For the most part, people think that roofs are a straightforward part of any home, building, or similar structure. In truth, roofing systems involve a lot of engineering and several materials. It’s a key source of protection against the elements, the weather, situations like fire (especially if you have metal roofing), and more.
Roof replacement happens best between the period of March 21 to September 21. Roofing can be reshingled at other points of the year, of course, but the roofer should be a professional. That way, the method of installation can be adjusted accordingly. In some cases, the underside of shingles will need glue dots. During that time frame, heat from the sun will naturally help shingles bond. That’s because cold weather tends to lead self-adhesive strips found under shingles to be less effective.
One of the most important components in a single roof is its roof covering. Here’s what you’ll learn in this article.
This Article Contains
Roofing Material Types
From the very first time a person decided to live in a shelter, there have already been roofs. Through the years and the advancement of technology, many types of roof coverings are now available worldwide. Out of all of them, asphalt shingles are the most popular ones in the United States. On a global scale, roofing tiles are the leading preference.
Popular materials also include, but are not limited to:
- Metal roofing
- Slate tiles
- Wood shakes
In some parts of the world, a preferred trend involves green roofs.
Roof Covering
When the word “roof” comes up in conversation, what’s the first image that comes to mind? Whatever that image is color-wise or whatnot, that’s pretty much roof covering. It’s the most visible part of a roofing system, taking on most of the responsibility to protect a home. Additionally, it is waterproof, which helps in addressing rain, snow, and similar elements.
Bituminous Felts or Tar
These are the key to elevating roof construction so that it’s more leak-proof. It should be noted that by themselves, they’re not roof covering materials. If anything, it’s laid over a sub-structure because it’s serving as a membrane. The chances of bituminous felt disintegrating or cracking are little to none. However, they have no aesthetic appeal at all. Their structure is not able to support itself either, hence the need for a substructure to be made before getting laid out.
When someone makes the decision to get their roof redone, picking out the roof covering is a key decision to make.
Which Roof Covering Is the Best Option?
The short answer to this question is: it depends. There are multiple considerations to make that can count towards a certain roof covering being the best possible option a person can make. Good starter points include the following factors:
- Aesthetic appeal
- Annual mean temperatures
- Type of home
- Type of weather in the area
Another point of consideration for roof covering is what is allowed in the neighborhood by the person’s homeowners’ association (HOA).
Roof Covering Material Types
- Asbestos Cement Sheets
These are alternatively called “A. C. sheets.” Sloped roofs are typically where this material is found and used most. As the name suggests, it’s a mix of powdered asbestos and cement. It brings many advantages, such as fire resistance, durability, and being lightweight. Moreover, it’s not liable to getting eaten by insects or decaying. The two main types are ‘big six type’ and ‘Trafford,’ which come in several lengths within the 1.5 m to 3 m range.
- Glass Covering
This is a rather uncommon roof covering; it’s usually for commercial structures. That means factories, industrial buildings, and more use this so that light can enter the building from the roof. As roof covering options go, this is on the pricier end of things. Experienced, highly skilled roofers are the only ones who can successfully conduct glass covering installation. Should it break, it can create a high-risk situation at the workplace. A key hazard factor lies in industrial machines’ vibrations, which can contribute to damaging the glass covering.
- Solar Roof Tiles/Solar Shingles
Aside from being used as roofing material, solar roof tiles help to generate electricity since they’re photovoltaic modules. This means that electricity is produced by capturing sunlight. It’s quite affordable, though the price depends on factors like installation, region, specification, and manufacturer.
- Thatch
Constructing a thatch roof covering is quite simple, and it’s priced cheaply as well. In fact, it’s typically found in low-cost housing in rural areas. It’s supported with a framework using round bamboo rafters, then split bamboo is put over rafters to keep them together. Rafters could also be made out of wooden bullies. When the framework has been created, ropes or wires are used to fasten thatch to it.
If affordability is a crucial factor when making a roof covering decision, this is a great way to go.
- Tiles
These are one of the most classic roof covering materials available, dating back to the olden days. There is a wide range of shapes, sizes, and specifications of tile available out there. Tile names are easy enough to follow since they’re usually based on size and shape. Classification according to shape involves plain tiles and curved pan tiles.
Plain tiles are generally rectangular, and they’re also called flat tiles. Curved pantiles are molded as a flat shape before getting the needed curvature; however, they’re less curved than pot tiles.
- Wood Shingles
These are rectangular, thin timber boards that are a mere centimeter thick. The board’s breadth varies within the 6.5 cm and 25 cm range, while the length can be anywhere from 30 to 40 cm. They’re not used very much because they don’t respond well to atmospheric effects. They’re prone to cracking and/or decaying as time passes.
Conclusion
In order for a house to be protected from the likes of environmental hazards, disasters, and more, it’s key for your roof to have a cover. There are several types of roof covering materials available on the market. Popular ones include thatch, glass covering, and solar roof tiles.
Trying to find reputable, professional sources for roofing in Raleigh, NC? Drop Southern Premier Roofing a line today! Southern Premier Roofing is a national brand serving clients in Raleigh, Charlotte, and Fayetteville, NC, as well as Boise ID. We can’t wait to help you meet your roofing needs with great quality.
