Residential roofing is an umbrella term for services related to structures designed to be lived in, primarily houses. There are a variety of materials that can be used for residential roofs, each with its benefits and drawbacks.
Most states require roofers to carry general liability insurance. Errors and omissions insurance (professional liability) may help pay for legal expenses or settlement costs if a customer sues over shoddy work.
Asphalt Shingles
An asphalt shingle is a wall or roof shingle waterproofed with asphalt.
Asphalt shingles are America’s most common roofing material in various colors and styles since they have a low initial cost and are simple to install. They are also among the most affordable roof coverings, making them a popular choice for homeowners. They are designed to protect homes for decades with minimal maintenance.
Shingles are made from a fiberglass or organic material base and then coated with protective granules. Manufacturers have also developed specialty shingle products that combat various issues, such as the growth of algae and enhanced resistance to damaging hail. Some shingle options are even designed to reflect heat from the sun, keeping your home cooler and saving you energy costs.
For a more sophisticated look, consider thicker architectural shingles than three-tab shingles and feature a layered appearance on your roof.
Metal
Residential metal roofing is gaining popularity among homeowners due to its longevity, fire resistance, and resale value. It is also environmentally friendly, with a high percentage of recycled content. Metal roofs can be made from a variety of materials. Each has its strengths and weaknesses and should be chosen based on the location of the build, the stresses, and strains placed on it, and how the roof is expected to perform over time.
Polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) is a higher-end option with superior fade resistance and gloss retention. Another common choice is silicone-modified polyester (SMP), which has an average life of 20 to 30 years.
Because of the labor-intensive nature of installing a metal roof, hiring a skilled professional like Roofing Solutions is essential. A professional can help you decide what type of metal is best for your home and ensure the proper installation techniques. They can also recommend the right paint for your roofing system to protect it from the elements. Whether you are using vinyl, copper, or steel, the professional you choose should have experience working with these different types of metal.
Tile
Tile roofs last longer than shingle roofing and offer more protection from sun exposure. They also resist water and are less prone to leaks. However, a faulty roof structure can cause tile roofs to deteriorate and fail faster than a shingle roof. Homeowners must get regular roofing inspections from licensed professionals. Inspecting for faulty underlayment is especially important. Poor underlayment can result in leaking, wood rot, and the need for repair or replacement long before a tile roof should fail.
A tile roof is not for the average homeowner and should only be installed by a qualified, experienced roofing contractor. The installation process is more complicated than other roofing materials and requires knowledge of tile handling and techniques different from common roofing practices. It is also a very heavy material that may require additional support for your home’s roof structure to accommodate the weight of a tile roof. Errors and omissions insurance protects the professional from lawsuits over shoddy work and is recommended for tile roofers.
Wood Shake
Wood shake is made of various materials, including western red cedar, cypress, and pine. They offer a rustic and natural aesthetic and are thicker than asphalt shingles. Shake roofs tend to last longer than shingle roofs.
The varying textures of different types of wood shakes give each one a distinct look. Heavy split shakes have the most rugged appearance, while resawn and taper-sawn shakes are more comparable to shingles in appearance.
While modern wood shakes are treated with fire retardant, they still pose a fire risk. This can impact your insurance coverage and limit the amount you receive from an insurance claim in case of a loss.
Wood shakes must be fastened using corrosion-resistant nails, with two fasteners per shingle. They are typically installed over spaced sheathing and should be overlaid with a strip of felt interlayment (installed up from the shake butt by a distance equal to the weather exposure). This prevents moisture from seeping between the shakes. Moisture retention can lead to mold and mildew growth, which leads to rot.
Other Materials
Roofing services can include installing various roof materials beyond asphalt shingles and metal. This could consist of corrugated metal, clay tile, and slate. Slate is exceptionally durable and can last over 200 years, depending on the type used. Errors and omissions insurance (professional liability) is another essential coverage for roofing companies. It can pay for legal defense costs and settlements if a client sues over shoddy work. It also covers damage to other property while completing a roofing job.