Roofers is the job of installing or repairing a roof to a building. Roofing protects the structure from rain, typhoons, excessive heat or cold and many other elements.
Roofing inspections require precision and accuracy. IMGING’s detailed imagery seamlessly integrates with Xactimate to provide roofing professionals a holistic view of each project.
Roofing materials offer a vast range of design options that serve esthetic purposes as well as critical functions for your home. The type of roof you choose depends on a variety of factors, including climate and design congruence with your structure. Wood roofs are very attractive and popular with luxury homes, although they are expensive. Two common types of wood roofs are shingles and shakes. Shingles are thin wedge-shaped slabs of wood made by precise sawing, while shakes are thicker, rougher wedges that are produced by splitting. Rubber flat roofs are another popular choice. These are usually made of EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer) or TPO (thermoplastic polyolefin). These can last for decades under the right conditions.
Materials
The materials used in roofing can have a significant impact on the overall look and functionality of the roof. There are many options available, each with varying degrees of effectiveness and longevity, depending on the specific needs of the project. Some of the most common roofing materials include asphalt shingles, slate, clay tiles and concrete tile.
The type of material selected for a roof can also have an effect on the overall cost of the project, as well as the environmental impact. Some of the most important factors when choosing a roofing material are its weather resistance and longevity, as well as its structural integrity. In addition to these primary factors, homeowners and builders need to consider the esthetic and design elements that will be associated with the roof.
Among the most popular roofing materials on the market are asphalt shingles, which have been a popular choice for homeowners and contractors due to their durability and affordability. They are available in a variety of colors and styles, and offer good resistance to wind and rain damage. Slate is another highly durable roofing option, with a lifespan of up to 100 years. It was once very expensive, but new processes for processing slate have made it a more affordable option.
Another popular roofing option is a composite roof, which combines several types of materials to create a single product. One of the most common forms of this type of roofing is a simulated slate, which utilizes resins and recycled rubber compounds to produce a more affordable alternative to traditional slate roofing. It is lightweight and offers an attractive appearance, while providing better longevity than a traditional roof.
A more sustainable roofing material is a green roof, which uses plants to reduce the amount of water runoff from a building and to provide insulation. These types of roofs are becoming more popular, as they can reduce the energy costs of a home by keeping it cooler in summer and warmer in winter. They are also great for reducing the amount of pollution in the air, as they help to put clean oxygen back into the environment.
Installation
Roofing is a meticulous process that requires attention to detail. A quality roof can protect the contents of a building from precipitation and sun’s rays, direct water away from the structure, and boost curb appeal. Whether you’re repairing an old roof or installing a new one, knowing the steps involved can help you choose the right contractor and understand what to expect during the project.
Before any work begins, the roofing crew will set up protective measures on your property. Tarps will be placed over any plants, furniture, or other objects beneath the roof line, and wooden boards will be put up to cover areas that may be exposed to shingle debris. This will prevent any damage to your landscaping or belongings and keep them safe from falling as the work is being done.
Once the tarps and boards are in place, the roofers will begin removing any existing shingles. Then, the underlayment will be installed. This material is a waterproof layer that covers the whole surface of the roof. It is usually made from two or more sheets of felt paper that are reinforced with either glass-fiber mats or organic mats and covered with a bitumen, which is often asphalt or tar. Depending on the type of roofing, the underlayment can be hot-applied or cold-applied.
The shingles are then installed, with the underlayment and shingle edges being caulked to make them watertight. Any flashing, which is the material that goes around chimneys and the joints where different roofing planes meet, will be replaced or repaired as needed. Finally, a final inspection is conducted to make sure that the new roof meets all building codes and looks good.
Maintenance
Roofing requires routine inspections and cleaning to ensure that it performs as designed, protecting the structure from water damage, extreme temperatures, ice damming, and other environmental forces. Homeowners should make it a point to conduct these routine inspections to look for damage, leaks, mold and mildew, surface deterioration, and other signs of problems. This can help to avoid costly repairs or replacements, as well as ensure that the roof continues to provide the thermal protection that it was originally intended for.
Roof maintenance also includes ensuring that gutters are clear to prevent ice damming, and that the roof is free from debris, such as accumulated leaves and branches, which can cause structural damage. In regions with distinct seasons, homeowners should also be sure to inspect the roof before each season to address any issues that may be exacerbated by the conditions of that particular time of year.
For flat roofs, regularly inspect for accumulated dirt and debris that can clog drains and cause the roof membrane to deteriorate prematurely. In addition, look for any tree limbs that are hanging over the roof, and make sure that they are trimmed regularly to avoid stormy weather-related damage. Finally, remove organic material like moss promptly to avoid its degradation of the shingles and underlying materials. Regular maintenance and repair will prolong the life of your roof. Maintain a logbook or digital file to document the dates of inspections, repair details, and other pertinent information. This documentation will be helpful in preparing warranty claims and will also allow you to easily reference information when scheduling future inspections and maintenance tasks.
Materials
Homeowners today have a wide range of roofing materials to choose from with varying lifespans and prices. Choosing a durable material that adds value to your home while ensuring longevity and weather resistance is crucial.
The most popular type of roof is the asphalt shingle, which provides an attractive appearance and a great value. It also offers good durability, able to withstand most weather conditions and elements.
Another popular choice is the tile roof, made of earthen clays molded into interlocking shapes and fired for hardness. Its durability makes it an ideal choice for hot climates and areas where salt air is prevalent, and it adds a high level of luxury to a home’s exterior.
A more expensive but extremely long-lasting option is the slate roof, which is a natural roofing material that offers a unique and elegant look to any home. Slate is available in a variety of colors and hues, and it is known for its strength and fire resistance. It is also a sound investment, as it can last for more than 100 years with the right conditions and maintenance.
Those looking for a more affordable roof should consider membranes such as Thermoplastic Polyolefin (TPO) or Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC). These membranes are flexible, making them resistant to punctures and tears. They are also easy to install and can withstand most weather types and conditions. Moreover, they are heat-resistant, which can lower your energy costs.
Rolled roofing is another option for low-slope roofs such as those on outbuildings like sheds or garages. It consists of large rolls of mineral-impregnated and asphalt-impregnated material that is topped with mineral granules. It is inexpensive and requires little maintenance, but it doesn’t offer much in the way of aesthetics.
Composite shingles are one of the newer roofing materials on the market that provide the look of traditional roofing tiles but at a more economical price point. They have the highest impact and fire ratings and can last up to 30 years. In addition, they are very easy to maintain and carry some of the best warranties in the industry.