top of page
OUR ROOFING SERVICES
Shingle Roof.
Shingle roofs are made up of overlapping elements, known as shingles, which are typically composed of asphalt, wood, metal, or slate. These shingles are arranged in a way that allows water to flow downwards and off the roof, preventing leaks and water damage. Understanding the layers of shingle roof systems is crucial for making informed decisions about roofing materials and maintenance.
The first layer in a shingle roof system is the roof deck, which serves as the foundational structure. This layer is typically made of plywood or oriented strand board (OSB) and provides support for all subsequent layers. The roof deck is critical because it:
-
Supports Weight: It bears the weight of the shingles, underlayment, and any snow or debris that may accumulate on the roof.
-
Provides Structural Integrity: A sturdy roof deck ensures the roof remains strong and durable, preventing sagging or collapse.
-
Acts as a Base for Installation: The roof deck serves as the surface on which the underlayment and shingles are installed.
The second layer of a shingle roof is the underlayment, which is a protective barrier installed directly on top of the roof deck. Underlayment can be made of felt paper or synthetic materials and serves several important functions:
Water Resistance: The underlayment acts as a secondary barrier against water intrusion, preventing leaks that can occur through shingle seams or damaged shingles.
-
Protection Against Ice Dams: In cold climates, ice dams can form at the eaves of the roof, causing water to back up under the shingles.
-
Underlayment helps protect against this phenomenon by providing an additional layer of defense
-
.Ease of Installation: Underlayment provides a smoother surface for the shingles to adhere to, making the installation process easier and more efficient.
Flat Roof.
A flat roof is a common choice for a low-rise first floor extension, perhaps for a kitchen space or garage. Very often you will see them on a temporary building, or perhaps a more modern square box home construction.But a flat roof is never level. Code states that there must be a minimum slope of a ¼ inch in 12 for all but specialist coal tar roofing, which means that in every foot the roof height must decrease by ¼ inch. So, when is it a good idea to choose a flat roof construction?
Protect Your Roof from Leaks
To keep your roof and belongings dry, remember:
-
Install a proper drainage system with gutters and scuppers.
-
Use waterproof roofing materials, and pay special attention to seams and flashings around vents, skylights, and other roof penetrations.
-
Schedule annual inspections to look for water stains or standing water.
Modern flat roofs are typically constructed using materials such as EPDM rubber, PVC, TPO, or modified bitumen, allowing for greater durability and water resistance. They are commonly used in commercial buildings, such as office complexes and industrial spaces, as well as in urban residential developments.
Another cost-saving aspect of flat roofs is that they provide extra space for things like solar panels, rooftop gardens, or even additional living space. This added functionality can make the upfront expense of a flat roof more worthwhile in the long run.
Metal Roof.
-
Durability: Metal roofs can last 50 years or more.
-
Energy Efficiency: Reflects solar energy, reducing cooling costs.
-
Safety: Fire-resistant and less prone to weather damage.
-
Variety of Styles: Available in different colors and designs.
What is the Benefit of a Metal Roof?
Longevity and Durability.
Metal roofs are renowned for their longevity and durability. Unlike traditional asphalt shingles, which might need replacement every 12-25 years, metal roofs can last between 40 to 70 years. This extended lifespan makes them a cost-effective choice over time. For instance, a study found that metal roofs can withstand harsh weather conditions, from heavy snow to high winds, without sustaining damage. This is especially beneficial in areas prone to severe weather.
Impact resistance is another key advantage. Metal roofs can endure heavy rain, storms, and even winds up to 140 miles per hour. They are also resistant to cracking, shrinking, and eroding, unlike other roofing materials.
Energy Efficiency and Environmental Impact.
Metal roofs are not just durable; they’re also energy-efficient and environmentally friendly. One of the standout features is their ability to reflect solar radiant heat, which can reduce cooling costs by 10-25%. This means your home stays cooler in the summer, cutting down on energy bills.
Moreover, metal roofs are often made from recycled materials. According to the Metal Roofing Alliance, they are 100% recyclable at the end of their life. This significantly reduces landfill waste compared to asphalt shingles, which contribute 20 billion pounds of waste each year.
Tile Roof.
What Is a Tile Roof?
A tile roof uses clay or concrete tiles instead of standard asphalt shingles to protect your home from the elements. The tiles can come in different shapes and colors, overlapping to direct water off your roof and down toward your gutters.
Life Span and DurabilityOne of the most significant benefits of tile roofs is the life span. A typical tile roofing system lasting for 50 to 100 years, making tile one of the most durable roofing options.
The most common roofing material is the traditional asphalt shingle, which tends to be inexpensive to install compared to other materials—tile is often much more expensive. However, it’s much more durable than asphalt and won’t need to be replaced as frequently. For comparison, asphalt shingle roofs usually last between 20 and 30 years.
Aesthetic Versatility
Tile roofing is a popular choice for many homeowners because of the many design options it provides. Clay tile is almost always earth-toned, but you’ll find concrete roofing tiles in a variety of customizable colors.
Plus, both options come in different shapes to create unique patterns on your roof. Some common shapes include the following:
-
Flat tiles: Flat tiles lie flat to create a pattern similar to what you’d see on an asphalt roof.
-
Barrel tiles: Also called mission tiles, these have one or two vertical channels that interlock.
-
S-shaped (Spanish) tiles: These tiles are S-shaped and create two interlocking channels.
Some tile products are textured and mimic wood shake or even slate, giving you a more dynamic roof that’s also fireproof.
Energy Efficiency
One of your roof’s primary functions is insulating your home, at which tile is superior to most other materials. Tile naturally transfers heat very slowly, meaning it takes longer for your home to gain and lose heat. This helps to keep warm air trapped during colder months for improved energy efficiency.
Tile also helps keep homes cool in hot, sunny climates. Unlike asphalt roofs, where the shingles lay directly against the roof deck and underlayment, tiles sit partially above the decking, creating an air gap that drastically slows heat transfer to your home. When the sun is beating down on your roof, tiles help keep that heat out of your living space.
Light-colored tiles are also more reflective than dark asphalt shingles. One of the reasons you’ll often see tile roofs in southern or coastal architecture is because tile reflects solar energy rather than absorbing it. Tile can provide better long-term value than asphalt shingles if you want a roof that will help reduce heating and cooling costs.
bottom of page