Roofing is the covering of a building’s top to provide protection from the weather. Roofing styles range from flat to pitched, domed to vaulted. These are all common roof forms, and the choice may be determined by technical, aesthetic, and economic considerations. Some examples of historical roofing are: the polychrome tiles of the Hospices de Beaune, the glazed ceramic tiles of the Sydney Opera House, and the imbrex and tegula tiles of the dome of the Florence Cathedral. Historically, roofing styles included clay, terracotta, terra cotta, and slate, as well as copper and lead for roofs.
Roofing materials can be purchased in a variety of sizes, and you’ll need to measure and choose the right one for your roof. Full-size shingles would require three layers on top of each other, creating a visible hump. When selecting a roofing material, be sure to check the manufacturer’s specifications before making a decision. However, if you’re replacing an existing roof, you can purchase a new roof from a local building supplies store.
There are several types of asphalt roofing. Asphalt is a common roofing material, which is also known as organic felt. It contains cellulose fibers. When reroofing, shingles are installed by bridging, which is the most common method. Abutting up, or “butting up,” is another option. In this method, a shingle is applied over an old shingle, which makes the new shingle’s tabs overlap with the existing ones. The cap flashing prevents water from flowing behind the base flashing. Most roofing contractors use the same types of flashing on roofs, so you don’t have to change the flashing for both.
As with any construction project, measuring your roof is an important part of the process. If you are afraid of heights or don’t want to be injured, roofing is a difficult and physically demanding process. If you’re not physically fit, you’ll have to use a stepladder or carry a heavy bundle of shingles around with you. If you’re a novice, consider hiring a professional for the job. A roofer can help you measure a roof before the project begins.
Before modern roofers rediscovered felt, the main type of underlayment used to be asphalt-saturated felt. The benefits of asphalt-saturated felt included increased water-repellence, added fire resistance, and water damage control. However, asphalt rips easily and does not perform well when exposed to heat and UV rays. Fortunately, the technology to make roofing work for you now comes with a variety of different types of underlayment that provide extra protection for your roof.
Shakes and shingles are both popular roofing materials, but shakes are the most expensive. For example, a roof with a steeper pitch needs a single layer of felt for protection. Shakes can be a bit pricier, but they also last longer than shingles. If you’re looking for a lighter-duty solution, consider installing synthetic underlayment instead of felt. For those who want a durable roof with beautiful lines, shingles or slate shingles are the best option.