Roofing isn’t the most exciting home project, but it can significantly increase your property value and protect against serious problems. Evansville Roofing will work with you to choose the right materials for your needs and architecture.
Check a roofer’s credentials and experience before hiring them. Ask about licensing, insurance, and testimonials.
When choosing roofing materials for a roof replacement or repair, many factors need to be taken into account. These include cost versus durability, climate suitability and maintenance requirements. The type of roofing materials used also impacts the overall appearance and value of the home. Metal roofing offers a sleek look that can enhance the aesthetics of a house, while wood shingles and shakes are more traditional options. Clay tiles add a distinctive style to a home and are available in a variety of colors and textures.
When it comes to preparing for a roofing project, it is essential to have the right work tools and safety equipment in place. Contractors and homeowners must also follow proper safety procedures to prevent injuries and property damage. Ensure that all workers wear protective workwear, including long pants, rubber gloves and a hard hat. These items will help protect the body from flying debris and sharp edges on materials like shingles.
Several types of roofing materials are available for both low- and steep-sloped roofs. Rolled roofing is the most economical choice and is ideal for flat or low-sloped roofs. It consists of long rolls of asphalt-impregnated and mineral granule-topped material. It is easy to install and provides effective protection from snow, rain and UV rays.
A wood shingle roof is a classic, rustic option that pairs well with historic-style homes and Craftsman cottages. Basic wood shingles are sawmilled for uniformity, while shakes are split into wedge-shaped pieces that provide a more natural and rugged look. Both types are durable and can be stained to match a home’s exterior color scheme.
Another popular option is a single-membrane system, such as EPDM or TPO membranes. These are ideal for flat or low-sloped rooftops and offer a wide range of benefits, including a high degree of water resistance, durability, and energy efficiency.
A newer option is a self-adhering residential roofing membrane, such as Liberty SBS. This provides multi-layer protection for flat or low-sloped roofs and complements shingle or built-up roof regions. Its flexible sheet offers a range of colors, and can be installed quickly and easily over existing shingles or underlayment.
Inspection
Once the roofing is in place, the roofers will conduct a final inspection. During this comprehensive assessment, they’ll ensure that every element of the new roofing system meets industry standards and homeowner expectations. They’ll also take this opportunity to address any issues or concerns that may have arisen during the installation process.
In addition to ensuring that the finished roof is up to par, the inspection process provides a valuable safety check. The roofing contractor will be looking for things like sagging or cracked siding, broken gutters or downspouts, damaged or missing shingles or other visible signs of wear and tear. If any issues are found, the roofing team will be able to make repairs or provide options for replacement.
Roofing professionals will also assess the roof decking (or sheathing) to make sure it’s in good condition and capable of supporting the new roofing materials. If necessary, this material will be replaced or a water barrier will be installed to prevent moisture damage from heavy rains. They’ll also look at the flashing on the roof – which is typically made of aluminum or galvanized steel – to ensure it’s in good condition. If it needs to be replaced, the roofers will install high-quality flashing that’s designed to keep water out.
Finally, the roofers will sweep the entire area to remove any debris that has landed in your yard or fallen into the dumpster, and they’ll clear away all of the tarps that were laid down earlier. They’ll also clean up any nails or remnants of the old roofing materials, and they’ll dispose of the scraps properly.
Installation
Whether you’re installing new shingles or re-roofing your home, the process of roofing installation requires careful attention to detail. You want your roof to provide protection, energy efficiency, and enhanced curb appeal for years to come.
After laying the underlayment, the roofer installs an adhesive starter strip to help protect the eaves from water intrusion. Then they start laying the shingles, overlapping each row and nailing them firmly to create a durable waterproof barrier. The contractor may add ridge vents for attic ventilation and gable end vents or curve vents for sewer ventilation. Finally, they will install flashing around chimneys, wood stove pipes, certain vents and along roof valleys to defend against leaks. They’ll also add ice and water sheathing in vulnerable areas of the roof.
Maintenance
A roof is a significant investment for any homeowner. Proper maintenance procedures will extend its lifespan and help to ensure its value and performance.
A roofing installation crew will typically use a daily checklist to document all activities and tasks performed. It also helps to identify problem areas early, making it easier to repair them and avoid long-term damage.
The first step in a roof’s maintenance is usually to examine the roof surface and make sure it is free of dirt, debris, leaves, or other foreign matter. The crew will also check the flashing and drip edges to see if they are still in good condition. In addition, they may re-caulk the seals around skylights, vents and chimneys to prevent leaks.
If a re-roofing project involves the removal of an existing roof, it is important to keep nearby plants and landscaping protected. A tarp or plastic sheeting should be placed over any movable items. It’s also a good idea to relocate any objects near the house that could be damaged by protruding nails.
Other roof maintenance procedures include examining the drains and gutters to ensure they are clear of debris and that water has an exit route during rainstorms and snowfalls. It’s also a good idea for homeowners to trim tree branches that hang over their roof. These can scratch or puncture flat roof surfaces and can cause damage to gutters and drains if they become clogged with leaves or debris.
Many roofing systems have an insulating or reflective property that will help to lower energy bills. These systems can be installed in the attic or under the roof as a barrier to keep heat from passing through the roof into the home. These technologies can be expensive, but they offer a long-term payoff in reduced heating and cooling costs.