The roof is a building’s pinnacle, protecting its interior from diverse climate factors. It shields occupants from rain, snow, and cruel UV rays.
The roof is built over a frame of rafters or prefabricated trusses. Flashing, a type of trim, is installed along the joints and penetrations of a roof to prevent leakage. Visit Our Website to learn more.
Unlike asphalt and metal, man-made materials, natural materials like clay tiles or wood shakes come from naturally occurring materials. These roofing materials are eco-friendly because they don’t release any chemicals into the environment either during production or once they’re applied to a roof system. They also don’t pollute groundwater or nearby bodies of water such as lakes and rivers.
These natural materials are also a sustainable option because they’re renewable. They can last for decades, which cuts down on the number of times you have to re-roof your home and reduces your carbon footprint by lowering energy consumption. Plus, they’re fire-resistant, which can help protect your house during wildfires.
One downside of using a natural material is that it can be difficult to get these materials in your area. Manufacturers don’t keep large stockpiles of cedar shake shingles or slate tiles, so you might have to wait weeks or even months for the materials to arrive.
Another issue with natural materials is that they’re not as long-lasting as some other options. For example, a wood shingle or shake roof can last 60 years in drier conditions but only 20 to 30 years in damper climates. The longest-lasting natural roofing is slate, which can last for a century or more. But it is very expensive and heavy, so you’ll need to be prepared for the higher cost.
Clay Tiles
Clay roof tiles provide a distinct look that can elevate your home’s curb appeal. These roof tiles are available in a wide range of colors and styles. They are also durable, fire-resistant, and energy efficient. In fact, terra-cotta clay roofs absorb sunlight during the day and release it slowly at night, significantly cutting down on your energy costs.
Another benefit of clay tiles is their longevity. With lifespans that can exceed 100 years, they can offer a cost-effective alternative to other roofing materials. Their durability also helps them resist rot, insect damage, and weather extremes. This resistance is particularly important in California, where wildfires are a significant risk.
One drawback of clay tiles is their weight. They are significantly heavier than other roofing materials, requiring your roof to be structurally reinforced before you can have them installed. If you live in an area prone to earthquakes, this extra weight can pose a safety risk during seismic activity.
Additionally, clay tiles are difficult to work with and require the expertise of a professional roofer to install them. If you choose to hire a professional roofer, you should expect to pay more for labor than you would for other types of roofing. It’s also a good idea to have your roof inspected by an experienced roofer before deciding to use clay tiles. They will be able to ensure that your roof is capable of supporting their weight and can advise you on any structural modifications that may be required.
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are one of the most common roofing materials for a residential roof. They have an affordable material cost and come in four different types that each serve a specific function depending on the desired style and look of the home.
Asphalt used for shingles is an end-product of oil refining and must be “oxidized” by blowing air through it to increase its viscosity. This increases the shingle’s weather resistance and allows it to meet the standards for fire hazards. A mineral powder is also added to help the shingles resist UV rays and improve their longevity.
The outer surface of an asphalt shingle is typically coated with stone granules that add color and a protective layer from the elements. The shingles are also coated with a heat-activated sealant that helps them adhere to the roof and provide additional water resistance.
In addition to being able to withstand high winds and heavy rain, premium shingles are resistant to hail and can often be backed by a class of impact resistance rating that will lower your homeowners insurance. Erie Home is proud to offer a number of high-quality shingles that meet this criteria, which is an excellent way to protect your investment and ensure the safety of your loved ones and property.
The two standard design options for asphalt shingles are three-tab and architectural (also known as dimensional) shingles. Three-tab shingles have a repetitive appearance with three regularly spaced tabs, while architectural shingles feature two layers of shingle material bonded together to create a more dimensional appearance.
Metal Panels
Metal panels can add distinctive architectural effects to a building’s facade. They can also perform a vital function by protecting the structure from harsh weather and other environmental hazards. Preformed metal wall panels also offer design flexibility and are typically less expensive than other exterior walls such as tilt-up, precast or brick.
They are manufactured from coils of galvanized or galvalume steel, aluminum or tin and come in two types: Standing seam panels with hidden fasteners and exposed fastener panels. Standing seam panels have ribs that run vertically across the panel and are locked together with clips placed every 12 to 24 inches. These panels give a very clean and modern look to buildings. They are often used on commercial and industrial structures but can provide a rustic or industrial look to residential interiors.
Exposure fastener panels are thinner than standing seam panels with a corrugated profile to add strength to the thin metal and an overlap where panels connect. These panels are more economical than standing seam and can be installed faster due to a lower material weight.
Panels are available in a wide selection of shapes, textures and colors. Many are made from a galvalume steel substrate with Kynar paints that protect against fade and chalking. They can be manufactured in standard shades of gray or in custom colors that can help a new building stand out from its competition.
Flat Roofs
Flat roofs can be a stylish choice that complements a home’s unique form or adds space for a rooftop garden. However, they’re not suitable for homes in areas with heavy rain or snowfall, as the low-sloped design does not adequately protect against these conditions. Additionally, the lack of a gradient means that water pooling and leaks can easily occur on flat roofs.
In order to prevent these problems, flat roofs must be properly installed and maintained. Luckily, modern roofing systems have many options that provide long-lasting waterproofing and other benefits. For example, EPDM is a durable synthetic rubber that can be used in most climates. PVC, TPO, and modified bitumen are other single-ply roofing materials that offer superior resistance to weathering and other damage. Additionally, some roofing materials are designed to reflect sunlight and help lower a building’s energy costs.
Most single-family homes have slanted roofs, but apartment buildings and commercial structures often utilize flat roofs. This is because flat roofs are a cost-effective option for large-scale building construction and they can be used to create living or communal spaces such as rooftop gardens or terraces. In addition, flat roofs are easy to access for maintenance and repair work. However, they should be inspected at least twice a year to ensure that no leaks or other issues are occurring. If they do, it’s important to address them promptly to avoid structural damage and health risks due to mold spores.
Agable Roofs
Having two sloping sides that meet to form a triangular ridge, gable roofs provide a wealth of aesthetic and functional advantages. The angle of the sloping sides is known as the pitch, which determines how well the roof sheds rain and snow. This shedding reduces the stress on the roof structure and minimizes leaks and damage. The design of the sloping sides also allows for optimal ventilation and attic space.
Gable roofs work well with many different types of materials, and they are easy to construct. They are also relatively inexpensive compared to other roof styles, since they don’t require complicated framing. They can be crafted with asphalt shingles, metal sheets, concrete and clay tiles, or cedar shake, depending on the climate of the region. However, gable roofs aren’t ideal for areas prone to heavy winds or hurricanes since they can be susceptible to wind damage and structural collapse.
The sloping sides of a gable roof create eaves that shield walls from water, which helps keep interior spaces dry and comfortable. These eaves also protect windows and outdoor spaces from excessive sunlight, which is good for energy efficiency. Another benefit of a gable roof is that it allows for natural ventilation to flourish, since warm air rises. This can help regulate indoor temperatures and reduce the need for excessive artificial cooling, which contributes to cost savings. As a result, a well-designed gable roof promotes healthy living and adds value to the home’s overall design.
