Roofs protect a structure from weather elements like rain, snow, and sunlight. Colorado Springs Roofing are the process of designing, installing, and maintaining the roof.

Roofs are constantly subjected to the elements, and the materials used to cover them have a major impact on how well the structure holds up under these conditions. Choosing the right roofing materials can help a builder or contractor meet client needs and specifications such as cost, endurance, and aesthetics. These materials also need to be able to support the weight of all the other structural elements that will be built on top of them.

The most commonly used residential roofing material is asphalt shingles. They are available in a range of colors and styles that can give a property a distinctive look. Other roofing materials include wood, tin, and clay tiles. Some newer roofing materials incorporate solar panels or even wind turbines to harness energy and create more environmentally friendly buildings.

For commercial buildings, flat roofing is common, and a wide variety of materials are available to protect it. Membrane roofing is a popular choice, with options including polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or thermoset single-ply membranes. These are made from synthetic rubber polymers designed to minimize seams in large roof areas. Some of these are also resistant to degradation from chemicals, ozone, and UV radiation.

Roofing insulation is a vital part of a roof system, helping to keep the building cooler in summer and warmer in winter. Roofing contractors can advise on the best types of insulation for a given climate and ensure it is installed correctly to maximize its benefits. Insulation can also help prevent serious damage from extreme weather, such as hail and high winds.

Installation

When roofing is installed correctly, it protects the interior of a home from rain, snow, wind, sunlight, and other elements. It also adds to the value of a house.

The first step in the roof installation process is to waterproof the valleys. These areas where the slopes meet and form a “V” shape are particularly susceptible to leaks but can be protected with underlayment or felt paper. This also helps maintain or improve the fire rating of the roof and may be required by building codes in some areas.

Once the underlayment is in place, the shingles can be installed. This is a labor-intensive job and requires a strong ladder to reach the roof. If you’re considering doing the work yourself, be sure to choose sturdy footwear with thick soles that will protect your feet from any stray nails that fall to the ground. It’s also a good idea to have someone steady the ladder while you work.

Proper ventilation of a roof is essential to protect the insulation and wood structure from damage as well as control the temperature in a house. Ridge vents, soffit vents, and other types of vents can be installed to allow air to flow through the roof into interior spaces.

Maintenance

The maintenance procedures must be tailored to the needs of the specific roof. However, basic maintenance items should include keeping the roof free of debris (this is especially important in buildings with a vegetative covering such as cut turf or grass; modern versions are known as “green roofs,” traditional ones as “sod roofs”). Debris blocking drain lines restricts drainage and accelerates membrane deterioration; in extreme cases, localized ponding of water can prematurely damage a roof system.

Regular inspections should be conducted by trained roofing professionals to determine roof conditions and identify any areas requiring immediate or future repair. This should be done on a monthly basis or at least each season in geographic locations that experience extreme weather variations. This allows for early problem detection and reduces costly emergency repairs and interior damage to finishes.

A housekeeping survey should be conducted on most roof areas on a monthly basis to keep drainage devices open. This should be augmented at times of the year when additional cleaning is required due to increased precipitation or a buildup of materials such as ice dams. The survey should be incorporated into a facility maintenance schedule and the results documented. Typical in-house mechanics can perform the housekeeping surveys, but any specialization, extensive repairs, or roofs under warranty should be contracted to a roofing professional.

Some roofs are covered with a layer of felt that provides an insulating layer and prevents the penetration of water into the building structure. Felt also maintains or increases a roof’s fire rating, which is a requirement for some facilities and buildings. Depending on the type of roof and the fire requirements, several different types of felt may be used.

Repairs

The best way to figure out if your roof needs to be up-to-code is to examine it inside and out. Get up into the attic or crawlspace (wherever you can access it) and take pictures of every part of your roof. Look for damp stains and rust, as well as any evidence of standing water. Check the ceilings and beams, too, for mold or rot; these are red alert signs that you should repair your roof before they spread.

And don’t forget to replace or repair flashing, the material around chimneys and where roofing planes meet; if that’s not replaced in time, it can lead to leaks. Ask your roofing professional about energy-efficiency rebates available in your area. These can offset some of the upfront costs.

Jo Ellis