Whether you are renovating your house and need to re-roof the house or whether you’re just putting up a new roof, there are a number of critical points you should pay very careful attention to. This job is worth the time, money and trouble you’re going to invest in it because your whole house depends on it. There is no room for half-measures. If the job is being taken care of by a contractor then he too must treat this with the utmost care.
The materials most commonly used for roofing the house are asphalt shingles, concrete tile, and clay tiles. Newer materials like metal, and composites are also used.
The actual material needed will depend on the existing roofing material and its construction, if you’re renovating. Asphalt shingles usually will need to be replaced with the same because the weight difference in clay or slate will overload the structure. Overloading the existing structure may lead to structural failure, even to the point of collapse.
However, structural calculations and reports can be provided simply by looking at the existing structural support system and doing a comprehensive report recognized by the building department. You need to have this done by a licensed qualified engineer for a minimal charge. (Usually around $450.00) These reports will determine whether or not you need to modify certain areas with hardware or additional rafters to accommodate the extra weight. In most cases, very little or nothing at all ever needs to be done to accommodate the additional weight factor from clay or slate, and any modification can usually be performed by the licensed qualified roofing contractor handling the project.
If a tremendous amount of structural modifications need to be completed, then you have the option of going with a lightweight tile. These are made up of different composites giving the same appearance but at nearly 1/2 the weight. The lightweight tiles are generally more expensive and should not ever be walked on unless you are qualified to do so.
If you do use asphalt shingles you can look forward to many years free from roofing worries. Asphalt shingles are not recommended where there is an extreme variation in seasonal temperatures. It’s been reported that asphalt has a tendency to crack in such conditions.
Putting up a new roof gives you much more latitude in selecting the construction and material of the roof. You will need to design the structure very carefully; the integrity and longevity of the house depends on the structural design of the roof.
Every home owner aspires to have an aesthetically pleasing house. Newer metal, plastic and composite materials are lightweight and structurally sound. These provide a viable alternative to traditional materials. Some of these newer materials can be used with traditional structuring; some may require updated construction techniques.
The cardinal rule for a top quality roof is: Use only top quality material for roofing and construction. Anything less than top quality will mean nagging roof-related problems, from leakage and seepage, to structural instability. The integrity of the roof is an important contributory factor to the integrity of the entire house. The longevity of the house is directly dependent on the longevity of the roof. So make quality your top priority when replacing or repairing your roof.
Not sure which type of materials are right for you and your home? The experts at Preman Roofing have many years of service and have hundreds of styles to help you choose from.