While all home problems, whether it’s a broken doorknob or failing light switches, must be resolved as soon as possible, it’s safe to say that homeowners unanimously agree that roof repair must always be at the top of every priority list. One loose shingle can have disastrous effects! If left unattended, that shingle will most definitely lead to water leaking into your house. And water coming through the roof can easily travel from the attic right down to that expensive and painstakingly remodelled living room and maybe even onto that new big-screen TV.
But roof replacement and repair is not simple and cannot be done at leisure. Considering the disastrous consequences you can suffer because of roof failure, roof repair must never be delayed. Whether you think you need to repair one loose shingle or replace the whole roof, you will most probably have to call in an experienced contractor to ensure that the job is done right the first time. This post will help you brush up on roof basics so you are well prepared when it comes time to solicit bids from roofing contractors.
Roofing Materials: Common Choices for Residential Roofing
Roofing materials typically vary from one state to another and from one country to another. This is because it not only depends on individual homeowner’s taste but also because the local weather has to be taken into account.
In the world’s most fire-prone regions, metal roofing is generally the preferred material precisely because of its fire resistance property. In regions prone to cold winters and snow, the choice of roofing material would typically be slate roofing or fibreglass asphalt shingles. On the other hand, in other regions, the predominant home styles might call for a Spanish-influenced tile roof. Another factor influencing the kinds of materials used for a roof is the roof pitch (or the roof angle). The steeper the pitched roof, for example, the wiser it would be to opt for wood shake shingles. This same material will be completely unsuitable for flatter, low-pitched roofs though.
If you are considering replacing the whole roof, you can select from on the most popular choices for residential roofing there are:
1. Asphalt Composition Shingles
Even though asphalt composition shingles are generally less attractive than the other options out there, they are relatively cheap and easily obtainable. So, do not let their flat appearance deter you from getting them. There’s a reason why asphalt shingles are by far the most popular type of roofing material.
2. Ceramic tile or Clay Tile
Ceramic tile, also known as clay tile, are great options. However, these Spanish-style red tile roofs are gradually losing in popularity and are slowly being replaced by metal and composite materials. These new materials have the same fire retardant characteristic as ceramic tile but weigh much less than those. If you want a more traditional look, you can stick with the clay tile. Otherwise, you can adopt the new shingles called the half-barrel for a lighter material that looks just as good.
3. Composition Slate
Composite slates are synthetic tiles that bear a lot of resemblance to the traditional slate roofs and other forms of stone tiles. Composed of about 95% recycled materials, such as rubber, composition slate are gaining in popularity because even though they look the same as the more traditional materials, they offer greater security as they are less vulnerable to weather damage and are also much lighter.
4. Metal Roofing:
Although known for being expensive and requiring specialty contractors for installation, metal roofing is gradually gaining traction among homeowners. Made of steel or aluminium, metal roofing is rightfully gaining in popularity because it is both fireproof and highly durable. While they may cost a lot at the beginning, they are eventually more cost-effective than any other roofing systems as they are able to outlast all of the other ones. Metal roofing systems also come in different types, such as raised-seam panels and products that mimic the look of composite shingles.
5. Slate Roofing
Slate roofing is our personal favourite, to be honest! Slate roofing is incredibly beautiful! But we acknowledge that it probably has cons than pros, what with them being both very expensive and very heavy. To top it all off, they are difficult to repair and tend to be very slippery. But this high-end roofing option beauty is truly timeless and unique!
6. Wood Shakes or Wood Shingles
Wood shakes, also known as wood shingles, are gorgeous roofing systems as well. But this attractive roof is also pricey and are not great options for houses in regions at risk of fire. However, they are very durable and can withstand harsh wintry weather.
So, Do You Replace the Whole Roof, Tear Off those Loose Shingles and Replace Them, or Simply Lay a New Shingle over the Preexisting Layer?
That depends. If too many shingles are damaged, you would probably be better off replacing the whole thing. If there’s only one shingle that’s damaged, on the other hand, stick with repairing it. Depending on where you are, you might be able to just lay a new shingle on top of another. Just check the regulations in your jurisdiction. If complete tear-off of the previous roofing is not obligatory, go ahead and layer all you want!
