The Basics of Roofing Installation
A new roof is a major project. Unless you’re an experienced homeowner, it is not something that should be tackled alone.
A roofing professional can protect your property with tarps and plywood while it is under construction. They will also lay underlayment to prevent water infiltration. The crew will install shingles, using proper spacing and nailing patterns. Visit https://arthursconstructionnc.com/best-greensboro-roofing-company/ to learn more.
When it comes to re-roofing or updating your home’s roof, the materials you choose make a significant difference in cost, longevity and aesthetics. Choosing the right roofing materials not only protects your home from rain, snow and extreme temperatures but also helps synchronize disjointed architectural elements and communicates your style.
There are many different roofing materials on the market today. Each has its own unique characteristics that set it apart from the others. Before deciding on a material you must assess your roof’s needs, determine the scope of your project and consider environmental factors like climate and weather patterns.
The most common roofing material in the United States is asphalt shingles. They are available in a variety of colors and styles. They are relatively affordable and easy to install. Other roofing materials that are commonly used include wood, clay tiles and metal.
A quality roofing contractor will use a combination of different materials to ensure the longevity and integrity of your new roof. These include:
* Roofing Decking/Sheathing: Typically plywood or oriented strand board (OSB), these are the foundational supports for all other roofing materials. * Underlayment: This is a waterproof layer installed between the roof decking and shingles to prevent water penetration. This is typically a #15 asphalt-impregnated builder’s felt, sometimes referred to as tarpaper. Synthetic underlayments are more durable and offer better protection from moisture intrusion.
* Shingles: A primary roofing material that provides both insulation and protection. These come in a wide range of colors and shapes to match different styles of homes. Asphalt shingles are the most popular because of their affordability and ease of installation. Other types of shingles are cedar shakes and slate.
* Leak Barrier: Also known as ice and water shield, this is a rubberized bitumen material that gets installed in all the areas of the roof that are most susceptible to leaks. This is one of the most important parts of the roof and must be done properly to ensure a long-lasting, leak-free roof.
* Ventilation: Systems that promote airflow and prevent moisture buildup in the attic space. This includes ridge vents, soffit vents and attic fans.
Preparation
Before the actual roofing begins, your contractor will prepare your yard. He’ll cover your pool, porch, or patio with tarps so that debris doesn’t fall on it and cause damage. He’ll also set up boards and plywood to protect areas near the house where shingles, nails, and other materials might fall during the roof’s tear off or installation process. He may have to trim back some branches or overgrown plants as well.
Once everything is prepped, he’ll get started by finding the access point for your home’s roof and getting his tools ready. He’ll also put on protective gear and ensure that all of his crew members are properly equipped for the job. For example, all workers should have safety harnesses or nets in case they need to climb a ladder during the process. They should also have footwear that provides good traction on asphalt shingles as well.
The next step is removing the old shingles and sheathing to make way for new ones. Depending on your roof’s layout, this might involve several trips up and down the ladder to remove each layer.
When the tear off is complete, the underlayment will be installed. This layer protects the eaves and roof valleys from water leakage. The contractor will also add roof vents for proper attic ventilation and ridge vents to help maintain an even temperature throughout the home.
Flashing is added around chimneys, wood stove pipes, and other vulnerable spots to prevent moisture intrusion. Specialty shingles are then nailed into place to finish the look of your new roof as well as provide protection.
Be sure to remove wall decor and other knickknacks that could be knocked off the walls by the vibrations of hammers and nail guns. You should also cover items in the attic and move them to a safe location that won’t be affected by the construction. If you have kids, consider arranging for them to stay at grandma’s or with friends during the roofing process so that they can avoid the dust and debris that might be falling inside your home.
Installation
When a roof is ready for the new shingles, the contractor will use a ladder and roofing caulk to remove any loose or damaged shingles. The roof will then be inspected for any leak-prone areas. These may include eaves and roof valleys, chimneys, wood stove pipes, certain vents, and hip roofs. If needed, the roofer will add flashing to these and other leak-prone areas of the roof, such as where a gutter runs. Then, the underlayment and shingles will be installed with the nail pattern that the customer selected (close nails near the edges, and more distant nails in the middle). The gutters and any vents will also be sealed. The roofer will apply a bead of roofing cement around each vent opening to seal it well.
Maintenance
A new roof is a major investment, and one that will keep your home safe from the elements for years to come. It’s important that you and your contractor understand the maintenance requirements for this essential part of your home.
Maintenance can include a number of things, such as:
- Inspect all flashing to make sure it’s free from splits and cracks and is sealing properly at the shingle or metal roof valleys, vents and chimneys. Re-caulk all joints in the field of your roof and around penetrations.
- Remove debris, especially leaves, twigs and sticks, from the roof regularly to prevent clogging and damage to shingles and the underlayment.
- Ensure all gutters and drains are clear of debris and in working order.
- Keep an eye out for moss, as it can quickly grow and erode the underlying materials of your roof.
- Removing moss promptly is key to protecting your roof’s health and longevity.
- Examine the roof for any missing or damaged shingles and replace them as needed.
- Leak Repairs
If you see any leaking, it’s best to contact your roofer right away to avoid further water damage and potential mold and rot. It’s also a good time to consider energy efficiency upgrades, like insulation or reflective coatings. A well-maintained roofing system will be quieter, more comfortable and more effective at keeping rain, snow and sun out of your living space. Whether you need routine maintenance or emergency repairs, a skilled roofer will be happy to help.
A new roof is a major project. Unless you’re an experienced homeowner, it is not something that should be tackled alone. A roofing professional can protect your property with tarps and plywood while it is under construction. They will also lay underlayment to prevent water infiltration. The crew will install shingles, using proper spacing and…