A roof of a building constitutes a major part of its exterior sides. Therefore, it has to face the violent aspects of nature, like cyclones, hailstorms, heavy rainfall, and snowfall. So there is a high risk of damage to the roof surface, causing leakage that may hamper the safety and comfort of residents. House owners need to have all the home roofing info so that they can hire the best roofing contractor for repairing their roofs.
Primary components of the roof in a residential house
Shingles – The roof of a house is basically protected with rectangular tiles called shingles, which can be made of different materials. Varieties of wood, like cedar, pine, and redwood are used for making wooden shingles that render a rustic look though not suitable for humid weather. Asphalt is a common choice for roofing, which is easily available at cheap prices but need to install with fiberglass and lack insulating property. Concrete tiles make highly durable and energy-efficient roofs but needs to install within sturdier frames due to the heavyweight of concrete. Slate tiles are preferred due to their very high longevity, sturdiness, fire resistance, and several color options, like gray, black, purple, green, and red; though slate is quite expensive. Metal shingles or panels made of aluminum, steel, or copper are also used for roofing, as these lightweight metals can resist all adverse weather conditions and can be easily recycled.
Sheathing – The shingles of a roof are based on a solid layer called sheathing that may also act as a false roof when placed internally. The external sheathing beneath the shingles can be made of timber sheets, ceramic tiles, marble or gypsum tiles, or plywood boards that provide strength to the roof and prevent leakage.
Roof trim – The frame or trim for supporting the roof shingles is usually made of thick wood that is strong enough to hold heavy materials, like asphalt or concrete. However, metal shingles can be held at the place only by a strong metal frame. Old wooden frames need to be replaced if the boards are found to be rotten.
Underlayment – This is a paper-like felt material of various thicknesses placed over the wooden or plywood sheathing. As it is waterproof, it can protect the roof from the humidity caused by rainwater and snowfall. It is usually paired with a thin plastic sheet, to prevent the entry of atmospheric water vapor. Hence, it is always replaced while replacing other components of an old roof.
Flashing – A roof cannot be flat all through due to the presence of chimneys and walls, where roof shingles have joints on spaces rising upwards. These joints are tricky and need to be covered with metal pieces called flashing, to prevent leakages through there. These metals do not need replacement unless heavily rusted, even when all roof shingles are replaced.
Rafters are the narrow strips of wood or metal supporting the roof sheathing and shingles. Roofers also need to take care of drainage system that carries out the accumulated rainwater from the horizontal roof surface. Thus, house owners need to hire reputed roofing contractors who are aware of all the essential home roofing info for servicing their clients.
