A Homeowner’s Guide to Understanding Residential Roofing
Asphalt shingles are favored by homeowners for their affordability, easy installation, and variety of styles and colors to match home aesthetics.
Whether constructing a new home or replacing the old roof, understanding residential roofing is essential. This guide explains the basics of residential roofing to help homeowners make informed decisions as a homeowner.
Why understanding residential roofing matters
Misconceptions and lack of knowledge about the different types, materials, and costs involved in residential roofing can lead to future problems and unnecessary expenses. By understanding the basics of residential roofing, homeowners can ensure the maximum lifespan for their roof while maintaining its aesthetic and functional value.
Understanding different types of roofs
Before delving into the types of materials used, it is crucial to understand the types of roof structures that differ based on slope, design, and complexity.
Gable Roofs: These roofs are also called pitched or peaked roofs and are some of the most common in the US. Homeowners can easily recognize them by their triangular shape.
Hip Roofs: These roofs have a slope on all sides, which are all equal in length and meet at a single point on the top.
Mansard Roofs: A mansard roof is a four-sided, gambrel-style hip roof. This roof is recognisable by the two slopes on each side of the building; the lower slope is steeper than the upper one.
Flat Roofs: Although the name suggests a perfectly level roof, flat roofs appear flat but have a slight pitch for water drain-off and drainage.
Understanding residential roofing material options
In addition to the types of roofs, a wide array of material options are available for residential roofing, each with its benefits, drawbacks, and costs.
Asphalt shingles
Asphalt shingles are popular for homeowners due to their low cost and easy installation process. They come in various styles and colors, allowing homeowners to match their home’s aesthetics.
Metal roofing
Metal roofing, including materials such as steel and aluminum, is durable and immune to extreme weather conditions. Although it is more expensive than asphalt, its longevity can justify the price.
Tile and cement roofing
Tile and cement roofs are known for their remarkable aesthetic appeal and durability. However, they are pretty heavy, requiring additional structural support, which can increase the cost.
Roofing cost considerations
The cost of a new roof varies based on factors such as the size of the house, the type of material chosen, the labor involved, and the location. Always request detailed estimates from roofing contractors before making a decision.
Importance of professional installation and maintenance
Proper installation and maintenance by a professional roofing company are vital factors in extending a roof’s lifespan. A reputable roofing company will pride itself on providing exceptional installation and maintenance services for all residential roofing.
Understanding residential roofing basics can save homeowners significant future costs and hassles.
Irish Roofing Company provides Scottsdale with roof inspection, installation, sealing and repair. We offer shingle services, tile roof services, flat roof services, roof cleaning, roof inspection, roof installation, leak repair, roof recovering, roof repair, roof sealing, skylight installation and replacement, and wood shake services for commercial and residential customers.
