When a roof needs replacing, it’s important to select the best materials for your home. A skilled roofing team can guide you through the many options that suit your goals, architecture and climate.
Before shingles go on, contractors lay a layer of protective underlayment over the roof deck. This self-sticking element helps prevent water infiltration. Next comes flashing, which redirects water away from critical areas like chimneys, vents and ridge lines. Keep readng the article below to Get a Free Quote Today.
Slate is a fine-grained, foliated metamorphic rock that is usually dark in color. It is created by the alteration of shale or mudstone through low-grade regional metamorphism and it contains micas along with quartz, feldspar, pyrite, biotite and hematite. It is often cut into thin sheets for roofing and also is used in wall coverings, floor tiles and garden decoration. Slate is considered among the highest quality roofing materials available and is an excellent choice for homeowners looking for a long-lasting, beautiful roof.
Unlike most other roof-covering materials, slate requires minimal maintenance and can last up to 100 years or more. It is also durable and fire resistant, making it an environmentally friendly choice for your home. However, the initial investment can be prohibitive for some homeowners. To help make the decision easier, be sure to carefully consider your budget and whether the benefits of a slate roof will outweigh the cost.
A good slate roof will enhance the architectural style of your house and complement a variety of design styles. However, it’s important to remember that a slate roof is heavier than most other types of roofing and must be properly designed and installed to withstand the additional weight. This can require the use of extra structural members and may increase construction time.
When a slate roof is installed improperly, it can cause significant problems. It’s essential to ensure that the contractor you hire knows what they are doing and has experience with slate roof installation. A good slate roof consultant can provide the expert advice needed to achieve a successful installation and to avoid costly mistakes.
The contract documents should include a detailed list of all of the slate materials to be installed, the type and size of slates; the thickness of the cant strip (if applicable); headlap; flashing specifications; eaves projection and drip edge projection; and other important details. If these are missing, it’s a sign that the contractor is cutting corners or is inexperienced with slate roof installation.
The roof deck must be in good condition and free of soft, wet or rotting areas. This is an especially important step if you’re installing a new slate roof because it will affect the overall stability of the structure. If you see any deterioration, have it addressed immediately to prevent problems down the road. In addition, the roof must be inspected frequently to identify and correct potential issues before they become major problems.
Concrete Tiles
Concrete tiles are a popular roofing option because of their durability, resistance to harsh weather conditions, and ability to mimic other roofing materials aesthetically. They are also fire-resistant and easy to maintain. However, the higher initial cost for concrete tiles can make them less affordable than other roofing options.
Concrete is a versatile material that can be molded into various shapes and sizes, allowing homeowners to create unique roofing designs. They are available in a variety of colors and finishes, making them a great choice for those who want to achieve both a traditional and modern aesthetic. They can also be painted to resist UV exposure and fading, which can prolong their lifespan.
Unlike clay tiles, which are prone to cracking and can become brittle over time, concrete tiles are sturdier and more durable. They are also more effective at reflecting sunlight, helping to keep buildings cool and lowering energy costs. However, concrete tiles are more prone to mildew and moss buildup, which may require professional maintenance.
Because of their durability, concrete roof tiles can last for up to 50 years or more with regular maintenance and cleaning. They are resistant to rot, insects, and mold, and can withstand severe weather events like high winds and hail. They are also able to shed water and debris effectively, preventing clogging. However, they are more prone to damage due to heavy snowfall or improper installation.
The quality of the installation is crucial for concrete tile roofs, as gaps or misaligned tiles can lead to leaks and structural problems. Experienced professionals ensure that each tile is properly positioned and sealed, minimizing the risk of damage from extreme weather conditions. They can also install gutter systems and downspouts that are compatible with concrete tiles, ensuring that rainwater is properly channeled away from the building. Additionally, they can use mechanical fasteners to attach the tiles to the battens rather than using mortar, which can be more reliable than other methods. A visual inspection should be conducted annually to identify any moss growth or leaf debris accumulation that could prevent proper water drainage.
Clay Tiles
Clay tiles are made from natural clay and sand, fired in a kiln at high temperatures. They are available in a wide variety of shapes, sizes and finishes, offering homeowners flexibility in aesthetic design. Clay tiles are also extremely durable, withstanding harsh weather conditions and adding a timeless elegance to your home. Additionally, tile roofs can help reduce your energy costs by blocking the sun’s heat and allowing it to dissipate into the air instead of heating up the house.
Whether you choose barrel, flat or interlocking clay tiles, they can enhance your home’s architectural design and offer the durability of traditional slate or wood shingles. The upfront cost of a clay tile roof can be significantly higher than other roofing materials, but its longevity and beauty add value to your property and reduce maintenance expenses over time.
The clay tile roofing installation process is labor intensive and should be performed by experienced professionals to ensure a quality finish. It is also important that the roofing system be structurally reinforced for the weight of the tile, which can add to overall costs.
Regular maintenance is crucial for extending the lifespan of your clay roof. Regular inspections can detect damaged or broken tiles, as well as faulty seals. In addition, regular cleaning can prevent moss and algae growth and keep water from infiltrating the building. It is also essential to regularly clean gutters to prevent water backup, which can undermine the integrity of your roof.
When selecting a contractor to perform a roofing installation with clay tiles, you should look for one with extensive experience working in your specific climate and roofing style. Moreover, roofing professionals are trained in safety and have access to specialized tools and equipment that can minimize the risk of damage to your tiles. In addition, they can help you navigate challenges that might be outside the scope of DIY roofing projects, such as complex repairs or comprehensive maintenance on a metal roof.
BUR
Built-up roofing (BUR) is a time-tested, effective, and low-maintenance roofing system. This system protects shallow-slope or flat roofs by combining multiple layers of asphalt ply sheets with a flood coat and cap sheet. This type of roof is very durable and has a lifespan comparable to that of composition shingles, between 15 and 30 years. Moreover, BUR roofs are fire-resistant and provide excellent waterproofing. The top aggregate layer on a BUR roof (either gravel or a specialized coating) deflects the sun’s UV rays, reducing heating and cooling costs in warmer climates.
Aside from its durability, the construction process of a BUR roof is seamless, eliminating the seams and joints that are more prone to leakage in other types of roofing systems. This makes it a popular choice for commercial buildings and is particularly well-suited for large flat or low-slope structures like warehouses and office buildings.
BUR roofing is typically regarded as a low-maintenance option, with most building owners opting to inspect the system 1-2 times each year and to perform routine repairs when necessary. In the event of damage, BUR can be patched up rather easily as its surfacing materials are relatively easy to work with. In addition, many BUR roofs are equipped with a drainage system that ensures water does not pool on the structure.
While BUR roofing is generally considered to be a durable, long-lasting system, it is not without its drawbacks. For one, the multiple ply sheets that make up a BUR roof can add significant weight to the structure. This means that the roof deck and frame must be strong enough to support the added load, which can pose a challenge for older or historic structures.
The flammable nature of the materials used in a BUR system is another consideration, though this risk is mitigated by the fact that most systems use a cap sheet to contain vapors and liquids. Furthermore, most systems also include a fire retardant additive to minimize the spread of flames across the surface. Moreover, newer BUR systems are often designed to incorporate a rigid insulation layer that improves energy efficiency and further reduces the building’s carbon footprint.