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Roofing 101

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Replacing your roof, whether a single family home, a multi-unit residential complex, or a commercial building is one of the most critical financial decisions you will make regarding your dwelling. Choosing the right professional roofing contractor can make the difference in both the process and the results. Hopefully, this information will make you a more knowledgeable consumer and, when the time comes, a smart roof system buyer.

While price is a factor, it should not be the deciding factor. There is always a trade-off between price and quality. It is very important to know what standards you are buying, what you are receiving in terms of materials and workmanship, as well as the assurance of knowing the service extends after the work is completed.

Bosworth Roofing & Remodeling specializes in steep, low-slope, and flat roof replacement. Our professional team of roofing installers is committed to providing excellent service and a high quality finished product.

Steep and Low-Slope Roof System Components

All steep and low-slope roof systems (i.e., roofs with slopes of 25 percent or more) have five basic components:

Choosing a Roof System

There are a number of things to consider when selecting a new roof system. Of course, cost and durability head the list, but aesthetics and architectural style are important, too. The right roof system for your home or building is one that balances these five considerations. The following roofing products are most commonly used for steep-slope structures.

Asphalt shingles possess an overwhelming share of the U.S. steep-slope roofing market and can be reinforced with organic or fiberglass materials. Although asphalt shingles reinforced with organic felts have been around much longer, fiberglass-reinforced products now dominate the market.

Asphalt shingles' fire resistances, like most other roofing materials, are categorized by Class A, B or C. Class A signifies the most fire-resistant; Classes B and C denote less fire resistance. Generally, most fiberglass shingles have Class A fire ratings, and most organic shingles have Class C ratings.

A shingle's reinforcement has little effect on its appearance. Organic and fiberglass products are available in laminated (architectural) grades that offer a textured appearance. Zinc or copper-coated ceramic granules also can be applied to organic or fiberglass products to protect against algae attack, a common problem in warm, humid parts of the United States. Both types of shingles also are available in a variety of colors.

Regardless of their reinforcing type and appearance, asphalt shingles' physical characteristics vary significantly. When installing asphalt shingles, NRCA recommends use of shingles that comply with American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) standards-ASTM D 225 for organic shingles and ASTM D 3462 for fiberglass shingles. These standards govern the composition and physical properties of asphalt shingles; not all asphalt shingles on the market comply with these standards. If a shingle product complies with one of these standards, it is typically noted in the manufacturer's product literature and on the package wrapper.

Slate is quarried in the United States in Vermont, New York, Pennsylvania and Virginia. It is available in different colors and grades, depending on its origin. Considered virtually indestructible, it is, however, more expensive than other roofing materials. In addition, its application requires special skill and experience. Many old homes, especially in the Northeast, still are protected by this long-lasting roofing material. Please Note: At this time, Bosworth Roofing & Remodeling does not replace nor repair slate roofing.

Flat Roof System Components

The components of flat roof systems are very similar to the components of steep and low-slope except the roof covering consists of a rubber membrane and fiberboard that protects the sheathing from weather. The other 4 components are the same.

Ventilation and Insulation Are Key

One of the most critical factors in roof system durability is proper ventilation. Without it, heat and moisture build up in an attic area and combine to cause rafters and sheathing to rot, shingles to buckle, and insulation to lose its effectiveness.

Therefore, it is important never to block off sources of roof ventilation, such as louvers, ridge vents or soffit vents, even in winter. Proper attic ventilation will help prevent structural damage caused by moisture, increase roofing material life, reduce energy consumption and enhance the comfort level of the rooms below the attic.

In addition to the free flow of air, insulation plays a key role in proper attic ventilation. An ideal attic has:

Even Roofs Have Enemies

A roof system's performance is affected by numerous factors. Knowing about the following will help you make informed roof system buying decisions: