Roofing is a challenging and exciting form of building construction. There are 64 practical roof types, including asphalt shingle roofs; metal roofs constructed from copper or aluminum; and tile roofs that add a touch of classic beauty to buildings.
A properly functioning roof is vital for a comfortable living environment. Regular inspections and prompt repairs can minimize damage. Contact Buckeye Roofing of Columbus now!
Roofs serve a critical function in our homes and business, shielding us from the elements, providing insulation and keeping temperatures comfortable. The history of roofing is as varied as the materials used to construct it, from the earliest primitive shelters to modern roofing solutions that are adapted to our changing lifestyles.
The very earliest roofs were made of natural, readily available materials. One of the first was fashioned out of the skin of a woolly mammoth found in Siberia around 42,000 years ago, and early civilizations continued to use various combinations of animal parts, wood and mud until the first clay tiles appeared in ancient Greece and Rome.
These were fired in kilns to harden them, and the interlocking design created a sturdy material that held up well against rain. They became a staple in Mediterranean architecture, and they spread to other regions of the world that enjoyed warm weather, including Africa, Asia and Australia.
Thatching also appeared in these equatorial settings, with people using straw, reeds and other dried vegetation to fashion roofs. This type of roofing worked very well in those climates, but it was highly flammable and required constant maintenance to prevent decay and pest infestations.
In the 18th and 19th centuries, Europeans brought their centuries-old metalworking skills to America’s shores, turning copper pieces into low-slope roofing that was soldered together on site. Thatching remained popular among American pioneers, however, as it was easy to find and provided adequate insulation in their rudimentary prairie houses.
When the first settlers came to the United States, they brought with them a love of wood and the abundant forests from which it could be harvested. Western red cedar was a favorite, but pine, oak, eastern white cedar and Cypress were also used depending on availability.
In the 1920s, rolled materials began to appear that were easier and less labor-intensive than individual shakes and shingles. This was a major advancement in roofing, because it allowed large industrial buildings to be covered with roofs that could be fabricated in sections instead of being constructed of unitized pieces like split cedar shakes or heavy slate.
Materials
The type of roof material you choose can significantly affect the aesthetic of your home. In addition, re-roofing projects give you the opportunity to upgrade your insulation and ventilation strategies for energy efficiency. These upgrades will also improve your home’s resale value and comfort.
Asphalt shingles are the classic roofing material you see on most homes. They are a cost-effective, durable option that is easy to install and repair. They come in a variety of styles and colors. Some shingles are made to be energy efficient, reflecting sunlight and reducing cooling costs in warm weather.
Concrete tiles are another durable roofing option, molded and fired for durability. They are a popular choice in coastal communities and areas prone to wildfires. They are more affordable than clay tile and can last up to 50 years. They are available in a range of styles from the half-tube shape of barrel roofs to the French version with ridges that encourage rain to shed off and help lock neighboring tiles together. Square-edged flat versions work well with modernist architectural designs.
Rolled roofing is a basic option used on low-slope residential roofs and outbuildings like sheds and workshops. It consists of long rolls of mineral-impregnated and asphalt-impregnated material topped with mineral granules and may be attached using heat or roofing nails. It is one of the cheapest roofing materials, but it doesn’t provide much in the way of aesthetics.
Metal is an increasingly popular roofing option. Standing-seam metal roofs consist of panels of galvanized steel, aluminum or a zinc alloy called Galvalume that are joined together with raised ridges. The ridges create an attractive profile and are highly resistant to extreme weather conditions. Copper and other precious metals are often used for decorative features on these roofs.
Built-up roofing (BUR) was the most common roofing material before membrane roofing came along. It is durable, watertight and can be repaired or redone relatively easily. However, it releases hazardous fumes during installation and is prone to leakage. It’s also heavy, putting stress on the structure of a house, and can become brittle in cold weather.
Shapes and Styles
There are many different shapes and styles of roofs. They reflect cultural heritage, environmental adaptation, and architectural innovation. Each one tells its own unique story.
Gable roofs, which resemble the classic triangular peaked structure you probably drew with a box of crayons as a kid, are common among contemporary and modern building styles. They also feature dual slopes that help with rainwater drainage. Colonial homes and Greek Revival architecture utilize side-gable roofs that can be punctuated by dormers for visual appeal.
A gambrel roof is similar to a gable roof in that it has two sloped sides, but it’s more of a curved shape and is typically found on barns and rustic houses. A mansard roof features a lower and steeper slope, often punctuated by dormers, and is standard among French-style buildings.
A monitor roof has long sides that allow property owners to install clerestory windows, which can boost lighting and air circulation within a building. They are a popular choice for green homes, as their sloping sides allow plants to grow, which can act as natural insulation and moderate building temperatures.
Installation
The roof is an integral part of any home, office or commercial space. It safeguards the interiors against damage from the weather and keeps people comfortable, safe and healthy. Choosing the right roofing for your space can be difficult, especially since there are so many options to choose from.
Professional roofing contractors have the experience needed to guide you through the process of selecting and installing your ideal roof. They know all of the safety protocols for working on rooftops and can use specialized tools like ladders and harnesses safely. Before the crew starts work, they will prepare your property by covering any surrounding objects with tarps or wooden boards so that any debris falling off the roof doesn’t damage anything underneath it. They will also cover your attic, move any vehicles away from the house and position garbage cans so that any debris falls into them instead of your yard.
They will also install underlayment and felt paper, which are a protective barrier against water infiltration even if the top layer of your roof gets damaged. Finally, they will waterproof the valleys, which are the areas where your roof slopes meet at a “V” shape. They will do this by using special adhesives and flashing.