Roofing Basics
Cedar Shakes
Cedar Shakes are wooden shingles that are derived from splitting the wood log. Typically, Cedar Shakes are preferred for their simple and beautiful look. They have been very popular in California or west coast architecture for many years and are often preferred to metal, asphalt, slate or shingle roofs. However, though Cedar Shakes look marvelous, they must be treated specifically for several concerns. First, they must be weather proofed, well maintained, and they must be treated with chemicals to ensure that they are fire proof.
Cedar has natural weather resistant properties making it an excellent roofing material. It is also a natural insect repellent, which makes it a popular choice in roofing materials. In addition to its natural resistance, Cedar Shakes are also commonly treated with chemicals that help increase its resistance to mold, mildew, fungus, and decay. One of the greatest enemies of Cedar Shakes is water. Though you may assume that since Cedar is a tree it would be naturally resilient towards water, Cedar Shakes must be treated to prevent them from deteriorating due to excess moisture. However, once the shakes are treated, you will find that they will last for a very long time and are a wonderful addition to your home.
Because Cedar Shakes can become extremely slippery when wet, it is best to leave all cleaning to a professional. You should also make certain that there are no low reaching tree branches hanging directly over your Cedar roof as this debris can lead to increased deterioration. You should arrange to have your roof inspected twice each year by a professional roofer and if you find that any of your shakes are cracked or warped, have them replaced immediately by the roofing contractor. It is best to replace damaged shakes as they occur then to try to repair them at a later time. Again, it is best to call a professional roofer to handle the repairs.
There are many types of roofs and it is always best to consult your local roofer to find out if cedar shakes would be the best roofing option for your home.
Chimney Caps
Chimney caps are a vital part of homeownership. Since water, debris and animals will make their way into your home through your chimney, it is important that you make certain your chimney is protected from these invaders. In order to make sure that your home is safe, you should have your chimney inspected regularly, preferably once a year. In addition to the inspection, you should hire a professional to make certain that your chimney is clean. A chimney that is full of debris will not only attract pests, but is also a fire hazard. Regular maintenance and keeping the chimney covered with chimney caps is the best way to ensure that your home is kept in great working order.
Signs that your chimney may need to be cleaned include having smoke fill your fireplace, the presence of animals and pests, and excessive water coming through the chimney. All of these have their negative potentials, but excess water can cause serious damage to your roof and home. It is important that you keep chimney caps on securely to protect yourself and your family from all harm.
When you have your chimney inspected, you may find that the best course of action is to have a professional install the chimney cap for you. This will protect you from needing to climb on top of your roof and ensures that the cap is assembled and installed correctly. A professional will also make sure that your chimney is clean and in proper working order.
You’ll also be pleased to learn that when it comes to selecting chimney caps, there are many options available. First, chimney caps may be crafted out of copper or galvanized/stainless steel. These metals are very durable and help ensure that you will enjoy the benefits of your fireplace while ensuring that the décor and style of your home is enhanced.
Although most chimney contractors can install chimney caps, it is also very common for a local roofer to offer this service while they are inspecting, repairing or replacing your roof.
Downspouts
Keeping rain and snow off of your roof is one of the most important steps that you can take to preserve your roof. A system designed with gutters and downspouts are a vital component to your home roofing maintenance system. Downspouts are located typically in the corners of your home and are used to carry the water away from the roof via the gutters. It is very important to make certain that both gutters and downspouts remain free of leaves, debris or any other matter that may block the free flow of water. Water damage is a serious threat to your home and can cause deterioration in the roof as well as your basement. Having your home inspected by a professional roofer several times each year can help alert you to any potential problems that you may have with your gutters or downspouts.
If your downspouts need to be repaired or if you need extensions, you may find that it is best to contact a professional roofer for the repairs. Local roofers are equipped and prepared for making any necessary adjustments or replacements on your roof and it is much safer to leave this work to an experienced roofing contractor than to attempt the work yourself.
Some signs that you need to have your downspouts replaced may include excessive water dripping from the downspouts as well as a build-up of materials in the gutters and downspouts. The best way to make sure that your roof is working properly is to have it inspected by an experienced roofer. However, if you see signs of damage, do not hesitate to call the roofer immediately. When it comes to roofing problems, time is of the essence. It is much better to fix a small problem right away then to put it off until it becomes a serious and expensive project to repair.
