A roof is the most exposed part of a building and can be one of the most expensive parts to replace. Roofing is an area where designers should consider working with a roof consultant or contractor to explore the many options.

A sloped roof is a common feature in residential construction. Sloped roofs are designed to shed water.

The outer layer of a building is protected by a variety of roofing materials that defend against rain, snow and direct sunlight. These materials come in a wide selection of colors, shapes and textures, from traditional to modern. Choosing the right material for your roof can increase the curb-appeal of your home and enhance its design congruence. There are also a number of more practical materials designed for a specific environment or climate, and even some that can withstand the elements for a much longer period than other types.

Wood shingles and shakes are a popular choice for many homeowners. They offer a warm, rustic look to a house and are fairly durable. However, they are not as insulated as other materials and can become prone to moss and mildew if the moisture level is too high. Wood shingles are thin, wedge-shaped slabs that are produced by precise sawing, while wood shakes have thicker edges and are formed by splitting the wood.

Slate is a beautiful roofing option that can add a distinctive look to your home. It is heavy duty and resistant to weather extremes, but it is more expensive than other materials. A slate roof can last up to 150 years or more when properly maintained.

Other roofing options include rolled and membrane. Rolled roofing consists of large rolls of asphalt material topped with mineral granules and works best on low to moderately steep slopes. It is a cost-effective choice for homes that do not require an extremely long lifespan, but it can be susceptible to leaks if a proper sheathing layer is not installed.

Membrane roofing consists of waterproof rubber or plastic. It is a good option for flat or low-slope roofs because it is watertight, puncture resistant and easy to maintain. It also resists degradation from chemicals, ozone and ultraviolet radiation.

Metal roofing has been increasing in popularity over the past few years because it is highly resistant to wind, fire, hail and ice. It is easy to install and carries a 50 year warranty. There are several different types of metal roofing, from copper to galvanized steel to aluminum. The most common type of metal roofing is zinc, which has an aesthetically pleasing silver color and a very long lifespan.

Installation

A roof is a weather-proof covering that shields an animal lot or manure storage structure from precipitation. It also protects the enclosed space from sunlight, wind and extremes of temperature. Roofing is hard work and can be dangerous for an untrained person. It requires climbing up and down ladders, working in the heat or cold and carrying heavy bundles of shingles.

Roofing professionals begin by installing underlayment on the roof deck. This is a thin layer of waterproof material that protects the roof from water penetration. The roofing professional will then nail the shingles on top of the underlayment. The shingle nails will be close together near the edges and spread out more towards the center of the shingle. The shingles will be nailed in rows and overlapped by at least six inches.

If your roof has skylights, plumbing vents, chimney or other penetrations, the roofing professional will need to install flashing around them. The flashing is a strip of metal that will be bent at a 90 degree angle so one plane rests against the roof deck and the other is exposed above the underlayment, but below the shingles.

Maintenance

A roof is a significant investment and it should be treated with care. It is common for roofs to be neglected once they have been installed, but regular maintenance procedures can extend the life of a roof and reduce overall building operating costs.

Preventative maintenance procedures are generally lower in cost than emergency repairs and can be performed by the building’s own mechanics. These procedures also avoid the disruption of business and service to customers that can result from involved repairs.

In general, preventative maintenance procedures include regular inspections of the roof surface to look for damage or deterioration and to detect any problems that might be developing. These inspections should be conducted on a routine basis, preferably twice a year in spring and fall, or after major weather events.

These maintenance procedures should include clearing debris from the roof surface, drains, scuppers and gutters. Debris left on the roof restricts flow of water and accelerates membrane deterioration. It also poses a tripping hazard for personnel on the ground below. In addition, clogged drains or roof drains may cause localized ponding that can destroy a roof system.

Caulking around pipes and vents is another important maintenance procedure. This is easy to do and can prevent leaks. It is best to have a professional do this work, so that it is done correctly.

Regular inspections should also be conducted of the interior of a roof and any ceilings adjacent to it, to ensure that no leaks are occurring. These should be done on a frequent basis, or at least as often as a fire alarm test, so that any issues can be dealt with promptly.

A detailed checklist is an excellent tool to use for recording observations during a maintenance survey. This will help identify areas that require additional attention and will provide a record of the work completed. This can be used as a specification for bid solicitation. In some cases, this documentation may be used to qualify a warranty claim should it be required. A checklist should be tailored to each roof and may need to be updated as a roof’s condition changes over time.

Repairs

Roofing repairs can be as simple as shingle repair or as complex as replacing a roof dormer or truss. They can be covered by insurance, but homeowners must pay the deductible. Roof repairs are a necessity because the protective roof covering can be damaged by ice, snow, hail, or other weather conditions. Roof shingles and tiles can crack or chip, especially around ridgelines, which are usually capped with triangular pieces called ridge caps. If a ridge cap is damaged, water can leak under the shingles or tiles. Also, the boards that form the eaves on houses are known as roof tails or rafter tails. If excessive moisture or insects damage these boards, they may rot and cause more serious problems. Roof repair costs can be costly, but many states offer rebates for energy-efficient repairs.