What Is Roofing?
A roof isn’t just an aesthetic part of a home. It protects the inhabitants and their belongings from rain, snow, sunlight and extreme temperatures.
The structure of the roof depends on the type of roofing materials used and the architectural style of the home. It also depends on the city and jurisdiction’s building code.
Waterproof
Roof waterproofing is an extra layer that prevents water from seeping through the surface of your building. It is important because moisture can cause many problems including damage to the walls and support beams, which could be dangerous if it continues for too long.
There are a number of different waterproofing materials. Some are liquid, while others come in a roll or sheet form to be applied with a welding torch and adhered to the surface of your roof. These include bitumen-based membranes, ethylene propylene diene monomer EPDM rubber, hypalon, and polyvinyl chloride.
Besides being a protective barrier against the elements, waterproof coatings can also help reduce your energy costs. Most waterproofing coatings have reflective ingredients to help keep the sun's heat out, which can save you money on air conditioning in the summer. Additionally, waterproofing keeps the ambient temperature of your building steady, preventing extreme fluctuations that can weaken or warp the roof structure.
Insulation
Insulation is a material that stops transmission of heat, electricity or sound. It can be a fiberglass insulation used to insulate walls or a wire or cable insulator that prevents electricity conducting outside the wire or cable. Insulation also can prevent moisture from entering a structure or stopping the transfer of heat between structures.
Insulators can be made of many materials, including wood fibers, natural or synthetic fibers, and metal shingles. They are available in different densities to achieve varying R-values, or thermal resistance values.
Loose-fill insulation can be blown into enclosed cavities like walls or unenclosed spaces such as attics. The most common loose-fill insulating materials are cellulose, fiberglass, and mineral (rock or slag) wool. These are largely produced from recycled materials such as newsprint, glass, and post-industrial waste. Reflective insulation such as shiny aluminium foil-laminated paper or plastic, also known as wall wrap or sarking, is effective in resisting radiant heat and helps reduce condensation in winter. Structural insulated panels (SIPs) are prefabricated insulated structural elements that provide superior and uniform insulation to stud or stick frame construction, saving energy bills up to 12%.
Durability
Durability is a top consideration for homeowners when choosing roofing materials. No one wants to invest in a roof that will need to be replaced or repaired more often than necessary. Unfortunately, warranties are not a good indicator of the durability of a roofing material.
A popular choice is asphalt shingles, which are durable and effective in all climates. They last about 20 years before they need to be replaced, but they don’t do as well in high winds or heavy rains as other types of roofing.
Wood roofing displays classic, classy curb appeal and works well with cottage, Craftsman and Tudor-style homes. It’s available in shingle and shake styles made from redwood, pine and cedar. It can withstand fires and moisture but is costly, requiring extra framing and professional installation.
Metal is a durable option, especially when constructed from copper, zinc or aluminum alloys. It reflects the sun’s rays and keeps indoor temperatures stable, saving on energy costs.
Fort Smallwood Road Unit 2, Baltimore, MD
A roof isn’t just an aesthetic part of a home. It protects the inhabitants and their belongings from rain, snow, sunlight and extreme temperatures. The structure of the roof depends on the type of roofing materials used and the architectural style of the home. It also depends on the city and jurisdiction’s building code. Waterproof…