Roof Installation is the process of putting in place all the components of your new roof system. This includes installing the shingles, flashing and drainage systems.
This is also the time to add plumbing vent stacks and HVAC openings/vents. Then you can install a roof window to brighten things up.
Roofing Materials
There are a wide range of roofing materials available for home improvement projects, each offering different benefits depending on the shape and location of a roof as well as its climate. For example, asphalt shingles are a popular option for residential roofs because they’re fairly inexpensive and have an average lifespan of up to 30 years. For commercial roofs, metal and EPDM are commonly used.
Choosing the right roofing material can be difficult because there are many factors to consider, such as cost, endurance and esthetics. We’ve rated each type of roof covering by its relative performance in these areas so you can find the best match for your needs.
The most expensive and long-lasting roofing material is slate, which can last up to 100 years or more. It also holds up against most weather conditions, including high winds, rain and hail, and is fire-resistant. However, slate is very heavy and demands additional framing during installation to support its weight.
Wood shingles are another popular roofing material that provides natural warmth and beauty. They can be stained, painted or left unfinished and are durable enough to stand up to most weather conditions, including snow. However, if you live in a region that gets lots of snow, you’ll need to add a layer of sheathing and a separate waterproof weather barrier beneath the wood shingles.
Corrugated galvanised iron or ‘corro’ is a cheap, durable roofing material that was the dominant choice for low-slope roofs in 20th century Australia, but it’s now replaced by steel with coloured alloy coatings that have greater durability and resist rusting.
Roofing Systems
There are several different types of roof systems that are available, each with their own pros and cons. The type of system you choose will be affected by your budget, your location (including the amount of exposure to high winds, extreme heat and cold, rain, hail, snow), and your preference for aesthetics.
Asphalt Shingles – The most common roofing material in residential construction, asphalt shingle roofs are available in a variety of styles, colors and thicknesses. They are easy to install and very affordable. A typical asphalt shingle roof is comprised of a base sheet, an interply sheet and a cap sheet. The sheets can be heat-welded together or adhered in cold adhesive, with some systems being self-adhering. Styrene Butadiene Styrene (SBS) modified bitumen membranes – Another common choice for commercial and industrial flat roofs, SBS is available in several sheet sizes and can be used in a variety of ways. This includes hot-mopped, torch applied and cold-applied systems.
Single-Ply Membranes
Single ply membranes are a fast-growing sector of the roofing industry. These thermoplastic and thermoset products are factory-fabricated in a single thickness, making them relatively easy to install on steep or complex roof slopes. They can be fully or partially adhered, with fully-adhered systems exhibiting the best performance (including wind uplift resistance and physical performance).
Insulation – Generally installed beneath or above the roof membrane, insulation serves a number of ancillary functions, including energy conservation and reduced heating and cooling costs. Insulation options include blown-in cellulose, extruded polystyrene (XPS) or polyisocyanurate, mineral wool and fiberglass.
Many of these systems can be designed to meet specific performance criteria, such as fire resistance or vapor retardation. It is important for designers to understand all of the options and their limitations so they can design a roof assembly that meets the project requirements. When in doubt, it is highly recommended that the designer consult with a professional roofing contractor or roof consultant.
Shingles
A roof isn’t complete without shingles to protect it from the elements. There are many shingle options available to homeowners and professionals. Choosing the right one depends on the climate of the region and specific roofing needs. For example, if your region is prone to hail, you’ll want to opt for a product with high impact resistance. If you live in a windy region, you’ll also want to choose a shingle with excellent wind resistance ratings.
Before you begin shingle installation, it’s a good idea to map out the layout of the shingles. This will ensure that your shingle courses are layered correctly and are nailed securely. It’s also helpful to use a template to mark where to cut the shingle, as this can help prevent errors and save time. When nailing the shingles, make sure that you’re hammering each nail straight. Each shingle should be secured with 4-6 nails. It’s also important to properly install flashing and other components of the roof, such as plumbing stacks and vents.
Once the field shingles are installed, it’s time to start working on the hip and ridge caps. These pieces are used to straddle the peak of the roof and shed water down both slopes. There are a number of different ridge cap shingles available, but the process for installing them is similar to that of the field shingles.
When choosing shingles, it’s important to consider the warranty and brand reputation. The more reputable the company, the more reliable their product. For example, CertainTeed shingles are considered to be among the best in the industry. They’re backed by a limited lifetime warranty, and the company offers training to contractors.
Tiles
Tiles are available in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors that can be combined to complement an array of home designs. These tiles can be made of either clay or concrete, and are commonly offered in glazed or unglazed finishes. Some are designed to mimic the look of wood shakes and are ideal for Craftsman, rustic, or log homes, while others are intended to emulate traditional European structures and can be used on Colonial, Tudor, and Victorian homes.
Roof tiles can be installed over sheathing or battens, and some types are designed to interlock with one another. This allows for more flexibility in installation and may reduce the need for additional roofing materials, such as felt or underlayment. When installing a tile roof, it’s important to ensure even spacing and proper overlap. This will prevent areas from becoming prone to leaks or other functional issues down the line.
To ensure this, it’s best to work with a professional during your roof installation project to avoid any costly mistakes that could lead to problems down the road. A good roofer will have the experience and knowledge to provide you with a high-quality tile installation that will last for years to come.
When working with tiles, it’s essential to wear safety equipment, such as a face mask and gloves, to avoid inhaling silica dust. Also, be sure to use a ladder or scaffolding that’s been evaluated for your weight and has safety rails in place. When using a drill, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for correct positioning to prevent damage to the tiles or the roof membrane. It’s also important to nail each row of tiles down, starting with the bottom row and then the top row. Using roof nails will help to prevent moisture from seeping under the tiles and causing water damage.
Roof Windows
Roof windows provide a great way to introduce natural light into rooms in the home that are either not suitable for regular-style windows or where it is impossible to install them. These windows allow sunlight to enter areas like attic rooms or dark corridors that are separated from the exterior walls of a home. This supplemental lighting can make these areas livable and increase the overall value of a property, especially if it is paired with a well-insulated and properly sealed attic.
There are a number of different options for roof window installation, with some offering additional features like motorized functions to open and close the windows or screen enclosures. The type of window you choose will also affect the price of the job. There are fixed roof windows that do not open and vented roof windows that open allowing ventilation to remove excess heat, moisture and odours from a room.
The difference between a skylight and roof window is that a skylight does not open, but a roof window can open with a pivoting awning style mechanism. These differences may be subtle to the average person, but for a professional roofer the terms can mean the difference between an energy efficient and non-energy efficient option for your home.
Both skylights and roof windows are a great addition to any home, especially if they are installed in an area that is not well-lit or for spaces that require additional natural light and air flow. They are an affordable option that will significantly increase a space’s livability and add to a property’s overall value. However, if you do decide to have them installed, it is best to work with an experienced contractor or carpenter to ensure that the job is done correctly and without leaks.
