Roofing

What to Expect From a Roofing Installation

A roof is one of the most important components of your home. It protects you from the elements and helps maintain the value of your property.

Roofing

Roofing installation involves more than just laying new shingles. It includes a number of other steps to ensure the job is completed correctly. Click Here to learn more.

A roof is one of the most important parts of any home, and upgrading it is a great way to add value to a property. Choosing the right roofing materials is crucial to ensure both safety and durability. There are several different options available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. The material you choose can affect everything from cost to weather resistance and aesthetics.

The first step in selecting the proper roofing materials is assessing the condition of the current roof and the scope of the project. You must also consider the climate and weather patterns in your area. For example, clay tiles are beautiful and long-lasting but may not be practical in an area that often receives rainfall or snowfall. Concrete is a good alternative, as it can mimic the look of other roofing materials and provides strength and durability.

Once you have decided on a material, you must determine the appropriate thickness. Generally, a higher thickness will provide greater protection from water penetration. However, it can also increase the weight of the roof. The type of shingle you use will also play a role in the thickness, as well as its color and style.

Another crucial aspect of a successful roofing job is the underlayment. It is installed directly over the roof deck and acts as a barrier between the shingles and any moisture that gets through the shingle layer. Felt underlayment is traditional and comes in 15 and 30 lb. rolls, while synthetic underlayment is made of a woven/spun polyethylene or polypropylene and is more durable and less likely to tear than felt underlayment.

Finally, you must install roof flashing to prevent leaks in the areas where the roofing material butts up against a wall or other structure. This is especially important in areas that get snow, like the eaves and valleys of the roof. The best flashing to use is galvanized metal, as it will be resilient against rust and corrosion.

In addition to the above items, you will need a few other tools and supplies for a smooth roofing installation. A pry bar is used for removing nails, staples, and other fasteners from old roofing materials. A pair of gloves is necessary for handling slippery or sharp materials, such as shingles and wood splinters. Protective eyewear is essential for keeping debris out of the eyes, as it can cause painful injuries.

Inspection

During this part of the process, professional inspectors will examine the roof and its components to ensure they are up to standard. This is a requirement in many jurisdictions and helps to prevent issues that can cost you down the road such as roof leaks, missing shingles, or structural damage to your home or building.

This part of the inspection will include looking at the materials used to build your roof, such as the shingles and underlayment. The thickness, type, and quality of these materials will be checked to ensure they are appropriate for the roof and that they were installed per manufacturer’s specifications. Inspectors will also look for areas where water could enter your home, such as loose or missing shingles or cracking or crumbling mastic around vents and chimneys.

Structural Inspection

Next, the inspector will walk across the roof to check the structure. They will look for signs of sagging or uneven roof planes, as well as the condition of the gutter system and soffit. The masonry chimney will also be examined for cracks and crumbling grout. Inspectors will also inspect the attic for signs of leaking.

Workmanship Inspection

Preparation

When your roofer arrives, they’ll first need to prepare the site. This is a crucial step and involves removing the old roof, examining the existing flashing and underlayment for damage, and repairing it as needed. It’s important that any existing nails are removed or pounded flat as protruding nails can tear through new shingles.

Next, the attic must be ventilated. This is an important step that helps maintain a healthy home and reduce energy costs. Proper ventilation removes moisture and heat from the attic, preventing damage to the roof deck and insulation. It also regulates the temperature of the house and prevents mold and mildew.

Once the attic is properly vented, the roofer can begin laying a base layer of underlayment, which protects the roof boards and insulation from water, wind, and debris. Typically made of lightweight synthetic materials, underlayment is available in a range of thicknesses and colors to complement the look of your roof.

After the underlayment is installed, your roofer will install the new shingles. These can be either asphalt shingles or metal, depending on your preferences. A high-quality shingle will provide both a beautiful finish and durable protection against the elements. Once the shingles are in place, your roofer will install any necessary flashing and trim, such as around chimneys, windows, and joints. They will also install ridge caps, which protect the ridge of the roof from wind uplift and moisture penetration.

This step is crucial, and it’s recommended that you clear the surrounding area of any vehicles, furniture, grills, or other moveable items during this time. This will help ensure that the crew has free access to the roof and can safely load or unload materials. It’s also a good idea to have children stay elsewhere during the roofing process so they can avoid wood splinters and other debris. If this isn’t possible, arrange for them to stay at Grandma’s or a friend’s house. This will also keep them safe from the noise and vibrations that can happen during a roofing project.

Installation

Roof installation is no picnic, and requires multiple safety measures. This includes covering areas of your home and yard with protective tarps, having a dumpster delivered for the disposal of old materials, and using wooden boards to protect things like your air conditioning unit. It also involves walking on a ladder while carrying shingles, which isn’t for the faint of heart.

Once the new shingle layers are in place, you can add vents and other features for increased functionality. Proper attic ventilation removes moisture and heat, which protects the insulation and reduces energy costs. It can also help extend the life of your roof. Other options include ridge vents, gable vents, and soffit vents.

Re-roofing is a great way to improve the value of your property and ensure that your home is protected from rain, snow, sunlight, and wind. However, it’s important to consider the benefits of different roofing materials and how much protection they offer. A good roofing contractor can advise you on the best option for your home and budget. For instance, some roofing materials are more expensive than others but offer better protection and durability.