The roof is an important part of the structure of a building. It protects against weather and helps to regulate the temperature inside.
When a storm is approaching, it’s important to inspect your roof for damage and repair leaks promptly. Learn more about roofing and its history, so you can appreciate this crucial building element even more. For professional guidance, you can contact EZ Roofing of Flagler County.
As long as humans have existed, they have needed shelter from the elements. Roofing has evolved to meet these needs, growing over time with the changing demands and aesthetics of societies. From caves and primitive huts to sophisticated, multi-functional roofs of today, the history of roofing is a testament to human ingenuity and the quest for better housing.
From 40,000 BC, when wooly mammoth skins and animal hides were the primary roofing materials to wattle and daub structures and wood shingles, human ingenuity has found creative ways to protect ourselves from the harsh elements. Even the most basic of dwellings required a roof to provide protection from rain, sun and wind.
Prehistoric people fashioned reeds, animal hides and branches into simple huts and tents to shield them from the weather. As civilizations developed, they invented new building materials that allowed for more advanced designs and constructions, such as mud and clay houses with conical roofs made of reeds and branches.
In the 18th century, American roofers started to treat wooden shingles for durability and longevity. They used pine pitch and linseed oil to keep the wood from rotting in moisture-prone areas. The shingles were then colored with brick dust and mineral pigments to yield different shades for aesthetic purposes.
In the mid-to-late 1800s, asphalt shingles began to replace the early rolled roofing material that consisted of felt or woven fabric saturated with pine tar and sprinkled with sand. By the late 19th century, coal tar, a byproduct of gas light production, was substituted for the more expensive pine tar. This substitution was a major advancement for the roofing industry, as it reduced fire risks and was more affordable.
Materials
There are many different roofing materials from which homeowners can choose, depending on their personal preferences and the conditions of their local climate. A few common options include clay tiles, wood shakes and shingles, rolled roofing, metal sheeting and concrete. Some of these roofing materials are also used for decorative purposes, adding an element of style to the appearance of a house.
The frame of a roof can be made from rafters cut on-site or prefabricated trusses that are craned into place. A sheathing layer of plywood or oriented strand board (OSB) is then attached to the rafters or trusses. The sheathing helps seal the frame from moisture and protects it from pests.
Another type of roofing is the built-up roof, or BUR, which consists of three to five plies of bitumen-coated organic felt or coated fiberglass felts. These plies are bonded to each other and to the substrate with hot asphalt, coal tar pitch, or manufactured cold adhesive. A thick flood coat of the same material is then applied to the surface, followed by gravel, mineral granules or a reflective coating.
Asphalt shingles are the most popular roofing material in the United States, due to their low cost and long lifespan. They are available in a variety of colors and styles, including a number of “shake” or scalloped looks. For homeowners interested in a greener option, there are also organic wood shingles and Mediterranean-inspired clay tiles.
For flat or low-sloped roofs, membrane roofing is usually the choice. These roofs are often constructed with EPDM, a synthetic rubber, or other durable plastics. They are relatively inexpensive and can be installed quickly over existing roofs. They do not add the same amount of value to a home as slate or tile, but they are durable and weather resistant.
Slate, terra cotta and concrete tiles provide beauty and texture to the roof while providing durability. These tile types are a good choice for warm climates, as they reflect heat rather than absorbing it. Slate and terra cotta can be expensive, however, and require extensive framing support.
Installation
Roofing is more than just the tangible outer covering of your home or commercial space; it’s also the process of installing and maintaining that shield. Whether you need to replace an old roof or install one for the first time, this comprehensive guide will walk you through the roofing process from start to finish. We’ll discuss everything from the different types of roofing materials to installation and maintenance advice.
The First Steps
Once the roofing crew has access to your property, they will begin by setting up protective measures. Tarps will be placed over any landscaping or shrubbery around the base of your home, and any open drains will be covered to prevent small pieces of debris from clogging them. The contractor will also cover your attic and move any furniture off of the patio or deck to protect it from falling debris.
Then, they will install underlayment. This material acts as a second line of defense, protecting against leaks and water infiltration even if the shingles are damaged. The contractor will overlap the first row of underlayment by at least six inches and nail it down in a pattern that starts close to the edge and gradually spreads outward. They will repeat this process for the rest of the underlayment, ensuring that every area is fully protected.
Once the underlayment is in place, the shingles will be installed. The contractor will carefully match up the colors and textures to create a seamless appearance. The shingle caps will be sealed to the bottom of the underlayment with a layer of caulking, and the valleys will be waterproofed with flashing and felt paper. Ventilation and insulation are also checked during this phase to ensure that the new roof is up to code and will function properly.
Maintenance
A home or commercial space’s roof is its main defense against weather conditions, and the condition of that shield can have a direct impact on a building’s interior and structural integrity. Performing regular maintenance can help keep your roof in good condition, and avoid costly repairs in the future. It’s important to be aware of common roofing issues, including leaks and damaged shingles. These issues can lead to significant damage and expensive repairs if not addressed promptly.
Routine maintenance includes cleaning and debris removal, examining gutters and downspouts for blockages, trimming tree branches to prevent rubbing against the roof surface, and treating moss or algae growth. It is also crucial to inspect the flashing and seals around chimneys, vents, skylights and exhaust fans for damage or wear, and replace any deteriorated areas.
Fall and winter are prime seasons for roof maintenance. A good start is clearing the roof and gutters of leaves and debris to ensure proper drainage. It’s also important to inspect and repair any problems found, especially before the cold weather arrives.
If your roof is due for an inspection or in need of repair, contact us to set up a time that fits your schedule. A member of our team will meet with you to discuss your needs and determine the best approach for your building. Our crews are fully insured and trained to perform the type of maintenance your facility requires. We will submit a roster of crew members to you, and you can run background checks on each person before they arrive at your building.