Flashing
A very important aspect of roofing is flashing. Flashing can best be described as material that is used to cover and protect joints and angles from damage. On a roof, flashing is typically located where the roof may meet the chimney or a wall and can be found along eaves, rakes, and ridges. Flashing serves to protect the roof from water damage or leaks. The flashing is installed over various intersecting points and is a vital part in keeping your roof free from damage.
When you hire a roofing contractor, it is important to discuss what type of material they will use for the flashings. It is important that flashing is made out of material that is weather resistant and will provide the best protection against water and ice. Today, a very popular flashing material choice is copper. Copper flashing is typically more expensive than other types but it is extremely durable. In addition to copper flashing, you may want to discuss other options such as aluminum or galvanized steel with your roofer as well. These materials are less expensive than copper but are not as durable.
A good sign that your roof flashing needs repair is if your roof leaks. There can be a number of reasons why you may have a leak, but you should always have the flashing checked regularly. When the flashing is inspected, it should be checked to ensure that all nails are holding the flashing tight and that none of the flashing has come loose. You may also need to determine whether or not the existing flashing needs to be repaired or replaced. Sometimes having the roofer simply repair the flashing may solve your roofing problems. Other times you may need to replace large amounts of flashing to preserve your roof. It is best to let a professional roofer determine the best course of action for your roofing needs
Gutters
Gutters play a very important role in your roofing system. If you didn’t have gutters, water would continually run alongside your home causing great damage and deterioration. Gutters and downspouts work together to ensure that your roofing system is working to the best of its ability. It is important to make sure that your gutters are in proper working order and free from debris or anything that could cause water to clog up and not flow freely. Because of this, it is very important to make sure that gutters stay clean.
The best way to make certain that your gutters stay clean is to hire a roofing contractor and have them professionally cleaned on a seasonal basis. It is important to make sure that they are cleaned during the fall months as well as in the springtime. It is best to let a professional handle cleaning gutters for the primary safety concern involved. Professionals are trained in handling aspects involving roofs and they also have equipment that makes cleaning gutters easy. Homeowners simply do not have the same resources available to ensure that they are maintaining their gutters and downspouts as effectively as a professional can.
If your gutters need to be replaced, it is best to discuss your options with a professional roofer. If you are in the process of replacing your roof, it is a good idea to also explore your options in regards to the gutter system currently in place. If you need to upgrade, repair or replace your gutter system, it is best to do it at the same time that you are having your roof done.
There are many new materials on the market that offer a wide variety of choices for those looking for new gutters. A very popular choice is copper. Copper gutters are extremely durable, however, they must be treated or else they will become green. In addition to copper, there are also PVC, Aluminum, and Galvanized gutters to choose from. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages. Discussing your home’s roofing needs with your roofing contractor is the best way to ensure that you choose the materials best for your situation.
Metal Roofs
Before you decide whether or not a metal roof is best for your needs, you should consider both the advantages and disadvantages these roofs offer. One of the main advantages is the fact that metal roofs are very lightweight. Because they are light, they are easy to move and install. The lightweight also makes it a good choice for those who need to install roofing materials over existing materials. Metal is also a durable choice making it preferred over other types of materials. In fact, many people who have metal roofs installed professionally find that their roof will endure for many years, and often as long as the house lasts. Another major advantage provided by metal roofs is the fact that they withstand fire that comes from exterior sources. Fire Resistance Ratings are defined as Class A, Class B, and Class C. The majority of metal roofs are given Class A ratings, however, always double check with your roofing contractor regarding your roof’s fire resistance rating. Metal roofs also help retain energy and heat, saving you money on energy bills. Since safety is the primary concern when considering roofing materials, it is easily understandable why many people prefer metal roofs to others.
Many people also choose metal roofs over other materials simply because there is a wide variety of styles, colors, and sizes to choose from. Metal roofs are a great way to ensure that your roof looks great and matches the exterior décor of your home.
