The roof of a building/home protects it against rain, snow, sunlight and temperature extremes. Roofing is installing a new roof or replacing an existing one. Many homeowners consider reroofing when their roof is damaged. A full roof replacement can cost much more than replacing only the damaged areas. For roofing expertise, contact Roofing Columbus GA.
Roofing materials are designed to defend against rain, snow, direct sunlight and other exterior elements. They also help keep indoor temperatures stable and comfortable, reducing the use of heating or cooling systems.
The primary consideration when choosing a roof material is the climate in your area. Several other factors must be taken into account as well, such as the cost, life span and warranty for the roof. Some popular roofing materials include asphalt shingles, wood shakes and slate tiles.
Asphalt shingles are an affordable and versatile option for homeowners, primarily because they are durable and easy to install. They are available in a wide range of colors, styles and textures to complement almost any house. They are also made with organic materials such as fiberglass or cellulose to be environmentally friendly. Some shingle types are treated with an additional coating to enhance weather resistance and longevity.
Slate is another popular roofing material, offering a distinctive look that adds value to the home. It is quarried from natural rock and split into thin rectangular slabs that can be cut to different sizes and thicknesses. Slate is an energy efficient choice, retaining heat in cold climates and keeping it out during hot temperatures. It is a heavy material that may require specialized framing and can be difficult to repair.
Membrane roofs are an energy efficient alternative to traditional shingle and tile roofs. They are highly resistant to degradation caused by chemicals, ozone and ultraviolet radiation. They can be installed either as a loose laid or mechanically fastened, with seams sealed using heat welding or caulking. Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) membranes are an excellent roofing choice, because they are ozone and ultraviolet-resistant and offer good resistance to bacterial growth.
Built-up bituminous roofs consist of a base sheet attached to the sheathing, multiple layers of reinforcement felt ply sheets and a surfaced cap sheet. Coal tar and asphalt are used as the bitumen binding agents, with heated mopping bitumen applied as the surfacing agent. This system is ideal for flat or low-sloped roofs.
Maintenance
A roof is an important part of a building, protecting the structure from rain, snow, sunlight, wind and extremes of temperature. A roof can be made of a variety of materials and designed in many forms.
Roofing maintenance procedures should be based on a preventative approach, to avoid costly repairs and/or replacements in the future. Typically, this involves inspecting the roof to detect problems before they become serious and developing a system of periodic cleaning and maintenance.
This is usually accomplished by having trained building personnel perform routine roof inspections, preferably on a biannual basis. These are done to evaluate the condition of the roof membrane, to look for signs of environmental deterioration and damage and to make immediate repairs. The inspections should include a complete written survey of the findings.
Other maintenance items to consider are:
* Debris – Debris should be removed regularly to allow for proper drainage and to reduce structural loads on the roof. Frequently accumulated debris restricts drain lines, accelerates membrane deterioration and creates puncture hazards. * Foot Traffic – Continuous patterns of foot traffic on the roof cause erosion and premature membrane deterioration. They also cause areas of ponded water that may require immediate and permanent corrective action.
Foot traffic may also cause the loss of insulation material. It is a good practice to inspect for compressed insulation and replace it as necessary.
Repairs
When it comes to repairing a roof, there are several different things that need to be done. One is to replace the underlayment, which protects the shingles and other materials from water damage. Underlayment is usually made from plywood or oriented strand board (OSB). Another important repair is to replace the fascia and soffits, which support the gutters and help with ventilation. Finally, holes in the roof should be patched as soon as possible to prevent further damage.
When it comes to repairing a roof, roofing professionals will begin by assessing the condition of the existing shingles. This will include looking for shingle overlap, cracked or blown-off shingles. They will also check for the presence of water damage signs, such as damp stains or peeling paint. They will then make any necessary repairs to the underlying materials, such as replacing damaged or rotting deck boards. They will then install the new shingles. During this process, they will use tarps to protect foundation plantings and shrubbery from debris.
