Roofing is an exciting and challenging trade. There are 64 practical roof types, ranging from affordable asphalt shingles to premium composition or slate roofs.
Architecture is diverse, but all roofs must withstand harsh winters and scorching summers. Selecting the right materials and maintaining them correctly can help ensure a long life. Click here to Learn More.
Types of roofs
There are many different types of roofs, each offering a distinct look and function. Choosing the right roof for your home can make all the difference in how well it protects against weather conditions, how much usable space you have inside, and its long-term durability. This guide will give you a better understanding of the different roof types available so that you can choose the one that best fits your needs.
Pitched roofs are a common roofing type for residential and commercial buildings. They are characterized by their sloped surface and can be made from various materials, including shingles, metal, tile, and wood. The most common pitched roofs are the gable, peaked, and hipped roofs. The gable roof is the most popular because it is simple, inexpensive to build, and allows for ample living space in the attic. A hipped roof is similar to the gable roof, except it has two pairs of sloped sides instead of just one pair. The sloped sides of a hipped roof can be flat or curved, and they may feature gables or dormers.
Another type of roof is the rounded or barrel vault, which is often found in older homes. This roof is built like a dome and has a semi-cylindrical appearance that can span large distances. It is often used in conjunction with windows and allows light to be filtered into the interior of the building. Barrel vaults are also an option for commercial roofing.
Flat roofs are a less common roofing option but can still be found on some newer buildings. These are typically constructed with a layer of insulation and can be covered with a variety of material, including PVC, TPO, and EPDM rubber. Flat roofs are less expensive than pitched roofs and can be easier to maintain. However, they are prone to leaks and need regular inspections, cleaning, and repairs.
Green roofs, or eco-roofs, are a type of flat roofing that is covered with vegetation and soil to reduce the amount of heat a building produces. These are becoming increasingly popular with homeowners, as they provide a unique aesthetic and can help to lower energy bills. There are two types of green roofs: intensive, which supports up to 150 lbs. of plants, flowers, and other vegetation per square foot; and extensive, which supports up to 25 lbs. per square foot.
Materials
The roofing material you choose can greatly affect the look and value of your home. From organic wood shingles to Mediterranean-inspired clay tiles, there are many different options available. The best roofing materials are designed to withstand the weather conditions in your area and meet your specific design goals.
Choosing the right roofing material requires consideration of several factors. For example, you should consider the lifespan of the material and how it fits with your home’s aesthetic. You should also evaluate the cost and installation process of each material. Other important factors to consider include durability and energy efficiency. Certain roofing materials are designed to reflect sunlight and reduce cooling costs, while others offer insulation properties.
Rolled roofing material is the mainstay of low-slope residential roofs and outbuildings like sheds and garages. It consists of long rolls of asphalt-impregnated and mineral-granule-topped material that are attached to the roof with either a torch-down method or roofing nails. Rolled roofing is one of the cheapest roofing materials but doesn’t offer much in terms of style or appearance.
Metal roofing is a durable and long-lasting option that provides excellent weather protection. It is available in a variety of styles and colors, and some metal roofs are made to resemble traditional roofing materials like slate or tile. Some metal roofs even have solar panels installed, converting sunlight into electricity and reducing your energy costs.
Another durable and attractive roofing material is composite shakes. These are a hybrid of wood and plastic, and they can mimic the look of traditional cedar or slate shakes. They are resistant to rot, mold, and insects, and they can last for years. Composite shakes are also lightweight, which helps to ease the structural load on your roof.
Built-up roofing (BUR) is a popular choice for flat or low-pitched roofs. It consists of multiple layers of felt that are saturated with hot asphalt, creating a thick barrier that protects against water and UV rays. BUR is a relatively inexpensive roofing option that can last for up to 30 years. It is highly durable and fire-resistant, and it is easy to repair.
Installation
After the underlayment and flashing are in place, it’s time for the roofing material. Depending on your choice of roof, this can be anything from clay tiles to metal panels. Roofers install the materials in overlapping layers to create a watertight barrier. They also add flashing to the eaves and valleys of the roof, as well as around chimneys, wood stove pipes, certain vents, and along hip roofs.
Once the roof is complete, it’s inspected to make sure it meets quality standards. During this process, the roofers will check for proper ventilation and insulation as well as the integrity of the installation. They’ll also check for leaks, nail pops, and other potential issues. Finally, they’ll do a thorough clean up, removing all debris and nails from the work area.
During this phase, it’s important to follow all safety measures when working on the roof. Roofing is one of the most dangerous aspects of construction, and falls are the leading cause of death in the industry. To prevent injuries, it’s essential to use fall protection equipment and wear a harness whenever you’re on the roof. Other safety measures include covering surrounding areas with tarps, and moving vehicles or outdoor furniture away from the work area. It’s also important to keep children and pets away from the work area. There are many resources available to help with fall prevention in the roofing industry, including a mobile app, tip sheets, infographics, toolbox talks, and videos.
Maintenance
One of the best ways to avoid expensive roof repairs is to perform regular maintenance inspections. These are usually inexpensive, and can catch problems early, before they have a chance to cause major damage.
Flat roofing needs to be kept free of debris, as this can block rainwater flow and lead to localized ponding. This can cause the underlying waterproofing layer to fail, and may also damage insulation and roof decking. Tree branches that hang over flat roofs should be regularly trimmed back, as they can scratch or puncture the surface of the roof.
Flashing is usually installed around vents, chimneys, and HVAC vents to limit leaks. It is also used in places where two different roof materials meet, to prevent water from seeping between them. Flashing should be inspected regularly for rust and wear, and replaced as needed. Most leaks in homes are caused by flashing problems, so this is an important area to pay attention to. Leaks can be very costly, so it is essential to find and repair any problems as soon as they appear.
