A roof protects a building from rain, snow, sunlight, and temperature extremes. It can be constructed from various materials.
Roofing is an essential component of the whole building envelope. This guide is intended to provide design guidance to help designers weigh various options beyond systems that comply with code and warranty minimums.
Choosing the right roofing material for your home or building can be important. Factors to consider include the cost of the materials, durability and waterproof protection, insulation needs, maintenance requirements and aesthetics. A roofing specialist can assist you in evaluating these factors and selecting the best option for your specific needs.
Asphalt shingles are the most popular roofing material for residential applications and come in many colors and styles. They are easy to install and relatively inexpensive. They also have a long lifespan, generally lasting 30 to 50 years.
Another popular option is flat roof membrane. It can be made from EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer) or TPO (thermoplastic polyolefin). These materials are suitable for low-sloped roofs and are designed to last for 15-30 years. They are highly durable and water resistant, making them a great choice for areas that experience frequent rain or snowfall.
For homeowners who prefer the look of traditional shingles but are looking for a more durable option, there is metal roofing. These are available in a variety of different styles and can be designed to look like shingle or shake roofing, as well as standing seam or corrugated metal. Metal roofs are more expensive than other types of roofing, but they provide a high level of durability and can last for decades.
Slate is an attractive roofing material that can offer a lifetime of beauty and durability. This naturally occurring stone is a good choice for homes in cold climates, as it provides excellent fire resistance and insulation. However, slate roofs are heavy and not all homes can support them.
A more affordable alternative to slate is tile roofing. It can be made from a variety of materials, including earthen clays that are molded and fired for strength. These roofs are a good choice for hot or salty climates, as they resist moisture and rust. They are also a good choice for high-wind areas, although they can be heavier than other types of roofing. If you are considering this type of roofing, it is important to have a strong structure under your roof to support the tiles.
Installation
Roofing is a labor-intensive process that requires meticulous attention to detail. Whether you decide to do it yourself or hire professionals, understanding the steps involved will help you achieve a quality roof that protects your home for years to come.
Before beginning the actual work, a contractor should thoroughly inspect the existing roof covering and the structure below to make sure it is structurally sound and capable of supporting the new roofing materials. Any damaged areas should be repaired prior to beginning the roof installation.
A vapor retarder is usually installed at the bottom of each row of shingles, and it helps to keep water vapor out of a house. It is also useful in blocking sunlight and protecting the shingles from ultraviolet rays.
Roofing is hazardous work, and a good contractor should take every precaution to ensure the safety of his crew and anyone who may be in or around the area during the project. Standard roofing tools include a ladder, hammer, nail gun, and shingle cutters. Other important tools are a small pry bar and a caulk gun for applying roofing caulk to any raw edges. Workers should always wear protective gear such as hard hats and harnesses when working on the roof.
Maintenance
Regular roof inspections, performed by trained personnel and recorded, should be conducted to detect early problems or potential problems and address them promptly. This includes repairing cracks, patching leaking areas, and cleaning the roof surface. It also includes clearing blocked drain lines and addressing any algae or moss growth that can degrade the roofing materials. Inspections should be conducted after severe weather events to check for damage or deterioration.
Flat roofs should be inspected regularly to ensure the integrity of their waterproofing layer. Maintenance procedures include re-adhering the layers of fibreglass to repair any cracks, removing debris that may be collecting, and inspecting and repairing the flashing around roof penetrations. Keeping trees and vegetation from overhanging flat roofs will prevent them from being punctured or scratched, and ensuring that drains are clear of debris to avoid localized water accumulation or ponding can extend the life of the roofing material.
Shingle and membrane replacement is another important roofing maintenance item, as it extends the lifespan of the roofing materials and prevents leaks. Cleaning the roof surface helps maintain its appearance, prevents discolouration and enhances performance. Other maintenance items include inspecting and repairing the supports for rooftop equipment, such as HVAC units or solar panels, and verifying that rooftop safety features are secure and in good condition. Protective coatings or sealants can also be applied to the roof surface to improve its durability and energy efficiency.
Performing surface maintenance on steep-sloped roofs requires a great deal of care, especially when using power tools or climbing on unstable surfaces. Professional roofing companies are well-equipped and trained to safely perform these tasks, and a contractor can help a homeowner or building manager select the right type of roof maintenance for the environment and roofing material.
Repairs
Unlike giving a room a new coat of paint or updating cabinets, roof repair can be more complex. While repairs can cover up some serious leaks and damaged shingles, they won’t last as long as a new roof and may not offer the same energy efficiency upgrades. They can also void or shorten warranties on new shingles since you’re covering up previous damage.
When it comes to the most common roof repairs, prying off shingle tabs and peeling sections, removing and re-bending flashing, and applying sealant are the main tasks. You’ll want to have a few roofing tools, such as a cat’s paw for prying and a pry bar for leveraging sheathing, flashing, and shingles.
For more extensive repairs, such as significant structural changes, full tear-offs, or modifications in Landmark Districts and historic buildings, you’ll likely need a permit. It’s best to hire a licensed contractor to pull the permit and make the required changes. This will ensure your project is done properly and safely. They will have the proper knowledge and experience with NYC building codes to help you avoid expensive mistakes.