Burlington Roofing is a complex form of building construction that involves a wide variety of materials. It’s important to understand these materials and how they work together in your roof.
Roofing provides a weatherproof barrier for buildings, protecting them from rain and other elements. Different types of roofing materials offer various benefits and features.
Plywood is a versatile wood product that offers superior strength and durability, making it an ideal choice for roofing construction. Its lightweight properties make it easy to handle and install, saving time on labor costs. In addition, it requires fewer resources than other roofing materials, contributing to reduced environmental impact. As a result, it is often more affordable than other roof types, which makes it a popular choice for homeowners on a budget.
When choosing plywood for a roof, it is important to consider the type of project and weather conditions. For example, if the area will be exposed to extreme weather conditions, choose moisture-resistant plywood to prevent damage. It is also important to ensure that the plywood is graded appropriately for its intended use. Higher-grade plywood has fewer defects and is suitable for projects that will be seen, while lower-grade options have more visible imperfections and are ideal for structural uses.
While there are many different types of plywood available, all are made using the same process. First, high-quality logs are selected and then debarked and peeled. The veneers are then dried to a certain moisture content before being glued together with an adhesive. The glue is typically phenol-formaldehyde for exterior applications or urea-formaldehyde for interior use. The glued veneers are then pressed under heat and pressure to create a strong and stable panel.
The number of layers, or plies, in a plywood sheet determines its strength and stability. Three-ply sheets are very flexible but don’t offer much strength, while five-ply sheets are stronger but still light enough for sheathing a house or roof. Plywood with seven or more plies is extremely strong but very heavy.
Regardless of the thickness and type of plywood chosen, it is essential that it be installed by a professional. Improper installation can lead to structural problems and a shorter lifespan for the roof. Whether working with plywood or OSB, it is critical that the material is properly installed to maintain the integrity of the roof and reduce maintenance costs in the long run. While there are other roofing products on the market, plywood remains a preferred option among contractors for its longevity and durability.
Oriented Strand Board (OSB)
Oriented strand board (OSB) has gained popularity as an alternative to plywood in roof and wall sheathing, subflooring, and other types of structural wood work. OSB consists of wood strands that are tightly pressed together with resin or glue under high heat and pressure, giving it great strength, stability, and resistance to shear and gravity. In addition, the control of strand size and orientation means that manufacturers can make OSB to specific performance specifications, which is important for certain projects.
Most OSB is produced in the United States and Canada at large production facilities. The manufacturing process makes use of the whole tree, utilizing crooked, knotty, and deformed wood that would otherwise go unused. The wood strands are glued together using a resin, typically phenol formaldehyde or diphenylmethane diisocyanate. The strands are then formed into mats that are approximately 6- to 8-feet wide. These mats are then loaded into a thermal press that applies pressure to the strands and binds them together by heating the resin. Once bonded, the individual mats are cut into finished panels.
The manufacturing of OSB is subject to strict quality control, and many mills have been audited by a member of the APA. Those that have passed the audit are permitted to mark their product with an APA seal of approval that verifies its compliance with APA construction standards for floor, roof, and wall sheathing in light-frame wood construction.
Some OSB manufacturers also treat their products with borate compounds, which help protect them from rot and decay. The effectiveness of these chemicals depends on the species of trees used in the production of the wood, but many manufacturers report that their OSB resists moisture damage much better than other types of structural wood, including plywood. This is one reason why it is increasingly popular to use OSB in homes in the western United States and other parts of the country that are prone to moisture problems. It is still best to choose a quality plywood for these applications, though, as it offers superior impact resistance for areas that are prone to severe weather conditions such as hail.
Metal Substrates
Metal substrates are the base layer that supports a roof’s metal panels. They can be made from a wide range of materials, including steel and aluminum. Metal substrates are a great choice for homeowners and business owners who want a durable and long-lasting roof. They also offer excellent fire resistance and can withstand high winds and hail. However, they are more expensive than other substrates.
Solid timber boarding is another popular option for roofing substrates. These are typically made from a durable, water-resistant wood and may be treated with a preservative. However, this type of substrate is prone to warping and shrinkage. It can also be prone to cracking or splitting if it is installed improperly.
Oriented strand board (OSB) is a similar type of roofing substrate. It is a more economical alternative to plywood. Like plywood, OSB is made from thin veneer layers that are bonded together with an adhesive. The benefit of using OSB is that it can be used in locations where a 1/8 inch gap must be left between boards.
Another type of substrate that works well with standing seam roofing systems is insulating board. This is usually made of rigid foam insulation, such as expanded polystyrene (EPS) or extruded polyisocyanurate (XPS). EPS and XPS offer superior thermal performance and moisture resistance. Insulating board is also more durable than plywood and can withstand high winds and hail.
A final type of roofing substrate is copper. While it offers many benefits, such as being a naturally sourced metal and being a highly durable material, copper can be costly. It is also known to stain other building materials, such as concrete and other metals. Home and business owners should be aware of this issue when considering copper as a roofing substrate and be sure to select a coating system that is designed to prevent dissimilar metal corrosion.
Coated copper substrates are available, but bare copper is still a popular choice for standing seam roofs. Although bare copper is more durable than most other substrates, it is susceptible to denting. In addition, it can oxidize and become discolored over time. It is important to consult a professional about the right metal substrate for your project.
Roof Shapes and Styles
The roof is one of the most prominent features of a home and a key element in defining its architectural style. It acts as the primary protective barrier against harsh weather conditions, influencing both energy efficiency and structural integrity. It is also one of the first things to attract attention from passersby, which is why it’s important to choose a color and design that reflects your personal aesthetic while maintaining enduring appeal.
There are many different roof shapes and styles to choose from, and each type offers unique benefits. Gable roofs, for instance, feature sloped sides that meet at a point or along a ridge and are popular for cottages and bungalows with a traditional architectural style. Hip roofs have multiple sloped sides that come together to form a pyramid shape and are ideal for homes with limited architectural style. The multiple slopes help water and debris run off the roof efficiently, preventing leaks and potential damage.
A butterfly roof, on the other hand, features a V-shaped design with slopes that point upwards instead of downward. This makes it suitable for areas with heavy rains or snowfall, as it sheds water and snow quickly. Additionally, the sloping sides allow for increased attic space that can be used as extra living space.
Another popular option is a mansard roof, which is characterised by two sloping sides that meet in the middle. This design is often used on French-inspired homes and lends a sophisticated appearance to the structure. It is also a great choice for areas with high winds, as the steeper slopes help the roof resist strong gusts.
For a more modern look, you can opt for a flat roof. These roofs have a very shallow slope and are commonly found on commercial or industrial buildings. They can be built using a variety of roofing materials, including EPDM rubber, TPO membrane, and PVC sheets.
Whether you are building a new home or renovating an existing property, it’s essential to keep up with the latest roofing trends. By choosing the right materials and maintaining a healthy roof, you can enhance your home’s aesthetic and overall value.