Some of the disadvantages that are associated with metal roofs include high cost and noise. Metal roofs cost more than other roofs, especially if you select copper roofs. Therefore, it is imperative to make certain that your budget allows for the type of metal roof that you prefer. However, this has a hidden benefit. Because metal roofs are worth more, they will increase the property value of your home. The last disadvantage to consider is noise. If you choose a metal roof, you must discuss your options with your contractor regarding noise prevention. Typically, the contractor will install the metal roof over plywood to ensure that it is sound proof.
Pressure Cleaning
The idea of pressure cleaning a roof appeals to many homeowners, however, there must be caution used when pressure cleaning. First, it is best to hire a professional to handle pressure cleaning since there is a good chance that you could damage your roof if it is not done correctly. Professionals understand the delicate nature involved and will use the right amount of pressure necessary to clean your roof thoroughly without damaging it.
Many times people replace shingles that could easily be cleaned by a professional using low pressure cleaning techniques. However, it is the job of a professional to assess the condition of your roof and determine whether or not your roof could benefit from pressure cleaning. Homeowners are often pleased to discover that their roofing shingles will not need to be replaced but can be restored with cleaning. Yet, when many homeowners try to tackle these jobs themselves, they cause damage to the shingles by using too much pressure and end up needing to replace the roof in the end. It is best to have a professional give you an estimate regarding your project and determining whether or not pressure cleaning is right for your roof.
Pressure cleaning offers a number of benefits for roofs. First, it is a great way to remove dirt and grime from the roof, but it is also a powerful way to remove algae, fungus, and mold. Homeowners are often amazed at the difference between the before and after results of their roof after a powerful pressure cleaning treatment. It isn’t uncommon for roofs to look a different color after cleaning and shingles are left streak free and without mold or algae. Removing these hazards is an important element in ensuring the longevity of your roof and can be an integral part of your preventive roofing maintenance plan. These bacteria and organism literally feed on your roof and can cause serious deterioration to your roof. It is important to have your roof inspected regularly and cleaned to make certain that your roof is not left vulnerable to these attacks.
Rafters
Rafters are the wood beams that exist under your roof. They are the main support of the roof and are a vital part of your roofing system. One of the main functions your roof has is to protect the home from the outside elements and leaks. If your roof is leaking it is important to have the rafters inspected. You can see the rafters by looking at the top of your attic. If you have a leak, you will notice dark spots or stains on the rafters. You should also check the roof and see if there are any spots that have light shining through. These spots are indications that your roof is damaged and needs repair. Some other factors to consider are whether or not the sheathing or decking underneath the rafters appears to be damaged or sagging. Any signs of leaks or damage to the rafters will need to be repaired by an experienced roofer immediately.
Sometimes rafters break and need to be replaced. Though many homeowners may like to handle these jobs themselves, it is important to contract a professional who is familiar with the best materials to use to repair and replace rafters. Since most rafters are made from wood, professionals often have equipment available that they may use to repair the wood and protect it from rotting or decaying. Other times the wood that was used for the original roof may be so old that it is best to replace the rafters with new trusses. A professional and experienced roofer is qualified to observe the situation and determine the best course of action for your roofing needs.
One of the best steps to ensure proper roof maintenance is to have your roof inspected seasonally, preferably twice a year. It is important that the attic is also inspected due to the fact that you cannot observe the condition of the rafters from the outside. This is also important if you are considering purchasing a home. Always check the condition of the rafters and realize that if you see damages, stains, or stress cracks, the rafters will need to be repaired or replaced.
Roof Coatings
If you have a flat roof, roof coatings help ensure that you are maximizing the most potential from your roof. Coatings are typically used to help make certain that your roof is waterproof, but today’s choice of roof coatings offers much more. Now, roof coatings can help deflect the rays of the sun and reduce cooling costs greatly. Using a roof coating can delay the need for replacing your roof and is much easier to install as well. If you are in need of roof repairs, you may want to consider contacting a professional roofing contractor and inquiring about a roof coating estimate.
Homeowners have found that if their roof qualifies for a coating, that the cost of the coating is much less than it would be to replace the roof. Therefore, it is always a good idea to find out if this is an option before choosing to have your roof replaced. Also, check with the roofer and find out what the warranty terms are that come with the roof coating. In addition to the roofer’s warranty, the coating may also come with a roofing manufacturer’s warranty so be sure to find out beforehand.
Roof coatings can also help repair and seal leaks that occur in the roof. Because the coatings are extremely durable, they tend to last for a long time, making the results near permanent. When considering roof coatings, it is a good idea to discuss how using roof coatings can be a part of your long-term preventive maintenance solution for your roofing needs.
If you are interested in choosing roof coatings that will help deflect the sun’s rays or help insulate your home, you should ask your local roofer about coatings that have the energy efficiency recommendation. These products have been tested and meet Federal guidelines and are a great addition to any roof maintenance system. You can identify these products as they will have the Energy Star trademark on their label. Be sure to discuss these guidelines with your roofing contractor so that you can choose the best coating for your roof.
Ridge Vents
Ventilation is a very important aspect of your roofing system. Without adequate ventilation, the moisture that accumulates in your home can rise to the attic and cause damage to your roofing system. Many people consider the effects that external moisture has on their roof, but very few think about the internal moisture and its effects. Moisture such as rain, ice, and sleet are commonly considered when choosing roofs but not enough attention is placed on the ventilation system and ensuring that internal moisture has an adequate way to evaporate and not cause damage to the roof, shingles, rafters, or sheathing.
Ridge vents work by allowing air to blow through the vents, which in turn, draws out the moisture that has risen to the attic. This is referred to as a balanced ventilation system and is vitally important to the maintenance and well being of the roofing system. The ridge vent is installed along the top of the roof and is best when installed with an underlying venting system. To ensure that your roof will be best served with ridge vents, it is best to have an estimate provided by a professional roofing contractor. The roofer can let you know if your roof is a good match for ridge vents. Some roofs are extremely steep and may need additional ventilation to ensure good balance.
Some of the major benefits of ridge vents include the fact that this ventilation system will work throughout all of the seasons, year round, is not affected by the direction that the wind is blowing, and has an appealing look to your home. It is best to hire a professional roofer who can give you an estimate as to the cost of the finished project and who is prepared to handle the roofing job for you. If you have cathedral or vaulted ceilings, the roofing contractor may need to install a ventilation system for the attic joists as well.
Rubber roofs
Rubber roofs have become increasingly more popular over the years, especially for flat roofs. As a low maintenance, durable, and energy efficient roofing material, it isn’t surprising that people are choosing to use rubber for their roofing needs. Many people are choosing rubber roofing materials due to the fact that they are environmentally friendly and help reduce energy costs. Rubber roofs are lightweight, durable, and are able to withstand the elements of nature much better than their traditional wooden counterparts.
Since rubber roofing is still a fairly new technology, it is a good idea to make certain that the roofing contractor that you hire is experienced with the installation and maintenance involved with these roofs. Once you have your rubber roof installed, you will need to make sure that you have regular yearly inspections on your roof. This is the best way to ensure that you take care of any minor problems as they occur and can greatly prolong the longevity of your roof. Many rubber roofs need to be coated about a year after they are installed to ensure the roof’s longevity and then coated every couple years thereafter.
Some of the most prevalent benefits of using rubber roofing include the fact that rubber is extremely pliable and flexible. This enables it to expand and contract with fluctuations in the weather without harming the roof. Splits and cracks are not common with rubber roofs, giving them a great advantage over other roofing materials.
In addition to having rubber roofs inspected, they also need to be cleaned regularly. Twice per year is a good schedule and cleaning will help keep the roof durable and long-lasting. It’s important to realize that if your rubber roof has a manufacturer’s warranty, regular cleaning and coating may be a requirement that you must perform to keep the warranty active. Make sure to ask your roofer any questions that you may have regarding cleaning and maintaining the roof. Sometimes, using the wrong products on your rubber roof can cancel or void the warranty so be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Sheathing
Sheathing can best be described as a protective covering or layer for your roof. Sheathing materials are used to protect the rafters from decay. There are a number of different materials that may be used for sheathing purposes but typically plywood is used. This is due to the fact that wood makes an excellent insulator and is very inexpensive. Tongue and Groove is another type of commonly used sheathing. It is important to realize that sheathing is an important part of your roofing system and you should have sheathing included in your seasonal roofing inspections to ensure that they are in proper working order.
