Whether building a new home or re-roofing an existing one, the roofing materials chosen will have a major impact on construction costs, energy efficiency, and maintenance requirements. Here are some common options:

Wood shingles and shakes offer a natural look that can complement any architectural style. These may be made of cypress, red cedar, or western red cedar and can be kiln-dried or hand-split. Contact Roofer West Chester PA now!

Shingles are small roofing materials, often made of asphalt but sometimes fiberglass or wood. They are laid in courses, each offset from neighbors, to form a roof’s surface. They are also used to cover roof valleys, peaks, and changes in the pitch of a roof.

When a shingle is in bad shape, it can expose the interior of your roof to water and the elements. This can cause a rotting roof structure, leaks, mold, or mildew growth. It can also devalue your home’s curb appeal.

Some shingle problems are caused by environmental factors that can affect a roof’s lifespan, such as the temperature of the area where your roof is located. For example, high temperatures accelerate the deterioration of asphalt shingles. A properly ventilated attic can help reduce this problem.

Other shingle problems can occur because of improper installation, poor artistry, or natural wear and tear. Some of these can be corrected, while others may require the removal and replacement of shingles.

Walking on a shingled roof can damage it, especially if the shingles are old or wavy. This common roofing issue can result in the need to replace shingles and the structural materials beneath.

Most shingles are covered in granules that help them shed water. When the granules start to come off, it is a sign that the shingles are beginning to deteriorate. It is also a sign that the shingles are not protecting your home as well as they once did.

It is important to stay aware of these and other roofing issues that could occur at your home. By performing regular inspections, you can help avoid costly repairs and ensure your home’s roof is protected and functioning as it should. If you have any questions, contact a local roofing company to ask about the best roofing solutions. They can provide a thorough roof inspection and give you the information you need to make an informed decision. Also, read any warranties thoroughly to know what is and isn’t covered.

When most people think of their roof, they picture the shingles on top that protect their home from rain and other weather conditions. They may need to realize that the base layers beneath the shingles are equally important. Roofing underlayment provides many benefits for your home that contribute to its durability, performance, and longevity.

A roofing underlayment is a waterproof base layer installed directly on your roof deck before any other materials are applied. A properly installed underlayment can reduce the amount of moisture that gets into your home from underneath the shingles and can also help prevent mold, rot, and other types of damage from forming on the underlying roof structure.

Adding an underlayment can also help improve the thermal efficiency of your home, as it helps to regulate indoor temperatures and reduce heat transfer from one room to another. This can result in energy savings and lower utility bills over time. Finally, a quality underlayment can help reduce the need for expensive roof repairs due to damage from extreme weather conditions.

Several different types of underlayment are available, and the type you choose will depend on your specific needs. Traditional asphalt-saturated felt, or tar paper, is a common choice because it is inexpensive and easy to install. It is also water resistant, which is helpful in some regions with heavy rainfall.

Synthetic underlayment is a more durable option, with a lifespan of up to 30 years. However, like any other material, it is susceptible to environmental factors such as sunlight and wind. To maximize its life span, homeowners should follow proper installation instructions and conduct regular roof inspections.

It is also important to note that different types of underlayment have varying levels of UV tolerance, so it is important to carefully consider your climate when selecting the right material for your roof. In some cases, synthetic underlayment can deteriorate faster than other materials if exposed to sunlight for extended periods. Be sure to select a product that has been tested and listed as meeting the requirements of your local building codes.

Flashing is thin metal material installed to direct water away from areas where your shingles butt up against other structures such as walls, chimneys, and skylights. It’s one of the most crucial roofing components and is used to prevent leaks in problem areas, such as valleys where two roof slopes meet.

Flashing will typically be made from malleable metals like copper or aluminum. The exact type of flashing depends on the location and construction requirements. For example, a flashing under a window is usually concealed and won’t be visible from the ground, but a chimney flashing must be exposed and of specific height and shape to ensure it doesn’t get blocked by shingles.

A typical flashing project will involve base and step flashing and counter and valley flashing as necessary. A “step” flashing is the first piece of flashing that sits where a wall meets the roof and is typically a long L-shaped piece that extends down from the top of the roof to cover the vulnerable crease between the two surfaces. Additional flashing pieces are installed over the step flashing, protecting the joints and directing water away from the area.

The next type of flashing is counter flashing, installed where a wall meets the roof and covers the area between the shingles. It’s typically a short L-shaped piece that can extend down to the base of the penetration, covering and sealing the gap. A counter flashing is also often found under windows, at points of structural support, and in other places where the structure may be vulnerable to water seepage.

Another type of flashing is the valley flashing, installed at the bottom of a valley between two intersecting roof planes. Like the apron flashing, it’s usually a long L-shaped piece that can extend down to cover and seal the vulnerable crease between the two surfaces. It can be made from various materials, including metal, but PVC plastic is sometimes used because it’s cheaper and easier to work with.

Drainage is important to the life of a roof because it helps keep water away from the building and its foundation. It also keeps water from pooling on the roof, which can cause damage over time. Water that pools on a flat roof is called puddling and can lead to membrane deterioration and leaks inside the building. Proper roof drainage prevents this by keeping the water flowing away from the building and directing it to areas where it can be used or disposed of.

The best way to ensure a drainage system works properly is to inspect it regularly. A good inspection should look for standing water, which means there is a drainage system problem. It should also look for gutter clogs, water that spills over the edge of the building, and erosion around the foundation.

Many different types of roof drains can be used. Some are designed to be concealed from view, a popular choice for commercial buildings because it gives them a sleek, finished appearance. Others are designed to be visible, such as scuppers through parapet walls or drains with domed strainers. These are prone to clogging from debris, so they should be cleaned frequently.

Point drains are another option for roof drainage. They collect water at a single point, similar to the drain you would find in a shower. They are often installed in areas where a specific drainage point is needed for structural or topographical reasons.

While it is possible to install a roof drain without a professional, it is best to have one installed by a licensed roofing contractor. They can make sure that the drain is placed in a location that will not interfere with the roof or the surrounding structures, and they will also be able to install a grate that will protect the drain from debris. They can also recommend a maintenance schedule to ensure the drain remains clear. This should include regular cleaning, especially after a heavy rainstorm or snowfall.