Almost every structure needs a roof over it to shelter people and their possessions from rain, snow, sunlight and extremes of temperature. A person who specializes in roof construction is known as a roofer.
Roofs are constructed from a variety of materials and in many different ways. They are typically made to be durable, attractive and channel water away from the structure. Contact Montana Roofing now!
Asphalt shingles are the most common roofing material used in homes today. They are durable and affordable, and they come in a variety of styles, colors, and textures that make them easy to match to any aesthetic. In addition, they are fire-resistant and low maintenance, making them an excellent choice for homeowners who want a roof that will protect their home from the elements.
There are three different types of asphalt shingles available to homeowners. The most basic is the strip shingle, also known as a three-tab shingle. This is the oldest basic shingle, and it has an appearance that is similar to a single-tab shingle but with cuts that form three individual tabs on the shingle. The next type of shingle is the architectural or laminated shingle. This shingle is thicker than the standard three-tab shingle and has multiple layers to give the shingles a dimensional appearance. The third type of shingle is the luxury or designer shingle. These shingles are a bit more expensive than the traditional architectural or three-tab shingle, but they offer an upgraded design that will help to enhance the curb appeal of your home.
When compared to other roofing materials, shingles are very affordable and easy to install. They are also very strong and able to hold up against heavy rains and winds. However, their lifespan is shorter than some other roofing materials, and they may be susceptible to damage in extreme weather conditions.
Another great feature of asphalt shingles is that they are energy-efficient, especially when they are installed with proper underlayment. The dark tones of the shingles reflect more of the sun’s heat, which reduces the surface temperature of your roof and allows your HVAC system to work less hard to keep your home comfortable.
Metal Roofs
Metal roofs provide durable and long-lasting protection for residential, commercial and industrial structures. Their sturdy construction and resistance to high winds, hail, marine air and fire make them a reliable choice in areas susceptible to hurricanes or tropical storms. Metal roofs also offer a number of energy-efficiency benefits. Their reflective properties help to reduce heat transfer, reducing the need for excessive air conditioning and lowering utility bills. Many are made from recycled materials and can be recycled at the end of their lifespan, making them a sustainable option for environmentally-conscious homeowners.
A common challenge associated with metal roofing is the potential for thermal expansion and contraction, resulting in loose fasteners, water infiltration, and mildew or mold growth. These issues, when not addressed promptly, can result in structural damage, leaks and costly repairs. By hiring a reputable contractor, performing periodic inspections and maintenance, and implementing energy-efficient solutions, property owners can mitigate these problems.
Metal roofs are available in a wide variety of colors, styles and finishes, allowing them to seamlessly complement any architectural aesthetic. They are able to withstand a number of weather conditions and have an expected lifespan of 40 to 50 years or more. Depending on the material used, most are highly recyclable, minimizing the impact on landfills. Those who opt for a steel or aluminum roof can enjoy additional peace of mind with their roofing investment by choosing to purchase a warranty from the manufacturer. Manufacturers such as Drexel Metals use a regional manufacturing program that eliminates many supply-chain delays. They fabricate panels on-site, avoiding issues that can arise from warehouse backlogs or damaged materials during shipment. This approach speeds up installation and provides building owners with an owner-transferable 35-Year Gold Standard Warranty that includes labor, adhesion, chalk and fade protection.
Clay Tiles
Clay tiles have been in use since antiquity and today are available in a variety of shapes, sizes and styles. Originally, they were fashioned by hand from malleable materials found in local soils. Today, they’re crafted using combinations of natural clays with different desirable qualities. They’re then extruded and trimmed into tile shapes before being put through a kiln-firing process that takes 14-20 hours. Compared to asphalt shingles, tile roofs are extremely durable and energy efficient. They also resist the formation of moss and mildew and offer excellent protection against rain-related damage and fire.
Clay tile roofs are incredibly common in the Southwest, and for good reason: They look beautiful and offer an authentic Spanish colonial feel. In addition, they’re heat-resistant and help keep a home cool in hot weather. They can be more expensive than other roofing options, but they’re durable and offer a long lifespan.
To help them last as long as possible, homeowners should have their roof inspected by a professional at least once a year. This can prevent small problems from becoming bigger ones, such as cracked or missing tiles. Also, a professional should inspect the roof for signs of moisture or other problems such as moss growth and mildew, as these are often the first indicators that a roof is in need of repair.
Clay tiles can crack or shatter if exposed to freeze/thaw cycles, so they’re best used in warmer climates. They also tend to shake on steep roofs, so they shouldn’t be used on roofs with slopes greater than 2 1/2:12 inches unless reinforced with a thick layer of underlayment. Cuts in the roof, like those for vents and chimneys, are handled with cast tiles that match the profile of the surrounding tile.
Built-Up Roofs
Built-up roofs, also known as BUR, are a time-tested roofing solution that’s used on flat or low-slope structures, especially in commercial and industrial settings. They provide reliable waterproofing, insulation, and fire resistance.
A BUR is a multi-layered roofing system that’s made up of alternating layers of reinforcing fabrics, bitumen (typically asphalt), and surfacing materials like gravel. It’s this layered approach that gives BUR its exceptional waterproofing capabilities.
BURs are installed over a roof deck, typically an existing one, which is then covered by a base sheet that’s sometimes coated with polyisocyanurate (polyiso) insulation to create a watertight seal. Then, a series of asphalt and fibrous ply sheet layers are applied, followed by a top layer of gravel and a protective coating.
The multiple asphalt and ply sheet layers in a built-up roof offer high thermal performance, helping to keep a building’s internal temperatures more stable and reduce energy consumption. They’re also highly durable, capable of withstanding decades of exposure to the elements.
As a result, BURs are well-suited for areas with heavy rainfall and/or where water ponding might occur.
Because they’re so durable, built-up roofs are often easier to repair than other types of roofs. However, it’s important to find a contractor who is experienced with working on this type of roofing.
BURs are a common choice for facilities that feature large retail spaces, warehouses, manufacturing buildings, and transportation hubs. Their layered construction and durability make them ideal for these high-traffic environments. They’re also a great fit for locations that require strong weather resilience, including high winds and snowfall. Want to learn more about the unique qualities of a built-up roof? Schedule a demo of Q Ware today to see how our powerful CMMS can help you make data-driven decisions about repairs, replacements, and overall roofing strategies.
Rolled Roofing
Roll roofing is an inexpensive and easy to install option for residential or commercial flat roofs. It is typically composed of a mineral surface that provides protection against moisture and the elements. It can also be a great option for non-occupied structures that require a temporary covering until a permanent or more durable roofing material is installed.
Unlike shingles, which are laid one at a time, rolled roofing comes in sheets of 100 feet or more that can be applied quickly and with minimal fuss. This can make it a good choice for homeowners who want to take on the project themselves rather than hire a professional.
Another advantage is that if the underlying structure is sound, a rolled roof may not need to be completely removed and replaced at the end of its lifespan. However, it is important to ensure the integrity of the roof deck and insulation before applying additional layers or changing the type of roofing.
The main drawbacks of rolled roofing include its short lifespan and limited aesthetic options. It is not a good fit for steep-sloped roofs and can be less aesthetically pleasing than shingles or other roofing materials. It also tends to have a lower resale value than other roofing options.
Another potential issue is that a rolled roof can be more susceptible to damage from foot traffic than other roofing options. Since the rolls are thin and not nailed down, they can tear easily, especially if people walk on them to perform maintenance or other tasks. It is also not ideal for structures where people will be regularly accessing the roof, such as barns or sheds. This can lead to leaks or structural issues over time.