If you see signs of sheathing decay, you will need to contact a local roofing contractor right away. Deterioration of the sheathing will lead to greater problems and you may already be experiencing leaking. You can visually inspect the sheathing yourself by looking in your attic. If you notice any dark or wet spots on the sheathing then you have a leak. Also, if you are checking the sheathing and notice that you can see pinholes of light through the roof, you will need to notify the roofer and have these repaired.
Sheathing not only supports and protects the rafters, but it is also the basis for the underlayment. Therefore, it is imperative that all sheathing is built according to code and remains in good condition. Hiring a professional and experienced roofer to install the sheathing is the best way to ensure that the sheathing is spaced at a distance that will provide ample support and prevent sagging or springiness. If there is a problem with the sheathing, you will find that this will affect the ventilation system and over all structure of the roof. To ensure that your roofing system is properly maintained, make certain that the roofing contractor who performs the inspections submits a written detailed report of their findings. This is the best resource that you have to stay current with any needed repairs that your roof may require.
Shingles
Shingles are used to cover a roof and they are a very important aspect of your roof’s maintenance system. Shingles are often the first line of defense that your roof has against extreme weather conditions such as ice, snow, water, sleet, hail, and wind. It is important to maintain the condition of your shingles and replace missing shingles quickly to ensure the longevity of your entire roofing system. Missing shingles can cause your roof to leak and lead to further damage. It is always best to hire a professional roofer to install the shingles as well as answer any questions that you may have regarding the best type of shingles for your roof.
There are several types of roofing shingles that homeowners may select from. Some of the most popular choices include: asphalt shingles, fiberglass shingles, organic shingles, and wood shingles. Additionally, it is very important to reinforce shingles to ensure that they are stable and will withstand great wind pressure changes as well as fluctuations with the weather. Asphalt shingles are a very popular choice due to the fact that they are versatile and inexpensive. In fact, the majority of homeowners use asphalt shingles, though there are many different choices available today. There are two types of asphalt shingles; these are fiberglass and organic shingles. Fiberglass shingles are built upon a mat or core layer of fiberglass. This core is what makes fiberglass shingles different from organic shingles. Organic shingles are made with an organic core. The core is made from recycled fiber such as wood or paper.
Since the older homes typically have wood shingles, it is very common for these shingles to need repair. Many times, these shingles may be between twenty to forty years old. Some signs that wood shingles may need to be replaced include leaks, cracks, or other signs of damage to the shingles or if the shingles are curled or show signs of breakage. If you have damaged shingles, it is best to call a professional roofer and have them repaired immediately.
Skylights
Skylights are a wonderful addition to any home. However, when it comes to roofing, it is important to make sure that skylights are installed correctly to prevent any leaks or damage to the roof. It is very important that proper installation techniques are used to make certain that they are working at optimum level. The best way to prevent any errors from occurring is to hire a professional roofer for the installation. Skylights are usually installed at the undermost layer of the roofing surface and an experienced roofing contractor can ensure that they are installed tightly to prevent any leaking from occurring. Additionally, the areas around skylights should be regularly inspected to ensure that no leaking is taking place. This should be performed at least twice per year.
It is important to discuss any concerns that you may have regarding the installation process with your local roofer. Many people are often concerned about the possibility of skylights becoming cloudy or foggy after installation. The roofer should be experienced working with skylights and should be able to assure you that condensation will not form on the inner panes of your skylights. It is a good idea to make sure that the skylights you choose to install have a manufacturer’s warranty against clouding or fogging.
There are a number of different skylights on the market and you should choose one that blocks UV rays from the sun. It is also important to consider the type of shades you will use to cover the skylights. If your skylights need to be repaired, you will need to contact a professional roofer. Some signs that your skylights are damaged include seeing cracks, if the shades fail to operate, if the surrounding area around the skylights are leaking or look damp, and if the skylight fails to operate. Contact a professional roofer immediately if your skylights fail to work or are in need of repair or replacement.
Slate roofs
As one of the premier roofing materials, slate roofs have a history of adding prestige and elegance to homes. Not only has slate been revered for its appearance, but it is also highly recommended due to the fact that slate roofs are extremely durable and weather resistant. However, it is important to regularly check slate roofs for any signs of damage, wear, or tear. If any of the slate needs to be repaired, it is imperative that you have a professional roofer fix those immediately. When slate becomes brittle, it can easily be replaced. In fact, when slate is properly maintained, it has a life span of nearly 100 years.
