Posts tagged with "roofing materials"

The Layers of Roofing Materials on Your Roof

You’ll be surprised to learn that your roof consists of different layers working together to ensure your home stays dry and comfortable. Each layer performs a specific function without which  your roof may collapse requiring a full roof replacement. Let’s discuss these layers.

Roof Deck

Roof decking forms the innermost layer of the roof and works as the foundation from which other layers are stacked. It’s mostly made of oriented strand board or soft wood to provide warmth and general coziness. It is the primary structural support for the rest of the roof layers.

Underlayment

Underlayment is the second inner layer of the roof. It’s made from synthetic or waterproof materials to prevent water leakage from tiles or shingles. It’s a secret protector that helps keep the roof deck warm and from rotting.

Roofing Material

This is the outer layer that most people see and refer to as the roof. It can be made of shingles, metal, tiles, or a unique aesthetic material like a green living roof. It’s prudent to choose the best roofing material because the stronger this layer is, the more protection you get.

Roof Flashing

Flashing is a vital outer layer that prevents water leakage in places where the roof meets other structures like chimneys, vents, or skylights. It prevents water from seeping through inner layers. In case you may experience a problem with your flashing system, you can have a full roof replacement done by roofing and exterior experts in IL and Missouri.

Roof Vent

The ridge vent allows sufficient air circulation and is primarily the breathing system of your roof. It helps maintain and regulate moisture and temperature for a conducive environment. Mold and ice dams thrive in poorly ventilated roofs; hence, unrestricted airflow through your attic is imperative.

Its crucial to hire roofing experts like Shelby Roofing and Exteriors, with extensive knowledge about roofs to ensure you get the best roof that can withstand all extreme conditions. Understanding these layers of your roof may aid in helping you select the best roof for your home.

The Layers of Roofing Materials on Your Roof

You’ll be surprised to learn that your roof consists of different layers working together to ensure your home stays dry and comfortable. Each layer performs a specific function without which  your roof may collapse requiring a full roof replacement. Let’s discuss these layers.

Roof Deck

Roof decking forms the innermost layer of the roof and works as the foundation from which other layers are stacked. It’s mostly made of oriented strand board or soft wood to provide warmth and general coziness. It is the primary structural support for the rest of the roof layers.

Underlayment

Underlayment is the second inner layer of the roof. It’s made from synthetic or waterproof materials to prevent water leakage from tiles or shingles. It’s a secret protector that helps keep the roof deck warm and from rotting.

Roofing Material

This is the outer layer that most people see and refer to as the roof. It can be made of shingles, metal, tiles, or a unique aesthetic material like a green living roof. It’s prudent to choose the best roofing material because the stronger this layer is, the more protection you get.

Roof Flashing

Flashing is a vital outer layer that prevents water leakage in places where the roof meets other structures like chimneys, vents, or skylights. It prevents water from seeping through inner layers. In case you may experience a problem with your flashing system, you can have a full roof replacement done by roofing and exterior experts in IL and Missouri.

Roof Vent

The ridge vent allows sufficient air circulation and is primarily the breathing system of your roof. It helps maintain and regulate moisture and temperature for a conducive environment. Mold and ice dams thrive in poorly ventilated roofs; hence, unrestricted airflow through your attic is imperative.

Its crucial to hire roofing experts like Shelby Roofing and Exteriors, with extensive knowledge about roofs to ensure you get the best roof that can withstand all extreme conditions. Understanding these layers of your roof may aid in helping you select the best roof for your home.

When Does a Flat Roof Need Repairs or Replacement?

Your home’s flat roof offers a modern look, its clean lines providing an opportunity for a roof porch. This roofing style costs less to install and proves easier to repair than pitched asphalt shingle roofs. How do you know when you need to contact a roofing professional for repairs to a flat roof?

Signs a Flat Roof Needs Repairs

Examine your home’s flat roof after each storm to check for visual damage. Seven signs indicate that your flat roof incurred damage. Let’s consider each of them.

1. Cracked Roofing Materials

Cracks can show on the rooftop or the ceiling inside. A crack in the roofing materials or the plywood sub-roof indicates an emergency repair need because water can leak through it and enter your home.

2. Leakage Into the Home

Perhaps you noticed leakage during the storm. Water entering your home from the ceiling means a leak developed from a crack, hole, or seam tear. It also comes from flashing that pulled away from the house – typically a sign that it got incorrectly installed.

3. Missing or Torn Roofing Covering

Whether your roof consists of roll roofing, roof tiles, shingles, or metal, tears or missing pieces indicate a need for immediate repairs. Although a roof consists of a sub-roof of plywood and flashing that does a similar job as house trim for a wall, it also consists of layers of roofing cover materials. When any part gets torn off or damaged, replace it immediately.

4. Sagging Ceilings

Inspect your home from the interior, too. Check each room for a sagging ceiling. When the ceiling sags, it shows that the sub-roof above incurred damage. Contact a professional roofer to repair the roof and then a general contractor to replace the sagging ceiling drywall.

5. Mold and Mildew Growth

Mold growth on the roof or near it on the home’s exterior indicates a roofing issue. If you find mold or mildew developing inside your home, especially at ceiling height, contact a professional roofer for a roof inspection. This inspection will uncover any hidden problems.

6. High Energy Bills

Some indicators you can’t see, such as a sudden increase in energy bills. Have the roof inspected if your home’s heating or air conditioning bills spike. While your home may only need added insulation between the roof and drywall ceiling, it could be roofing damage.

7. The Passage of Time

Most flat roofs and asphalt shingle roofs need replacing after 15 years. If that time has passed, replace the roof before leaks develop and cause interior damage.

Contact Shelby Roofing & Exteriors

Since 1983, Shelby Roofing & Exteriors has helped the communities of Missouri and southern Illinois keep their roofs in top shape. Contact our offices in Arnold, MO, for an inspection appointment or to request a repair quote. Let us help you improve your home and keep your flat roof looking and working great.