What You Should Know About Roofing Installation

Roofing installation is noisy, dusty and can cause damage to items inside your home. You can protect prized art pieces, plants and delicate decor by moving them temporarily during the process.

A layer of underlayment is installed, followed by shingles. Special flashing is placed around areas where the roof meets walls, chimneys and other protrusions to prevent leaks. For professional help, contact Glacier Roofing.

There are many different roofing materials that can protect the structure of a home and enhance its exterior style. The material chosen will depend on factors such as cost, lifespan and weather resistance. A professional roofing contractor can advise homeowners on the best materials for their homes.

The most common residential roofing material is asphalt shingles. These are made from fiberglass mats doused in asphalt and covered with granules. They are inexpensive, easy to install and have a long lifespan. They are also available in a range of colors to suit any taste.

Another option is a standing seam metal roof. These are fabricated from steel or aluminum with either a high-quality baked-on coating or mineral granules. The latter are an excellent choice for homes where appearance is important because they mimic traditional asphalt shingles, wooden shakes and even slate or clay tiles. They are highly durable and have an impressive life span of 30 to 50 years.

Other options include clay or concrete tiles, which offer elegance and durability. They can enhance Mediterranean, Mission or Southwestern styles of architecture and are non-combustible and energy efficient. However, they are expensive and heavy and require extra framing to support the weight of the tiles.

Single-ply membranes are another popular choice. EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer), for example, is a durable and water-resistant synthetic rubber that can be heat-welded. It also has good insulation properties and is highly reflective, which can lower a home’s energy costs.

Roll-formed metal roofs are another type of single-ply membrane. They are typically used on low-slope roofs and are available in a variety of pre-formed shapes and lengths. They are often used for sheds and garages, but can be used for the entire roof covering of a house.

Fiberglass insulation is another essential roofing material. It provides an effective barrier against air leaks, keeps the house cool in summer and warm in winter, and is fire-resistant. Roofing contractors can also install various types of ventilation systems, including ridge vents and soffit vents, to promote airflow and prevent moisture buildup in the attic space.

Preparation

As anyone who has replaced a roof knows, the process is labor intensive. You will need to invest in several tools and supplies, including a ladder, hammer, roofing caulk and gloves.

You should also prepare your home for the roofing process by removing any items that are vulnerable to damage or debris. For example, the vibrations created during the roofing process can shake or knock wall hangings and decorations off your walls. This can lead to broken dishes, mirrors and other fragile items. To prevent these mishaps, remove all hung wall decor ahead of time and store them in a safe location.

It’s also wise to protect any outdoor furniture, grills and other movable items. During the roofing process, these items can become covered in dust and shingle debris. To keep them protected, move these items into a shed or garage until the roofing process is completed.

Another important preparation is to mark or protect any sensitive plants around your home. You should mark any particularly delicate or expensive plants with orange tape, so that the roofers know to give them extra care when working on your roof. Also, mark any koi ponds and other hidden water features so that the roofers don’t accidentally step into them during the installation process.

You should also check your gutters for any clogs or other issues. Clogged gutters can cause problems during rainstorms by allowing water to seep into places it shouldn’t go. A professional roofer will inspect your gutters and replace any damaged parts before installing a new roof.

Lastly, you should trim any overhanging trees and bushes that are close to your home. These can interfere with the roofing process and pose safety risks for workers and neighbors. In addition, these overhanging branches can become flyaway during the roofing process and harm your newly installed shingles.

The last preparatory item is to make sure that you have a safe place for pets and children to stay during the roofing process. The noise and commotion from the hammers, nail guns and other roofing equipment can be stressful for animals and young children. You should plan for them to be out of the house during the re-roofing process or arrange for them to visit friends or family members for the duration of the project.

Installation

Roofing professionals will install the flashing, drip edge and shingles, making sure that they follow the manufacturer’s guidelines. They will use roofing caulk to seal the raw edges of each new shingle, and they’ll apply a starter strip that provides an adhesive barrier designed to defend your home against water intrusion. A piece of kickout flashing will be installed to bridge the gap between where step flashing ends and the gutter begins, directing rainwater away from the wall. The roofing crew will clean up the debris and inspect your roof to ensure adherence to building codes, safety requirements and an attractive appearance.

Roofing is a dangerous job, so you’ll want to hire a professional to avoid injury. Roofing equipment and tools include ladders, hammers, nail guns, gloves, shingle cutters and hard hats.

Maintenance

After a new roof is installed, it is important to follow maintenance procedures to extend its life. Regular inspections and cleaning will prevent small problems from escalating into major issues. A trained roofing professional can recognize deterioration and recommend repair methods.

Some of the most common maintenance tasks include checking for loose shingles, flashing, and gutters that are clogged or damaged. It is also a good idea to trim overhanging branches that can damage the roof, and clear away fallen debris. Keeping up with these simple maintenance tasks can help prevent water damage to the interior of a building, mold and mildew, drips and leaks, and discolored ceilings.

Inspecting and cleaning stairways, crossovers, platforms, and railings is also important for safety. These can become slippery or unstable, especially if they are covered in dirt and debris. It is also necessary to check that the equipment and pipes located on the roof are secure, and that there is no accumulated corrosion or rust.

Leaks are often caused by flashings, and a detailed inspection should be made to identify areas of concern. A thorough examination should be made at skylights, perimeter walls, penetrations, drains, equipment curbs, and the field of the roof.

Many roofing materials come with a warranty, and it is important to understand the details of this warranty. It can provide peace of mind to know that your investment is protected, and it will be easier to maintain the warranty if the roof is properly maintained. Regular inspections and repairs will keep the warranty in effect, and a well-maintained roof can last for decades. Having a reliable and experienced roofing company as your partner can help you ensure the longevity of your roof.