Whether it’s a simple roof repair or a major roofing replacement, there are several factors that impact the success of the project. Your contractor must understand these factors before preparing your project’s scope of work.
Your building’s needs, location, and occupants will dictate the type of roof system you should install. For instance, a cold storage facility will have different needs than a retail shopping center.
1. Materials
Constructing a quality roofing system begins with selecting the appropriate materials. The right material can improve a home’s curb appeal, make it more energy-efficient, and protect it from harsh weather. In addition, choosing the right material can help you save money in the long run.
Slate is a popular choice, offering durability and a timeless appearance. However, it can be quite costly. It also requires a sturdy underlying structure to support it.
Steel is another common roof material. It is heavier than other types of roofing, but it can be very durable if it’s treated with an aluminum or aluminum-zinc alloy.
Other options for building owners include wood shakes, shingles and asphalt shingles. These residential roofing materials are generally cost-effective and offer good protection from wind and hail damage, but they don’t last as long as other types of roofing.
Polyisocyanurate (Polyiso) is a closed-cell, rigid foam board insulation that has become the product of choice for energy-aware architects, specifiers, builders and contractors because of its superior thermal performance. It can be used in a variety of commercial and residential buildings, including low-slope roofs and wall assemblies.
Thermoplastics: A number of thermoplastic single ply membranes have been manufactured and are available for use as roofing systems, such as thermoset polyvinyl chloride (PVC), blends or alloys of PVC and thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO). These membranes soften when heated, then harden at a specified temperature, and can be welded together to form a strong bond strength.
Thermoplastic single ply membranes can be installed in one of three standard attachment methods: mechanically attached, fully adhered or ballasted. They are also suitable for inverted membrane roof (PMR) configurations where XPS insulation is placed over the roofing system.
2. Installation
The roof is arguably one of the most important components of a home or commercial building. It protects occupants from rain, wind, and snow, while also adding aesthetic appeal to a property.
A quality roofing system is no small feat, and should be constructed by an experienced professional. In addition to the material, the contractor should also consider other factors such as proper ventilation and waterproofing.
Choosing the right roofing materials is important, but constructing a good roof can be an expensive venture, especially for a homeowner with a tight budget. However, investing in a high-quality roof can pay off in the long run.
Constructing a quality roof can make a big difference in your home’s overall comfort and energy efficiency, and it may even add value to the resale value of your property. For example, a roof with a low maintenance design and a high-quality material may save you from costly repairs down the road, and you’ll likely enjoy more consistent indoor temperatures year-round.
There are many considerations in constructing the best possible roofing system for your home or business, but the 5 most important include:
3. Ventilation
One of the most important considerations when constructing a quality roofing system is ventilation. Inadequate roof ventilation can lead to moisture damage, rust, mold, shingle deterioration and increased energy costs.
In addition, it can lead to a wide range of health problems including respiratory ailments and headaches. A properly ventilated roof can also help you avoid ice dam formation during the winter, which can damage your building structure and result in expensive repairs.
During the summer, a poorly ventilated roof can cause massive amounts of heat to build up, increasing your energy bills and causing your air conditioner to work harder. It can also lead to damage to wood, siding, paint and shingles by releasing hot moisture-filled air outside of the home.
If you suspect that your ventilation isn’t working as it should, contact a qualified contractor to complete an inspection. They can determine how much ventilation your roof requires and correct any discrepancies before it affects your home.
There are many different kinds of ventilation. Natural ventilation uses the prevailing winds to move air in and out of your house while mechanical ventilation works with a fan or a generator to push cool air in from the exterior.
A healthy home ventilation system also helps keep the indoor air temperature more stable by regulating the flow of air in and out of your home. In addition, it helps lower energy costs by allowing heat to escape and cooling air to enter.
A well-ventilated roof can extend the lifespan of your shingle by preventing extreme temperature shifts and moisture damage. In addition, it can prevent water leaks, rust and corrosion by ensuring that the inner surface of your roof is free from excess moisture.
4. Waterproofing
Waterproofing is a crucial aspect of every quality roofing system. It protects a building’s roof, foundation, interior and exterior walls from damage due to the effects of water, humidity and extreme weather conditions.
The construction industry uses a wide variety of waterproof membrane systems. These can include bituminous waterproofing, ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) rubber, hypalon, polyvinyl chloride and liquid roofing.
Another specialized area of waterproofing is rooftop decks and balconies. Waterproofing these areas requires a special understanding of expansion and contraction. Failed waterproof decks, either polymer or tile, are the number one cause of water damage in building structures and resulting personal injury.
Fortunately, there are several high-quality waterproofing products on the market today. These include Cosmofin, a PVC membrane with a central glass non-woven inlay.
Aside from protecting the rooftop structure, this product is extremely tear and puncture resistant. It is also very easy to install. You can easily request Mission Viejo roofing companies to waterproof your roof.
As a result, it can be a great option for many different types of buildings and applications. In addition, it is environmentally friendly and reusable.
If you’re considering waterproofing your roof, it is a good idea to consult with a specialist contractor about which options are best suited to your specific needs. This can help ensure that the installation is completed properly and the results are long-lasting.
Waterproofing is essential for protecting your structure against severe weather, and it can also add to the value of your home. The system will prevent moisture from seeping into your home, which can lead to problems like mold growth and deterioration of the materials in your living space.
5. Warranty
Choosing the right type of warranty to protect your roof is critical. There are many types, but the one that’s most important is a manufacturer’s warranty.
This is usually offered by the manufacturer of the actual roofing materials you’re purchasing. It can come in any length, from 25- to 50 years and is designed to protect against issues with the material you’re using on your roof.
However, there are some things that are not covered by these warranties. For example, weather damage, such as storms or hail, is not covered by these types of warranties.
There are also a few other conditions that can void your warranty, which you’ll want to be aware of before getting started. These include using multiple contractors to work on your roof, not maintaining your roof properly, and allowing water to pool.
The next thing to consider is whether you’re interested in a manufacturer’s warranty or a workmanship warranty. A manufacturer’s warranty will cover the material and installation, while a workmanship warranty is more likely to be transferable to the next owner of your property.
Both types of warranties can help to reduce the upfront cost of constructing a quality roofing system. They also help companies to save money by reducing their cost structure and improving the quality of the products they offer.
The warranty that’s right for you depends on your needs, budget, and lifestyle. It’s best to speak with your contractor and find out what type of warranty is the most beneficial for you. Once you’ve found the right one, you can rest easy knowing that your roof will be protected for the long haul. It’s also worth mentioning that having a warranty on your new roof will make it easier to sell your home in the future.
