Roofing Techniques: How Roof Construction Has Evolved
Roofing is a big job and one that must be done with precision in order to ensure a safe, lasting construction. The procedures and techniques involved in roofing projects are time tested and fairly unchanging now, but they have evolved much over time. As new standards for building emerged and construction equipment and technology became more advanced, the approach to roofing changed as well. More attention and emphasis is made on tearing off and preparing the roof deck since this is a fundamental part of safely repairing or installing a roof. Here is a look at some of the modern roofing techniques.
Setting the Work Area
The first part of a roofing project is creating a clean and organized work area in order to minimize damages to surrounding areas and provide a safe work area. Keep children and pets out, identify underground and overhead hazards, relocate vehicles and other vulnerable items around the exterior, cover shrubs and other plants with tarps, and remove wall hangings and loose shelf items inside. Preparing the construction site is important for safety and will help reduce the likelihood of damages to property.
Prepping the Roof Deck
The next step involves tearing the roof off and getting the roof deck ready for repairs. The surface under the shingles is the basis for the structure and is the most important part of the structure. Identifying problems here is essential to proper roof repair and long term structural safety. Protecting the roof deck and installing leak barriers is a good way to prevent wear and damage to the roof deck. After properly installing and protecting the roof deck, installing starter shingles is important to protect the roof from wind uplift along roof edges.
Shingling
Installing the primary layer of shingles is considered the principal element in a roofing project and is one of the most important parts of the overall hob since the shingles protect the roof deck. Quality shingles can have a lifespan of nearly a decade and can help beautify as well as protect your home. Shingles have evolved in their resistance to weathering and are designed to last longer. Beyond higher quality shingles, modern roofing includes valleys and flashing to better waterproof the roof and prevent leaks.
Ventilation & Finalizing the Roof
Ridge vents and ridge cap shingles are also a product of modern roofing that reduce hot air build-up in the attic and protect high stress areas of the roof, respectively. Ventilation in the roof is extremely important for energy efficiency and lifespan of the roof itself. This ventilation is mandated by national building codes and is built into all roofs. Ridge cap shingles are the shingles on the ridges of the roof–the highest part of the roof. These protect this part of the roof from weathering and add a nice finishing aesthetic. Constructing and repairing the modern roof requires a lot of planning and inclusion of many different components and building techniques. Quality, experienced roofing contractors and crews can get this job done efficiently and ensure that the project is in line with building standards and completed in a timely manner.
