Roofing installation is a complex process that requires specialized knowledge and expertise. Whether you’re building a new home or replacing an existing roof, understanding the process can help you manage expectations and ensure that the job is done right.
Safety prep is also essential, as roof work can be dangerous. Make sure you have a harness and rope handy to prevent serious injury in the event of a fall. Contact Roofing Montana for professional help.
A roof protects a home from wind, rain, snow and extreme temperatures. It also keeps moisture from seeping into the house and encouraging mold, rot and other structural problems. It’s a big investment, but a new or updated roof can increase your home’s resale value and make it safer for you and your family to live in.
The material you choose for your roofing will have a huge impact on its cost and life span. You’ll want to consider your local weather patterns, fire codes and building standards when choosing a roof covering.
Natural wood shingles and shakes are popular options for homeowners looking for an earthy, rugged look. They’re generally more expensive than shingle options, but they’re long-lasting and durable. Shakes are split into wedges and have a rougher texture than shingles, which are sawmilled to a uniform length, width and thickness.
Slate is a luxurious choice, but it’s heavy and requires special framing during installation. Slate has a beautiful color and can withstand harsh weather conditions. Synthetic slate shingles have the beauty of slate but weigh less and are more affordable than natural slate.
Asphalt shingles are affordable, long-lasting and resistant to extreme heat and cold. They come in many colors and styles to complement any home.
Concrete and clay tiles add a touch of elegance to your roof. They’re a non-combustible, energy efficient option with a lifespan of 50 years or more. They’re often used on Mediterranean and Southwestern-style homes.
Metal roofing is a durable option that’s available in a wide range of styles. It’s usually installed over a sturdy sheathing made of plywood or OSB. It’s available with insulation to reduce your heating and cooling costs.
Leak barriers are important for protecting your roof in vulnerable areas like eaves, valleys and around penetrations. A GAF WeatherWatch mineral-surfaced leak barrier is a good choice for your roof because it helps prevent damage from ice dams and wind-driven rain. Many insurers will lower your homeowner’s policy premium when you have a GAF leak barrier installed. Other waterproofing products you can ask your roofing contractor about include rubber membranes and high-density spray polyurethane foam.
Preparation
A roof is an important element of a building that protects the structure and its contents from wind, rain, hail, snow and other harsh weather elements. However, in order for the roof to be effective it must be installed properly. Roofing installation is typically done by professional roofing contractors who have the knowledge, skills and equipment to do the job correctly. Before any work begins, the contractor should thoroughly inspect the existing roof to make sure it is in good condition and can support the new materials.
If the contractor notices any damage or problems, they should repair them before beginning the roof installation. This will help to prevent leaks and other issues that might arise during the project. Before the contractor begins, they should also clear the attic and remove any items stored in it. This will help to prevent damage from hammers and nail guns that might fall off the roof and into the attic during the project. It is also a good idea to clear out any boxes or other items that might be in the attic so that the workers can get around them more easily.
During the roofing process, there will be a lot of dust and noise. This can be disruptive to people who live in the house, especially those who are sensitive to these things. In addition, if there are children or pets in the home, they will need to be kept away from the construction area. This will help to ensure their safety and prevent them from getting upset during the roof installation. It may be a good idea to have them stay with friends or family members during the process.
Before the roofers begin working, it is a good idea to clear out any outdoor furniture and other items from around the house. This will help to prevent them from tripping over items or being injured by falling debris. Ideally, there should be at least a 15-foot clearance around the house to allow the roofers to access it safely.
Finally, it is a good idea to mark or protect any plants and flowers that are particularly delicate or expensive. This will help to ensure that they are not damaged by shingles or other debris that might fall from the roof.
Installation
Whether you’re constructing a new building or replacing an existing roof, the installation process involves carefully placing roofing materials to create a weatherproof and durable covering for the structure. It’s a complex job that requires the knowledge and expertise of professional roofing contractors to ensure the results are successful.
Once the underlayment is in place, the roofers will begin laying the new shingles. They start at the eaves and work their way up, overlapping each row and nailing them securely in place. They use a pattern of close nails along the edge and spread out nails towards the middle, which helps to defend against leaks. The roofers will also add vents as needed, such as curved vents for sewer ventilation or flat vents to ventilate bathrooms and kitchen ranges.
Next, the roofers will install drip edges and valley flashing to protect the eaves and the slopes of the roof from water damage. They’ll also install flashing around any chimneys, wood stove pipes, or vents and along the ridge of the roof to prevent water from seeping in at these vulnerable points. Finally, they’ll apply a bead of roofing cement to seal the shingle seams.
Maintenance
A roof is one of the most vulnerable areas of a building, so regular maintenance and inspections are necessary to keep it in good condition. These tasks can be as simple as trimming tree branches to prevent them from overhanging the roof, inspecting the flashing around chimneys and where roofing planes meet to ensure there are no leaks, and ensuring gutters and downspouts are clear of debris. Leaky roofs, which are often the result of damaged shingles or worn flashing, should be addressed promptly to avoid rot and other serious issues.
The best way to ensure your new roof is properly installed is to hire a professional contractor who has the experience and knowledge required to provide an effective and durable covering for your building. Your chosen roofing contractor should be credentialed by the manufacturer of your chosen roof product, and he or she should have local references, state licensing and insurance, and an active BBB rating.
Before the contractors arrive, cover any plants and other movable items with large tarps to protect them from falling shingle debris. Also, plan ahead for the job by deciding where to place the rolloff dumpster and covering that area with plastic sheeting. This will help keep any shingles that fall from the old roof from blowing into and damaging your home, and it can speed up the process by allowing the crew to throw a great deal of the old shingles directly into the dumpster. Lastly, have the contractor set up the dumpster as close to your house as possible for convenience and cost efficiency.