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Archive for the ‘Roofing’ Category

Although not commonly found on residential buildings, flat roofs do exist. They also face many challenges that a traditional, sloped roof does not face. As a homeowner, your flat roof will require much more attention and maintenance than a traditional one. The problems can quickly exacerbate and cost you more in repair. Therefore, it is important that you stay afloat of the challenges you be facing and adequately inspect it for any problems.

Flat Roof Problems

The most obvious problem is the lack of slope, which can cause major problems for drainage and the increased potential for water damage. Since there is no slope to promote water runoff, it tends to accumulate water and allow pooling. We all know that water is a roofs worst enemy, causing severe damage that can result in numerous other problems. If the water is unable to drain properly and continues to pool, the result can be severe water damage, leaks into the home and mold problems.

It also meets problems with its material base. Since traditional materials do not work well for flat roofs, the materials used come with additional considerations. Typically, a flat roof is unable to provide an adequate seal between rooflines or between any structures that protrude, such as a chimney. Traditional metal flashing is not an adequate material to bridge the gap along roofing structures, which makes sealing breaks in between roof materials more difficult.

Flat Roof Solutions

Since the most important aspect is a water tight seal and weather resistance, many roofers use only one of three proven methods. The most common material is made from a rubber or plastic material, to prevent water penetration. In some cases, you may find it has asphalt shingles, but you can bet there are layers of rubber or plastic underneath.

One of the oldest methods for installing a flat roof is called constructed up roofing. This method involves interchanging multiple layers of tar and water resistant fabrics, which is then covered with gravel. The gravel allows for adequate water drainage and prevents some pooling while the tar and fabric prevent water penetration.

Another method is the modified bitumen method, which involves laying a mineral rich material on top. The bitumen is water resistant and reflects heat from the sun’s rays, resulting in an energy efficient effect.

The rubber membrane method is the last method used to install a flat roof. It consists of laying a durable and thick rubber sheet on the roof. The rubber is naturally water resistant and prevents water penetration.

When considering a new roof for your home, the option to go with metal roofing is one that home owners might consider. Although the cost of metal roofing will be higher up front than most traditional roofs, in the long run the home owner is surely going to get a cost savings by installing these roofs. These roofs can last 50 plus years, while other materials that are chosen more often, such as asphalt, will require reroofing, or even being completely redone, every 10 to 20 years. By installing this roofing, you will also increase the value of the home, and the resale value, in the event that you are putting the home up for sale in the near future. In many states, home owners will also get a reduction in their home owner’s insurance premiums, if they install a metal roof, due to the fact that they are less prone to damage in the event of fire or other catastrophes that may occur.

Another added benefit of installing these roofing materials over traditional roofs is the long lasting factor. A metal roof can last twice or even three times as long as the traditional roofs will last. Due to their durability, and quality material, these roofs will last much longer in any home, and will require very little to no maintenance by the home owner whatsoever. There are also many different varieties that a home owner can choose from, if they are considering the option of installing metal roofing in their homes. The home owners can choose from various styles, colors, and finishes, when choosing to install a metal roof. Metal roofing that is installed in homes today looks similar to other roofing materials including: clay tiles, cedar shake or slate, or asphalt shingles. The only difference is that the metal roof will last far longer than these other materials you could have installed in your home instead.

For those looking for more benefits when installing roofs, you will find that they are far more energy efficient that traditional roofing. Metal roofs, whether they are installed in lighter or darker colors, reflect heat effectively, which will in turn help reduce the cooling costs in the summer months, and during the winter months, they will help insulate the home, which will reduce your home heating costs during the winter. Not only will this offer efficiency in your home, it can greatly help reduce your energy bills each month as well, especially in the peak summer and winter months, when they tend to be highest. When installing this roofing, home owners are also going to get longer warranties, for anywhere from 30 to 50 years with the best installers. Additionally, most installers will offer a workmanship warranty, in order to guarantee the actual installation job.

Whether you are looking for a special look or design, or whether you want a roof that will last for years without the need for repair work, the option of choosing metal roofing is one that all home owners should consider today.