A Guide to Roofing Materials

Roofing, while not a very glamorous job, certainly requires the right skills, materials, and experience for the best results. A roof over your head is basically the biggest covering of your house, adding structures and materials to support it on either uprights or along the walls of your house. A roof is essentially a part of your house’s building envelope. When it rains or snows, it could potentially cause damage to the materials of your roof such as your shingles, tiles, or roofing sheets. A small leak may not seem like a big deal at first, but if it starts to spread and gets bigger, you could potentially have some serious structural damage to your roof.

With modern technology, modern techniques, and state-of-the-art materials, roofing contractors are able to create roofs that are stronger, more durable, and more resistant to extreme weather conditions. Because of this, it’s important that any roof contractors are properly trained and have the proper knowledge and skills for their jobs. Metal roofing materials have come a long way from just being used as roofing materials for schools and homes. These days there are a wide variety of metal roofing materials that can be customized for a wide range of uses. Here are some of the most common types of roofing materials:

Flat roofs: Flat roofs, also known as steeply pitched roofs, are roofs that don’t have the taper of other roofing materials. Instead, these roofs have a steep pitch which creates a smooth, even surface. Flat roofs are often best suited for attached garages, outdoor workshops, and covered patios, because they offer more flexibility in design and construction. Flat roofs are also typically easier to install than steeply pitched roofs and therefore more economical.

Aluminum Shingles: Unlike flat roofs, aluminum shingles offer both a flat pitch and strength. Asphalt shingles are generally weaker and less durable than the aluminum variety. Asphalt shingles are typically more susceptible to weather wear and tear, so they may not be the best choice for all situations. However, when used on a flat roof, an aluminum roof may offer some of the best value and durability. Aluminum is one of the strongest building materials available, so it can resist extreme weather conditions for many years without becoming damaged. As a result, they may be a cost-effective roofing material for high-traffic areas.

Modified Bitumen: Bitumen is a highly durable roofing material that has a modified “X” shape. The modified bitumen is more flexible than standard asphalt shingles, which allows it to mold into various shapes. These shapes can include domed roofs, open roofs, as well as numerous other unique designs. These roof shapes will not only add a unique look but also offer a superior level of durability.

valleys: When you get a new asphalt roof installed, be sure to check for valleys in the flashing between the rafters. The valleys will add strength to the roof, but they can also be a breeding ground for mold and algae if not sealed off. In general, if there are valleys in your roof flashing, it’s best to get rid of them, so that your roof and your health will be protected. Especially in the hot and humid South, getting rid of valleys in your roof flashing can be extremely beneficial. If you live in an area that experiences high humidity, be sure to also seal off the valleys.