Red Stick Roofing of Louisiana material is the outer layer of a building that protects the underlying structure from natural elements. Depending upon availability and the nature of the supporting structure, roofing materials can vary widely from simple thatch and slate to modern commercially produced roof tiles. Regardless of the roofing material chosen, all must be placed on top of a secondary water-resistant underlayment.
The choice of roofing material is an important consideration because it impacts the esthetic of a building. A well-chosen and properly installed roof can enhance a home’s value while raising its curb appeal. There is an enormous selection of roofing materials designed expressly for architectural style and to serve specific functions.
Wood shingles and shakes are among the most popular types of roofing, lending homes a classic look. They may be made of a variety of different woods with cedar and redwood being particularly durable. Both shingles and shakes come in a wide range of sizes, shapes and textures. They may be sawn, split or rotted and are typically treated with wood preservatives and fire retardants.
Metal roofing is also very attractive, but is more expensive than some other roof coverings and requires more maintenance. It is usually found on older buildings and commercial structures. Metal shingles are manufactured to lock together and can reduce the installation time of a new roof. Corrugated galvanised iron is often used as a low-cost roof material for sheds, garages and outbuildings. It is manufactured with wavy corrugations to resist lateral flexing and fitted with exposed fasteners.
Ceramic tile roofs are another option for a beautiful and long-lasting roof covering. These are available in a wide variety of colours, styles and profiles to suit any architecture. They are heavier than clay tiles and require a structurally sound roof to support the additional weight.
Concrete tile is a less expensive alternative to clay tiles and is a good alternative for flat or low-pitch roofs. It can be made to resemble any type of tile and is available in a wide range of colours, patterns and textures. It is also very durable and comes in a number of profile options to complement any house.
Installation
Roofing is a meticulous process. Proper installation can protect your home and increase its value. It is not a job for the inexperienced, and homeowners who attempt to roof their own homes should make sure they understand the process fully before beginning. If you do not have the experience, it is highly recommended that you hire a professional to ensure proper and long-lasting results.
Waterproofing the valleys, which are the areas of your roof that meet the slopes in a “V” shape and allow a lot of water to run through, is another important step in the roofing process. Special underlayment can be used to waterproof these areas. Also, building codes may require that certain underlayment materials maintain a class A fire rating.
Proper ventilation of your attic is also an important part of a quality roof. These vents remove moisture and heat from the attic, preventing damage to insulation and regulating the temperature in your home. Depending on your roof design, ridge vents, soffit vents, and other types of vents can be installed to properly ventilate your roof.
Ask your roofing contractor if they are GAF-certified; this indicates that the contractor has gone through the manufacturer’s training and can offer warranties on their work. Also, check with your homeowners insurance company; they may have a list of preferred contractors.
Maintenance
Roofs are subjected to a brutal assault from wind, rain, hail, bitter cold and intense sunlight. Yet they are one of the components of a building that receives very little attention in terms of maintenance procedures. This is unfortunate, as roofs can be a significant investment and the failure of even a relatively young roofing system can result in substantial interior damage. A routine maintenance program can prevent this damage and extend the life of the roof.
Ideally, the roof should be regularly inspected by a professional. This inspection should include a visual check for the following:
Debris – The removal of debris from drains, scuppers, gutters and the roof surface is an important maintenance procedure. This can eliminate blockages that may cause ponding and the associated penetration of the membranes. Vegetation – The removal of moss and other vegetation is also important to maintain the integrity of the membranes. The presence of plant material in a roof can deteriorate the waterproofing underlayment and compromise the fire rating.
Leaks – The regular inspection of the caulking at penetrations and perimeter flashings can prevent leaks. The caulking should be inspected for cracking, openings, deterioration and crazing. Areas of caulking that need repair should be promptly repaired.
Small isolated deficiencies should be addressed as they are found, as these will not only extend the life of the roof but also reduce the expense of repairs later. This is particularly true of the metal flashings that are located at joints and edges where different roof planes meet or penetrate through walls, chimneys and plumbing vents.
Drainage – The clogging of drains and scuppers by debris can result in severe water backup and structural loading. The removal of accumulated debris should be carried out as soon as possible to prevent the accumulation of moisture in the interiors of the buildings.
Traffic Patterns – The continual movement of people and equipment across the roof surface can lead to erosion of the surface and accelerate the rate of membrane deterioration. Care should be taken when removing personnel and equipment from the roof, especially in areas where a fall could seriously injure a person.
Repairs
A solid, water-tight roof protects the rest of the house from the elements — wind, rain and snow. It also keeps moisture out, reducing the risk of mold and rot in the walls, ceilings, floors and furnishings. An outdated, damaged roof can cause moisture to seep into the home, compromising insulation and promoting mold growth. An updated roof is a good investment in the long term.
Whether it’s a repair or replacement job, the first step is to remove existing shingles. Without removing old shingles, it’s impossible to know what the condition of the underlying materials is. Leaving them in place could lead to further damage, especially if the shingle aren’t rated for high winds.
After the shingles are removed, slip a strip of adhesive ice-and-water barrier (available where roofing repair products are sold) under the soffit/main roof joint. This should overlap another strip laid below, to cover the most leak-prone areas.