One of the things to consider about using slate is the fact that it is very expensive. Therefore, if you choose to install a slate roof or if your home already has slate boards, it is imperative that you invest the money, time, and care in maintenance and repair. A good preventative roofing maintenance plan is the best way to ensure that your slate roof remains durable and strong.
Since slate is expensive, it isn’t recommended that homeowners attempt to work on slate roofs themselves. It’s important to have the roof inspected regularly and to be on the look out for any signs of deterioration. Some of these include loose nails, deterioration of nails and slate boards that are slipping.
When hiring a roofing contractor to install or repair slate roofing, it is vitally important to hire a roofer that has proven experience working with slate. There are many roofing contractors who specialize in slate roofing and it is best to use an experienced roofer due to the high cost of slate. You should also make sure that the roofing contractor checks the condition of the wood under the slate and makes certain that it is solid. Often times, slate will withstand extreme conditions without damage, but the underlying wood may begin to deteriorate. This will need to be repaired if it is found to be damaged. Because the expense associated with slate roofing is high, you’ll find that you should only use qualified and experienced roofing professionals to ensure that your slate roof is maintained in a manner that increases its longevity.
Soffits
Moisture is the most damaging element to your roof and soffits exist to help ventilate moisture. Soffits run along the edge of a wall and meet at the roof. They are often fixed underneath the overhang of a roof as well. Soffits usually fill in the gap that is created between the side of the house and the eaves. They are an important part of the roofing ventilation system. Soffit vents are used in conjunction with ridge vents to ensure that the roof has enough ventilation to rid the home of excess moisture and condensation.
You should hire a professional roofer to handle the installation or repair of soffit vents. You should also make sure that the soffits match the paneling and overhang of your home and roof. There are a wide variety of soffit colors and styles to choose from and picking the best match for your home is simple. If the soffits need to be replaced, you should hire a professional roofing contractor as well. Though it may be tempting to consider tackling the project yourself, an experienced and qualified roofer will inspect the rafters and is able to determine if the soffits can be repaired or if they will need to be replaced. Usually, the roofing contractor will need to remove the soffits to observe the condition of the rafters underneath. This work can become quite dangerous so always hire an experienced roofer.
Since soffits are underneath the roof, it is easy for homeowners to neglect this area. This enables soffits to become damaged and continue to deteriorate for a long period of time while going unnoticed. It is a very important aspect of your preventive roofing maintenance system to have seasonal inspections of your roof that include inspecting the soffits. If you notice sagging boards, peeling pain, water stains, deterioration, or cracks, then you know that you should call a local roofing contractor and have the soffits repaired or replaced immediately.
Tile roofs
There are a number of different materials that homeowners may choose from when selecting tile roofs. The first area of concern should be your overall budget. You’ll find that tile roofs are versatile and durable and are a great roofing option. However, with all of that variety, there is a wide price range to choose from as well. When considering budget options for tile roofs, you should take into consideration the projected cost of maintenance and care to keep your roof in perfect order.
Some of the most popular tile roofs include clay tiles, cement, Spanish tile, steel, wood, aluminum, and slate. If you aren’t sure which tile is best for your project, let the roofing contractor know. They can show you many different samples and help you determine which roofing tile is best for your roofing needs. It is always good to choose tiles that will withstand the natural elements in your particular location. Also, make sure that the roofing contractor that you hire is experienced with that particular roofing material. Often homeowners simply choose a roofer and never think to ask if the roofing contractor has worked with that specific material before. You should dedicate about two hours to asking potential roofers any questions that you may have. Make certain that you feel comfortable with the roofer’s level of experience pertaining to your specific tile.
It is important to realize that just as important as the type of tile roof you select is the underlayment that you install before the roof. Tile roofs serve to keep your home safe and protected from the elements of nature. The underlayment is the supportive structure that keeps your roof waterproof. Your roofing contractor should have a deep understanding regarding the best underlayment needed for your specific tile type. Hiring a professional roofer with experience is the best way to ensure that your project is completed successfully. Always double check contractor’s references as well.
Trusses
Trusses are a very important aspect of roofing. They are the main structures that support the roof. They are typically manufactured beforehand and offer plenty of advantages for homeowners. First, trusses are very strong and can be built in a variety of shapes. They are inexpensive and can even be moved at a later time. However, since trusses are a main part of the roof’s structure, they must be repaired or replaced immediately if they become damaged.
