Your roof shields your home from the elements. The term “roofing” embodies everything involved in designing and maintaining this protector, from choosing materials to performing repairs.

Different roofing materials suit different climate conditions. Learn more about the many options available for your building’s roof by reading this extensive guide. Visit our Website to learn more.

The roof is one of the most important components of any home or building. It protects people, furnishings and utilities from weather elements like rain and snow, but it also helps to maintain a comfortable temperature inside. Roofing has been around for as long as humans have, and its evolution through the years is a testament to humanity’s ingenuity and constant pursuit of innovation.

At first, roofs were limited to whatever materials could be found in the immediate environment. For example, in a tropical climate, reeds or palm fronds were common choices. Then, as civilizations developed, new materials were discovered that allowed for more elaborate structures and designs.

Thatch roofs made from woven branches and leaves were a huge advancement in the early development of buildings. They were effective and a lot more durable than the simple huts that prehistoric humans used. Around 735 AD, a more significant change took place with the introduction of clay tiles for roofing. These tiles were fired in kilns, making them hard and waterproof.

Until the invention of rolled roofing materials that could be seamed together, residential and commercial roofs were often constructed in individual pieces such as split cedar shakes or slate. This was labor-intensive and inefficient, but it was an effective way to create a sturdy roof.

Then, in the 18th century, sheet iron was brought over to America from Europe and became the preferred roofing material for homes and businesses. People treated wood shingles with pine pitch and linseed oil to yield different colors, which helped the shingles resist premature deterioration.

Then, in the 1960s, synthetic materials rolled into the market and changed everything. These materials offered a number of advantages over natural materials — they were lighter, more flexible and better adapted to different climates. These advances opened the door for new styles of roofing and created more options for builders and architects to choose from. Since then, the roof has continued to evolve, as does its importance in modern life.

Materials

There are a number of different roofing materials available to homeowners, and each one has its own advantages and disadvantages. Some of the most popular choices include asphalt shingles, cedar wood shingles and shakes, metal roofs and clay or concrete tiles. Each has its own unique look and is best suited for certain climates and homes.

Rolls of membrane roofing are a common choice for flat or low-sloped roofs. These are typically made from EPDM rubber, a synthetic material that is durable and long-lasting. They are often used for sheds and other outbuildings, but they can also be installed on residential roofs. These types of roofs are easy to install and are relatively inexpensive.

Traditional shingle roofing is most often made from asphalt, which is available in a variety of colors to match any aesthetic. These shingles are designed to withstand rain and snow without leaking or becoming damaged. They have a lifespan of about 20 years.

Roofing can be made from other materials, but they may not be as durable or as attractive. For example, natural slate roofing is a beautiful option that can last for centuries. However, it is also very heavy and requires structural reinforcements.

Other popular roofing materials include terra cotta tiles, which add an elegant and rustic appearance to any home and are particularly well suited for Mediterranean-style houses. They can be expensive, but they are very durable and can withstand extreme weather conditions.

Another type of roofing is metal roofs, which are generally constructed from galvanized steel or aluminum. They can be curved to accommodate a sloping roof and are very durable. They are less prone to leaks than shingles and can be very energy efficient.

There are also a number of different roofing materials that are made from organic and natural materials. For example, straw and thatch are often used in vernacular architecture, while banana leaves and wheaten straw are commonly used in tropical regions. There are even roofs that are constructed from bamboo splits.

Shapes and Styles

When it comes to a home’s protection from weather damage, there are a variety of roofing shapes and styles to choose from. From gable roofs to clerestory windows, each type of roofing adds to a building’s character and tells its own story.

For example, a gable roof’s dual slopes create an inverted “V” shape when viewed from the front or side. This type of roof is a popular choice for many homes and often found in Colonial architectural designs.

Another unique roofing style is a gambrel roof, which features two sloped sides and a flat top. This is a popular choice for barn-style buildings or rustic homes and can add a unique charm to any structure.

The mansard roof is a more modern option that features a lower steeper slope than its upper counterpart. This type of roof is popular in France and can be accented with dormers to help boost a home’s curb appeal.

A curved roof can also be an eye-catching addition to any structure, emulating the wings of a butterfly with tandem pieces that slant upward to form a V shape. This type of roof is a popular alternative to flat roofing and allows for more space and natural light in the interior of a building. It’s a great choice for homes in rainy or snowy climates because its sloped shape helps water and snow shed quickly.

Installation

A home’s roof is its main shield from the elements. As such, a professional roofing contractor can help ensure it protects the structure and its inhabitants as effectively as possible. A roof replacement or “reroofing” project involves tearing off the old roof, making any needed repairs to the sheathing and decking, then installing new shingles. While a homeowner can do some of this work themselves, a professional knows all the safety protocols and regulations to ensure everyone stays safe while working on a rooftop.

The sheathing under a roof is what gives the shingles their support and helps prevent leaks. The type used depends on the age and style of the roof, as well as local building codes. For example, a wood plank sheathing is often used for older roofs with traditional aesthetics; however, it requires more care during installation than modern materials like plywood and oriented strand board (OSB).

Depending on the location of the house and how many penetrations the roof has, other materials may be required for waterproofing purposes. For instance, valleys—the areas where the roof slopes meet—require additional layers of underlayment and felt paper to prevent water from leaking in those locations.

Metal roofs are another option for homes in areas prone to severe weather. These roofs can include standing seam, metal shingles (mimicking slate, shake or tile), and corrugated metal. Pros of these roofs include a long lifespan, resistance to fire and hail, and a reflective surface that can reduce cooling costs. Cons include the higher initial cost of metal roofs, heavier weight that can affect a home’s structural integrity, and the fact that they require specialized skills for installation.

In addition to the cost of materials, homeowners should also consider the cost of overhead for their chosen roofing contractor. This includes things like the amount and type of advertising, office expenses, equipment / truck & fuel costs, and worker’s comp insurance (which can range from 25% to over 40% of payroll, depending on the state and past incidents). It’s a good idea to ask potential contractors for references to gauge their customer service and quality.