Roofing is one of the most important parts of a home, but it’s also often one of the most overlooked. Until something goes wrong, that is.
If a roof is in disrepair, it can lead to serious problems with the structure of the house itself and even damage other areas of the home. But a new roof can be a great way to improve the look and feel of a home as well as protect it from the elements.
A good roof can be a huge selling point for a home, too, because it can add resale value to the property. And the good news is that a homeowner can usually recoup most of the money spent on a new roof when it comes time to sell.
There are many types of roofing materials, from asphalt shingles to metals. Most modern homes Roofer in East London use asphalt shingles, which are relatively inexpensive and come in a variety of colors. Metal roofs are more expensive but offer greater durability and energy savings.
The main function of a roof is to keep rain and snow out, but it also helps shield a house from the heat and cold and provide a place for insulation to go. The type of roof you choose will depend on where you live, the type of weather you have and your budget.
Shingles and shakes are the most common residential roofing materials. While shingles are easy to replace and fairly durable, they can become worn and damaged over time and should be replaced periodically. Other roofing materials include tile, slate and wood shakes, which are more expensive but can last for decades if properly maintained.
The shingles themselves are placed on top of the sheathing, which is typically plywood or OSB. The sheathing is then covered with an underlayment, such as felt or a synthetic membrane. The membrane prevents moisture from seeping through the sheathing into the shingles.
Some roofs are constructed with rafters cut on site from framing lumber like 2x10s. Others are built with pre-fabricated trusses that are delivered to the site and craned into place. Either way, the rafters and trusses support the shingles or other roofing material. A drip edge, which is a narrow strip of noncorrosive metal, is installed at the eaves and ridge to help manage dripping water. A dormer is a raised section of the roof that may contain a window or other feature.
Leaks can occur in the valleys, eaves and around penetrations like chimneys or plumbing vents. Most leaks can be stopped with flashing, which is a sheet of metal that covers and seals the gap between the roof and any other structure. A metal drip edge and an ice and water barrier are also commonly used to protect against leaks.
When a roof is old and worn, it can allow air to leak into the house, which raises the heating or cooling bills. A new roof, on the other hand, can reduce energy costs and help preserve the environment.