Sheathing is joined to the trusses and then shingles are applied afterwards. If the trusses are bad, deteriorating or damaged, the entire roof is in jeopardy. Therefore, you should plan for regular inspections of your roof as well as the trusses to ensure that they are in stable condition. Sometimes, the roofing contractor will repair the trusses by joining it with another truss and, essentially, overlapping the two pieces of wood. Other times, they may need to reinforce the broken truss by replacing the damaged section of wood. Since trusses are such a critical piece of your roofing system, it is imperative that you have a professional roofer handle the job. If the problem is serious, the roofing contractor will rely on the opinion or advice of an engineer to determine how to best repair the damage. This is not a matter for a homeowner to attempt to repair on his or her own.
There are several reasons why trusses become damaged and need repair. The most common is due to extreme natural conditions. Hurricanes, earthquakes and heavy winds can cause great damage to roofing structures that the trusses become weakened. Excess moisture can also cause great deterioration to the trusses. Sometimes, the trusses simply wear out because the wood is old. Whatever the reason, damaged trusses are nothing to put off. They must be repaired immediately by a qualified roofer. Make sure that the roofing contractor that you hire is experienced working with trusses and has the proper qualifications to handle working on your roof.
Underlayment
The underlayment is a vitally important part of your roofing system. In between the roof and the sheathing, the underlayment is the layer that actually provides protection from moisture. Where the roof may make your home leak proof, the underlayment is what makes your roof waterproof. Underlayment choices, at one time, were optional, but today, they are required for homes and are regulated by laws and codes. Choosing the correct underlayment and maintaining its condition is a very important part of roof maintenance.
When you hire a roofer for your roofing needs, you will need to determine the best underlayment material for your roof. There are a lot of different materials used and your roofing contractor will be able to help you determine the best choice. There are felt, synthetic, and self-adhering type underlayments available to choose from.
Though there are different types to choose from, your roofing contractor may recommend a particular underlayment as the best choice for your roof. Many residents in areas that are prone to high winds and hurricanes are turning to synthetic underlayments. These underlayments have shown less damage to hurricanes and are quickly becoming the preferred material in certain regions. Your roofer is the best resource that you have when determining the best underlayment for your roofing needs.
One thing is certain, if your underlayment is damaged or in need of repair, you will need to have a roofing contractor repair it immediately. Underlayments are your first defense against leaks and excessive moisture and it is much easier to repair the underlayment then to deal with structural damage that is the result of accumulated moisture that has yet to have been repaired. It’s also important to realize that different underlayments cost different amounts. Therefore, not only should you choose underlayments based upon their structural components, but on their economical value as well.
Ventilation
Your roof keeps you safe from the natural elements. It keeps ice, snow, sleet, rain, and heavy winds out of your home. But just as keeping moisture from coming into your home is important, letting moisture out of your home is equally important. You may not realize it, but your home houses a lot of moisture. Air conditioners, humidity and moisture in the air are consistently rising and needs to escape through your home. This is where attic and roof ventilation comes into play. Moisture that accumulates in your home or on your roof must be properly ventilated. Without proper ventilation, mold, mildew, and fungus will grow and wood will rot.
Your roof ventilation system is composed of two parts: intake and exhaust vents. These vents allow air to flow in your roof and allow air to leave through the vents. This is the most important aspect of keeping your home’s moisture level at a healthy balance. If there is a problem with your ventilation system, your home is vulnerable to serious damage.
It is always best to hire a professional roofing contractor who can advise you on the best types of vents that are suitable for your home. Just as there are many different types of roofs, there are many different types of vents that are best suited for each roof. Your roofer will explain to you the different types of ventilation systems and help you choose the vents that are best for your needs.
You may need to hire a roofing contractor if you notice that you are not getting enough ventilation through the vents. If you don’t feel any ventilation at all, you may discover that your energy bills skyrocket and structural damage to your roof may occur as mold, mildew, and fungus will grow rapidly. Without proper ventilation, moisture will continue to wreak havoc on your roof. If there is a problem with your ventilation system, you must have it repaired immediately by an experienced roofer.