasted until 1855. A modern tin roof, however, would likely last much longer.
Wood shingles are thin, tapered pieces of wood primarily used to cover roofs and walls. They can be split, which differentiates them from shakes, which are typically hand-split for a rustic look and are often used for cottages and cabins. They are available in many styles, and can enhance a rustic or more traditional home with a natural appearance. Wood shingles are also more durable than asphalt shingles, and can last up to 30 years. However, they are more expensive and require frequent maintenance to keep them looking their best.
While almost any wood can be used for shingles, several species are more durable and dimensionally stable than others. The most common types of wood for shingles are western red cedar, redwood and white pine. In the past, other woods such as yellow pine, cypress, and hemlock were also used.
Unlike shakes, which are typically left natural and weathered, most wood shingles are treated with preservatives. The most common preservatives for wood shingles are copper naphthenate (available as a ready-to-use solution or as a preservative concentrate) and pentachlorophenol (PCP).
A major advantage of a wood shingle roof is that it’s a natural insulator, helping to keep your home cooler in summer and warmer in winter. They can also be a great choice for homeowners interested in reducing their energy costs, especially if they’re built from more durable woods such as cedar.
Like other wood products, shingles must be regularly maintained to prevent rot and insect infestation. Wood shingles are also prone to moisture and mildew, and can become discolored over time if not properly cared for. They should be inspected and treated with a preservative every 1-3 years, or more frequently if necessary to reduce the risk of rot or insect damage. Despite their high maintenance needs, most people love the look of a wood shingle roof, which complements a wide range of architectural styles and adds depth and dimension to any exterior design. Wood shingles can also be stacked on top of each other, which helps to conserve space and avoid cold leaks in the winter.
Tile roofs have a long lifespan and add beauty to homes. They are usually made of clay or concrete and are available in a variety of colors and styles to match the design of a house.
Aside from their beauty, they are environmentally friendly. They can last for hundreds of years and are easy to maintain and repair. Their longevity helps homeowners save on energy costs. They also don’t need chemical preservatives and can be recycled. They are fire-resistant, insect-proof and do not rot. Tile roofs are also more durable than shingles, making them less susceptible to damage from wind or hail.
While a tile roof is beautiful, it is not suitable for every home. It is often heavier than a shingle roof, so it needs to be constructed with stronger materials. It is not recommended that a homeowner attempt to install a tile roof on their own, as this can result in serious damage and injury. It is best to hire a roofing contractor with experience installing tile roofs.
Concrete, clay and slate tiles are very expensive upfront for both materials and installation. However, they can pay for themselves over their long lifespan. They help to regulate the temperature of a home, keeping it cooler in summer and warmer in winter. They can also increase the resale value of a property.
Some tile roofs are even designed to mimic the look of other materials, such as wood shakes for Craftsman or rustic homes or natural slate for traditional European-style houses. Others are created to be more streamlined, so they can be used on modern and contemporary homes. Aside from their aesthetic appeal, tile roofs are extremely energy efficient. The thick layer of insulation and airspace between the tiles reduces heat loss during the cold months.
Because of their thickness, tile roofs are more resistant to water damage than shingle roofs. They are also less likely to become brittle from exposure to the sun’s UV rays. However, like all roofing types, they are vulnerable to damage from ice and snow. They need to be regularly checked for signs of wear and tear and repairs should be conducted promptly.
