Roofing Companies specialize in the installation and repair of roofs. They may provide a wide range of services, from installing new residential shingles to replacing a commercial low-sloped roof.
A successful roofing business requires enough working capital to meet operating expenses until it turns a profit. Then the company can pay its suppliers and workers.
When it comes to roofing materials, there are a wide variety of options to consider. Each brings its own unique set of pros and cons, so it’s important to weigh your options carefully before making a decision. Choosing the right roofing materials can ensure your home’s protection for years to come and keep its value high.
Asphalt shingles are one of the most popular choices for homeowners because of their affordability and versatility. They are available in a range of styles and colors to complement your home’s aesthetic. In addition, they provide good protection from rain and fire. However, they do not last as long as other roofing materials and can be susceptible to moss and mildew.
Metal roofing is an excellent choice for a modern home due to its light weight and durability. It is also able to resist fire and moisture, making it a reliable option for any climate. Metal roofs can be installed in shingle, shake or standing seam styles.
Slate tiles are a classic roofing option that adds beauty and elegance to any house. This roofing material is made of natural slate, and while it was once only used on the homes of lords and ladies due to its high price tag, it has become more affordable thanks to new ways of processing the stone. Slate is long-lasting and durable, and when properly maintained, it can last for over a century.
Rolled roofing, also known as mineral-surfaced roofing membrane, is a common choice for low-slope residential roofs and outbuildings like sheds and garages. This type of roofing is typically black, which can absorb heat and raise cooling bills, and it is held down with hot tar or cold-applied adhesive.
Lastly, there are synthetic roofs that are made from plastic, rubber, and other polymers. These roofs are increasing in popularity because they can mimic the look of traditional roofing materials and offer superior durability. They are also highly energy efficient and environmentally friendly. They are also resistant to rot, mold and mildew, and insects. Whether you choose a synthetic or traditional roof, it is important to consult a professional roofing company about the best options for your home’s specific needs and climate.
Roofing Installation
If your roof is in need of a replacement, you will want to hire a roofing company that has a good reputation for quality work and customer service. It’s important to get a few estimates before making a decision. You can also ask for references from past customers. It’s also a good idea to research the contractors on the Better Business Bureau and other websites. You can check whether they are licensed, insured, and have a good track record.
When the contractor arrives, they will first remove any debris on the ground and cover anything that can’t be protected with tarps. Then they will begin removing the old shingles and disposing of them. They will then inspect the roof to ensure there are no issues with the underlying materials that need to be addressed.
After the new shingles are installed, the contractor will install drip edge flashing to defend against water intrusion. They will also add valley flashing to protect the areas where the peaks of the roof meet. They will also put in any necessary vents, such as for wood stove pipes or to provide ridge ventilation. They will also seal the roof with a bead of roofing cement to prevent leaks in high-water-pressure areas like the eaves or hips of the roof.
The best part about hiring a professional roofing company is that they can manage the entire project on your behalf, including ordering the materials and making the necessary repairs. Plus, they have liability insurance in case of an accident and can offer long-lasting warranties on their work. In most cases, a professional roofer will be more cost-effective than doing it yourself.
Roofing Repair
Like painting a room or repainting cabinets, roofing repairs are large home improvement projects that must be done correctly. A licensed roofer with a specialized roofing license has the skills and knowledge to fix problems quickly, efficiently, and safely. They also carry the proper insurance to protect you and them should an accident occur during your project.
When a roof needs repair, it’s usually best to replace all the shingles in order to preserve the integrity of the overall structure. But if your roof is leaking, missing shingles, or showing signs of deterioration, it may be necessary to completely replace the roof.
One type of roofing repair involves fixing leaks or damage caused by the weather, especially hail. A roof’s flashing (thin sheet metal around parts of the roof, like pipes) can get damaged in hail and will need to be bent back into place and re-sealed. This is a job for a professional roofer, as it requires working on delicate areas of your roof and using pliers to bend the flashing in the right places.
Another common repair involves replacing fascia boards, which are long wooden boards that cover the bottom edges of your roof and protect it from water damage, animal infestation, and mold growth. This is another job for a professional roofer, as the process involves cutting into existing shingles and possibly exposing other parts of your roof that can need to be repaired or replaced.
Roofing Maintenance
Roofing maintenance is an important part of keeping your building’s roof in good shape. Regular visual inspections and cleaning help prevent problems from arising or becoming worse. Regular maintenance also helps ensure that the materials you’ve invested in last as long as possible so you get the most out of your roofing system. Ideally, this should be done on a routine basis, preferably biannually. This allows early problem detection and repairs, as well as provides documentation should an insurance or warranty claim be necessary.
When performed correctly, residential roof maintenance is very effective at preventing a wide variety of issues. For example, a crack in the flashing may not seem like a big deal but can become much more serious if left untreated. This is why it’s best to have these problems nipped in the bud by a professional roofing expert.
Another benefit of a properly maintained roof is improved energy efficiency. By identifying areas where air is escaping or entering the building, roofers can seal them to reduce energy costs and improve indoor comfort.
A roofing maintenance program typically involves inspecting the roof field and perimeter, skylights, walls, penetrations, equipment curbs, drain systems, gutter systems, ridges, coping caps, and lap seams. A thorough inspection of the roof’s flashing is especially important, since leaks often originate here. A maintenance program should also include cleaning of the attic and removal of any debris that has accumulated.
Roofers will also make sure the attic is adequately ventilated so that hot air and moisture do not build up and damage shingles or the structure of the house. They will check for clogged vents, leaking gutters, and fallen tree limbs that can block airflow and cause premature wear on the shingles or the roof membranes. They will also clean the gutters and downspouts to remove any leaves or debris that could clog them.