A Complete Guide To Different Roofing Materials

A Complete Guide to Different Roofing Materials


PART I

Who has the time and interest to study about roofs? It is quite unfortunate how many see roofs simply as a structural part of our house that provides cover against

the weather and elements.

Being here reading this, let us congratulate you -- you are now a step closer to taking better care of not only your

roof, but your home, investment, and family.

There is actually a lot to learn about your roof, but let us first discuss roofing materials, which can be considered

the basic factor every homeowner should know about.

Knowing Your Roof:Identifying Your Roofing Material


Knowing Your Roof: Identifying Your Roofing Material

The importance of knowing more about your roofing materials

There are a number of roofing materials, and these materials have different characteristics, features, advantages, and disadvantages. Many typical homeowners are uninformed when it comes to roofing materials.

If you don’t find the time to learn, how can you possibly know how to care for your roof, resolve common and minor issues, and decide the best course of action in case of more serious problems?

DIFFERENT ROOFING MATERIALStheir advantages and disadvantages

Roofing care and maintenance methods vary depending on the material. Below, you can find general information about your roofing material.

Asphalt Composition Shingles

These are among the most common types of roofing materials available and are installed in many homes. They are composed of a backing, which can be made of fiberglass or an organic material such as cellulose), mineral granules, & asphalt.



√ - THE GOOD Inexpensive and is the most economical roofing option Excellent fire resistance Plenty of options in terms of styles, color, and cost Easy to install and replace

X - THE BAD Can degrade faster than other roofing materials due to exposure to sun and other elements Prone to hail and impact damage

Wood Shingles and Shake

Typically made from redwood, cypress, pine, and western red cedar, wood roof shingles make a good choice for steep-pitched roofs as they can effectively bring out elegance.

√ - THE GOOD Visually appealing with nice texture Made from sustainable materials making them a green choice Generally cooler than other roofing materials

X - THE BAD Not fireproof -- not a good choice for homes in fire-prone areas Prone to rot and decay Appearance can change over time, looking dull and weathered Requires extensive maintenance



Metal Roof

This type of roofing can be made of steel, copper, or aluminum. It can also come in two forms: sheeting or tiles.

√ - THE GOOD Highly durable Fireproof Can shed snow and ice effectively It is a cool roofing material

X - THE BAD Difficult to match with the architectural style of most homes and neighborhoods Can corrode over and rust time Prone to denting

Clay or Concrete Roof Tiles

This type of roofing is known for being durable yet heavy, requiring the underlying roof structure to be designed carefully to be able to provide sufficient support.

√ - THE GOOD Durable, long-lasting, & virtually maintenance-free Fireproof Comes in a variety of styles and designs that mimic wood or slate roof Has good insulating value



X - THE BAD Requires professional installation More expensive than other roofing materials Heavy -- requires a lot in terms of roof support Tiles are more fragile compared to other types of roofing materials

Slate Roof

Slate is real stone and comes in different shades. It is known for being aesthetically appealing, but just like with clay roof it requires sturdy framing.

√ - THE GOOD: One of the longest-lasting roofs you can find Provides good visual appeal Fireproof Can be reused, making it a green roofing option

X - THE BAD Requires installation of professional and experienced contractors Costlier than other roofing materials Because of its weight, the roof structure may need additional reinforcement


PART II

As a homeowner, you can expect to deal with issues such as roof leak or damage at some point during your home’s life. However, with proper care and maintenance, you can minimize the occurrence and frequency of those problems

and maximize the service life of your roof.

While there are generic and universal care and maintenance measures that you can take note of, you should also learn about those that are specific to your

roofing material.

Basic Care and Maintenance



Asphalt Composition Shingles

Clear debris and algae or moss from the roof. Debris such as leaves, twigs, and trash can prevent water from flowing continuously down from the roof, and when soaked in water for some time, the shingles can be damaged.

Check flashings for corrosion and damage -- repair as necessary..

Replace missing or damaged shingles.

Check sealants and caulking. Re-caulk as necessary.

Wood Shingles and Shake

Remove all litter -- leaves, pine needles, and other debris that can accumulate between the shingles and shakes.

