Things to Consider When Re-Roofing a Home
Roofing is the process of covering a building with a layer of material that protects it from the weather. Roofing materials are made from a variety of materials and constructions. These layers of protection are also known as the building envelope. Here are a few things to consider when re-roofing a building.
Roofing materials are a key aspect of a home’s aesthetic appeal. There are many different types and colors of roofing materials, each with its own unique qualities and benefits. Roofing materials also have a significant impact on the structural integrity of a building. This is especially important for heavier products. Roofing materials also need to be able to withstand the weight of the entire roof when fully installed. Some geographic locations may also limit the weight capacity of a material, such as houses located on cliffs or buildings on beaches.
Thermoplastic roofing materials are primarily used for flat roofs and are best for warm climates. They are also cheaper and easier to install than other types of roofing materials. While thermoplastic roofing materials are not the most common material for residential roofing, they do provide a unique look. In terms of longevity, they outperform other types of roofing materials and are one of the fastest-growing types of material.
Wooden roofs are a beautiful and affordable option, but they also have their downsides. They do not last as long as other materials, and they are not recommended for places with excessive moisture or wildfire risk. Still, they are one of the most attractive roofing materials and are often used for luxury homes. Wood shakes are made from cedar and are manufactured by splitting the wood. Once installed, they have a rough texture and a distinctive look.
Slate is another popular choice for roofs. This fine-grained sedimentary rock has a long lifespan of fifty or more. It is heavy and may require a foundation beneath the roof. It can also be difficult to install and can be expensive compared to other types of roofing. If you’re interested in slate roofing, you should understand that the costs can be prohibitive.
Rolled roofing is an affordable option for roofs on lower slopes. This material is also popular for residential and utilitarian buildings that are on a budget. Rolled roofing can be hammered into place, but it is not recommended for steeper roofs.
The pitch of a roof is a key factor in the structural integrity of a home. It allows rain and snow to drain away from home efficiently. A steeper pitch is ideal in areas with more rainfall because it keeps water and snow from pooling and causing damage to the roof or other structures below. Many states, particularly northern states, include a minimum pitch level in building codes. Insurance carriers often provide guidelines to homeowners about the safe snow load for their roofs.
The pitch of a roof is measured as a ratio of horizontal to vertical length. In general, a roof with a 10:12 pitch ratio is steeper than one with a lower pitch. Its slope is steep enough to protect a home from severe weather conditions, but it also creates a colder climate. A homeowner can measure the pitch of their roof by looking at the roof from inside an attic or crawl space.
There are several different types of roofs, and each one has its own characteristics. Low-slope roofs have a pitch of one to two inches. Medium-sloped roofs have a pitch between three and nine percent. And steep-sloped roofs have a pitch of nine percent or higher.
Roofing pitch and slope are often used interchangeably, but they are not synonymous. While the two terms are not the same, they are similar in meaning and function. For non-gable roofs, the pitch is a better term because it is easier to calculate. Using the same terminology for both will improve the longevity of a home and reduce your need to hire a roofing contractor in the future.
Roofing pitch is a common term in the roofing industry. The pitch tells how much the roof will rise for every 12 inches of horizontal distance. Basically, the higher the pitch, the steeper the roof will be. A typical three-inch-rising roof will add three inches of height. The relationship between horizontal distance and the roof pitch is illustrated by the sketch below.
Roofing pitch is a critical factor when it comes to the structural integrity of a home. The slope will determine the direction of water flow and prevent leaks. When water collects in the roof, it can lead to serious damage and costly repairs. A steep-sloping roof will help to redirect water away from your home.
