We see the roofs of houses every day. Whether it’s our own, our neighbours, or just the dozens or hundreds we pass by on our commutes. But what we can’t see just by looking is that the typical roofing system is an incredibly complex engineering feat, which can employ some of the most cutting edge technology in the construction industry.
Hopefully, recent storms will not have damaged the roof to your house, and it’s possibly the last thing on your mind when it comes to thinking about your home. Nottingham roofers would like to give you the facts about this essential part of every home.
- Where you live can dictate what kind of roof you have or need. Some roof types work better in certain climates or regions. Gable roofs are best for colder, snowy climates, or for homeowners who want to build attic conversions. Hipped roofs, which have four slopes of equal length on all four sides are more wind resistant, so apt for houses in windy areas.
Flat roofs are susceptible to having water pool upon them, which means they’re more appropriate for drier climates.
- However, flat roofs are not entirely flat, as they require a slope of at least one quarter inch per foot, to allow water to drain away.
- A roof is much more than just shingles and wood. There are no fewer than seven necessary components in a roof system. The roof decking is needed to support all the weight of the roof system. There will be an ice or water barrier to prevent damage should ice damming occurs. A waterproof or water resistant underlay protects the deck from moisture and damp.
The metal flashing ensures that water runs off the edges of the roof, as does the drip edge, all to channel away rain water from your home. There must also be a ventilation system, and finally the shingles themselves.
- While it may seem like an inexpensive, quick fix to a roofing problem, double-layered roofs can cover up big roofing issues that need to be addressed. In addition, a double-layered roof adds weight and just hides the corroding material, allowing the problem to get worse. If previous roofing materials were installed over the top of your existing roof, you should replace the entire roof as soon as possible.
- The complexity of the roof system means that it’s generally unwise to DIY your own roof. A roof is actually a complex system of layers that require proper installation from skilled professionals with the right training and tools to ensure it all works together correctly. Going the DIY route can result in damage to your attic, walls, wood frame, and even electrical systems.
- A roof needs air. Roof ventilation, the flow of air on the underside of a roof deck, is one of the most critical aspects of the whole roof system. Roof ventilation allows warm, moist air to escape and cooler, drier air to come into the attic. Without ventilation, condensation is going to build up in your attic, which can damage walls, wood, and insulation.
- Environmentally friendly or “cool roofs” reflect infrared and ultraviolet rays from the sun away from the building and have a higher thermal emittance, or ability to efficiently emit radiation. Cool roofs not only help homeowners conserve energy, but they reduce air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions as well by mitigating the heat radiated into the atmosphere.
- It’s a roofing fact that it’s important to keep your roof clean and clear of moss, algae and fungus/lichen, but did you know there are professionals who specialise in keeping roofs clean? They have special techniques and products to do it, including equipment that doesn’t harm shingles and biodegradable cleaning solutions that are less harmful to plants and the environment.
- A new roof can be a major selling point when you go to sell your home. Conversely, a roof with leaks, missing or damaged shingles, or other visible signs of disrepair can send a potential buyer running. The last thing a new homeowner wants to do is spend money on a costly roof replacement. It’s far better to replace your roof before you sell your home.
- The typical lifespan of a roof really depends on the materials and installation. A simple, 3-tab shingle roof may be warranted for 20 to 25 years. Shake style shingles can be warranted for up to 50 years.
If you are requiring roof repairs and roofers in Nottingham, then get in touch with Advance Homes today.