Remove overhanging tree and plant branches to ensure total exposure to the sun and promote drying.

Check for rot and damage. Replace shingles or shake as necessary.



Metal Roof

Avoid standing on the roof or putting anything heavy on it to avoid denting.

Remove any debris.

Make sure that different metals in the roof do not touch each other to avoid corrosion.

Check the screws -- tighten loose ones and replace those missing or dislodged.

Inspect sealants at the seams and edges. Re-seal if needed.

Repair separated seams and holes.

Composite Roof

Clean your roof of any debris, waste, algae, and moss but do NOT pressure wash. Use a sprayer and a brush for cleaning instead.

While known to be extremely durable, it is still best to check for any damage. Repair and replace tiles when needed.



Slate Roof

Check for broken and slipped slates -- replace as necessary.

Inspect flashings -- re-seal, re-caulk, or replace when needed.

Clay or Concrete Roof Tiles

Check for cracks and damage -- replace broken tiles immediately.

Use a power washer when cleaning but do not spray too close to the tiles as too much pressure can damage them. You can use a cleaning solution made up of warm water and mild detergent.

Check the sealants. Re-apply when necessary.


PART III

Since you have successfully shown that you truly want to know about how you can take better care of your roof, here’s a bonus guide for you. Check out for these roofing issues that can be experienced by any homeowner

regardless of the type of their roof material.

Knowing about these problems and the solutions for them can help you maximize your investment and prolong the

life of your roof.

Quick Fixes for the MostCommon Roofing Problems


Quick Fixes for the Most Common Roofing Problems

Minor Roof Leaks

Leaks can be difficult to detect but if you got some skill, you can address the more obvious, minor ones.

Susceptible roof materials: All

FIX IT: Upon noticing signs of roof leak, you can give your roof a basic inspection. Check out for holes and misplaced nails. For minor holes, apply a sealant. For nails that missed the framing member, clip the nail with side-cutting pliers.*

*It is still best to contact a roofing contractor who can provide a more thorough and accurate inspection of your roof.

Blow-off Damage

High winds can blow off a part of your roof or some shingles.


FIX IT: If sections of your roof or some shingles have been blown off, you can install new shingles or panels. Just make sure to follow manufacturer’s installation and safety instructions.*

*It is still best to contact a roofing contractor who can inspect your roof for other damages and install the roof sections, tiles, or shingles, especially if you don’t have adequate skills, experience, and tools.



Damaged or Missing Shingles

Over time, roof shingles can show damage. They can also cup, curl, and become brittle, leading to breakage. Some may also get detached and go missing.

Susceptible roof materials: Asphalt, Wood, Clay, Slate, Composite

FIX IT: You can purchase shingles similar to your existing roof and replace the damaged and missing ones yourself. Make sure to follow manufacturer’s installation and safety instructions.

Damaged or Missing Roof Flashing

Damaged roof flashing can also cause roofing material and assembly damage.


FIX IT: Repair and replace damaged or missing roof flashing. Make sure to seal and caulk properly and adequately. To ensure that it lasts longer, maintain it regularly by re-painting and re-caulking as necessary.



Rot, Rust, and Decay

When the roof is not let to dry out completely, wood shakes and shingles can rot. Meanwhile, age and elements can lead to asphalt decay. The same factors can also make metal roof succumb to rust.

Susceptible roof materials: Asphalt, Wood, Metal

FIX IT: If only a few shingles or tiles are problematic, you can purchase replacement tiles and shingles if you don’t have a spare at home and install them yourself. Make sure to follow manufacturer’s installation and safety instructions.

An important reminder: these problems can be encountered by any homeowner but not all homeowners may have the skill and right tools to apply the solutions provided. If you are not confident that you can make the repairs and replacements yourself, it wouldn’t hurt to call a professional.


AQUADUCT ROOF & GUTTERS

Colorado Springs (719) 390-7663Denver (303) 778-7663Pueblo (719) 544-5544www.aquaductroofing.com

http://www.aquaductroofing.com

A Complete Guide To Different Roofing Materials

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