Getting a new roof is a significant investment. It is essential to understand the installation process to make an informed decision.
Roofs cover the top of buildings, protecting against rain, snow, sunlight, and temperature extremes. They can be built in a variety of shapes and materials. For professional help, contact Corpus Christi Roofing Co now!
The roofing materials you choose determine the aesthetic and structural integrity of your home’s roof. They also affect its ability to withstand the elements, including extreme temperatures, wind and precipitation. In addition, many homeowners are concerned about environmental impact and may want to use green products or incorporate solar panels into their new roof.
Residential roofing shingles come in a wide range of colors, shapes and textures. They can either match or compliment the architectural style of your home. For example, some shingles are manufactured to reflect the sun’s rays while others offer thermal insulation. These shingles can also help increase your home’s energy efficiency.
Before laying any shingles, however, a top-notch roofing contractor will install an underlayment. This product is a layer of tar paper or similar synthetic material that goes over the decking (the wooden framework of the roof) and serves as a barrier to prevent moisture from reaching the underlying wood. The underlayment will be sealed with caulk at the edges and along penetrations like vents, chimneys and dormers.
Once the decking is protected, a professional roofer will lay a sheet of sheathing, which is the next layer to go over the rafters. Sheathing is usually made of plywood or oriented strand board (OSB), depending on the type of roof and the climate. It is important to have a good sheathing to ensure the roof can support its weight and withstand weather conditions.
Depending on the roof’s construction and your preferred style, you might choose clay tiles, concrete tiles or shingles. The former are expensive but last for decades and can enhance the look of your home. The latter are cheaper but require periodic maintenance.
The final step is to install flashing, which is metal material installed around the chimney, joints and other spots on your roof that are susceptible to leaks. A quality roofer will carefully install this protective measure to ensure it does not allow water to sneak into your home.
Some roofers will add a mineral-surfaced leak barrier to the eaves, valleys and other vulnerable areas of the roof, especially in cold regions. This helps to prevent damaging leaks caused by ice dams and wind-driven rain.
Inspection
Roofing inspections are important because they help homeowners address minor issues before they turn into major problems. They can also prevent costly repairs and prolong the lifespan of a roof. A reliable residential or commercial roofing contractor will provide a written report that includes photographs and descriptions of the roof’s condition as well as expert recommendations for necessary roof repairs and maintenance tasks.
A roofing inspection is the first step that a homeowner should take to ensure that their roof is in good shape. The inspector will look at all parts of the roof and will examine the materials used as well as the structure itself. They will look for any signs of leaks, mold, rot, and other damage caused by natural elements or improper installation.
They will also check the drains and gutters, looking for debris that could be blocking the flow of water or causing ponding. They will also look at the flashing, which are strips of metal that seal the joints in a roof. These are often located near chimneys, vents, and roof valleys.
The gutters will be checked for rust, mold, and other damage. They will also be examined for sagging or other signs of wear. The inspector will also look for shingle aggregate that has fallen in the roof valleys or on the ground beneath gutter downspouts. They will also inspect the rubber boots and seals around vent pipes, looking for gaps or deterioration.
Another inspection that is done on a roof is the workmanship inspection. This involves examining the roof for any errors that can cause problems in the future, such as poorly installed tiles or shingles. A reputable roofing company will be able to identify these errors and correct them before they become serious problems. They can also recommend any additional safety measures that should be taken when working at heights on a roof. These may include a fall prevention plan, a ladder safety mobile app, infographics and tipsheets, toolbox talks, and video and webinars. They can even offer on-site training and safety leadership programs for their employees.
Installation
Roofing installation is a difficult job. It requires specialized knowledge and training, as well as a lot of time on the roof in various weather conditions. Professionals will carefully plan each step of the project, analyzing your home and choosing the right materials for it. They will also take precautionary measures to protect the surroundings and organize their workspace. Before the start of the project, they will request a building permit and insurance certificate.
All penetrations through the roof, such as curve vents or sewer vents, will be sealed with a special adhesive starter strip. This creates a strong seal that defends your home against water intrusion.
Maintenance
It is important to perform regular maintenance on your roof, so problems are addressed quickly before they become serious. This can include trimming trees so they don’t overhang the roof, ensuring seals around roof penetrations (such as skylights, vents and chimneys) are intact and that they remain unobstructed, preventing water leaks, making sure gutters are free of debris, and inspecting the integrity of the insulation to ensure it is still working properly. This type of preventive maintenance will help keep your home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter, saving you money on energy costs. Insulation also makes your home more resistant to severe weather damage, such as hail and wind.