Ellingon Roofing LLC is the exterior covering that protects a building’s inhabitants from rain, snow, bitter cold, intense sunlight, and wind. Since time immemorial, people have used many materials to cover roofs.
The main components of a roof include sheathing (typically OSB or plywood), attic insulation ice and water barriers, shingles, and flashing.
Roofing materials protect the outermost surface of a building structure from rain, snow, direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Hundreds of different types of roofing materials are available for a homeowner to choose from and each offers a unique aesthetic for the building or structure. When selecting a roofing material, homeowners should consider several factors such as cost, durability and fire resistance. Roofing products can also add value to a home or business and can help increase energy efficiency.
Traditionally, the most common roofing materials have been natural products like thatched straw or sticks and mud. These materials were used since the construction of the first primitive shelters and have been preserved in a variety of archaeological sites from the prehistoric era. As civilization progressed, the development of more sophisticated roofing structures grew as well. These advanced structures utilized materials such as wood, stone and metal.
Today, the vast majority of roofs are made from shingles, asphalt shingles or clay tile. Each of these options offers a unique look and style for the exterior of the home, but they all offer similar functionalities such as weatherproofing, insulation and vapor barriers. The primary factor in selecting a roof material should be the native climate of the area where the home is located as some materials are not appropriate for certain regions.
Shingles are among the most popular residential roofing materials and come in a wide range of colors, shapes, sizes and textures. They are typically composed of several varieties of hard and soft woods, while asphalt shingles combine various additives such as rocks, sand or glass. Clay tiles are another aesthetically pleasing option that is often seen in Spanish and Italian-style homes. They can be unglazed or factory-fired in a variety of shades to match the design of the house.
Roof sheathing is the wooden framework that supports the shingles or other roofing materials. It is a crucial part of the entire roofing system because it provides a solid base for any additional layers or coverings. In addition, roof sheathing can protect the interior of a home from mold and mildew. Moreover, a properly installed roof sheathing will prevent leaks and help to increase the overall value of the home.
Installation
Roof installation is a labor-intensive, meticulous process that requires a great deal of expertise. It can be a big project to take on yourself, and it’s definitely something you want to leave to the professionals. Before starting the job, roofing crews get set up by finding a way to access your roof and getting their equipment ready to go. They also cover your yard and garden (with tarps or wooden boards) to protect it from debris, and they move things around the base of your home to prevent damage.
A new roof is installed by running a row of underlayment over the entire surface of your roof, nailing it firmly to the decking. The underlayment will be nailed down close to the edges, then spread out farther toward the center of the roof. Flashing is applied where roof planes meet and around chimneys. This protects the area from rain, hail, ice and extreme temperatures. The final product is a beautiful, protective covering for your home that will serve you well for years to come.
Maintenance
The roof of a home is subject to assault from wind, rain, snow, bitter cold, intense sunlight and other elements. The best you can do to help it resist damage is a thorough maintenance regimen that includes cleaning the gutters regularly, and inspecting the soffit and fascia to ensure they’re secure. The flashing around chimneys and vent pipes needs to be replaced periodically, as does the caulking where roof planes meet to prevent water leaks. Keeping a few basic repair tools on hand, like a hammer and a pry bar, can allow you to address small issues quickly and prevent them from escalating into major problems. Keeping your roof free from debris, and repairing cracks and leaks promptly, will extend its life.
Roofing is constructed in many forms, including flat, pitched, vaulted or domed, and can be covered with a variety of materials.
Repairs
Rather than dealing with problems as they arise, proactive roof repair can extend the lifespan of your roofing and protect your home. It is a smart and cost-effective way to prevent small issues from becoming large and costly. Regular repairs and regular inspections will identify leaks, loose or missing shingles, and other signs of wear and tear that can be exacerbated by weather conditions.
In addition, roof repair can include the installation of insulation to enhance energy efficiency. A compromised roof can cause air leaks that allow conditioned air to escape and external air to infiltrate, forcing your heating and cooling systems to work harder. However, proper installation and maintenance of your insulation can significantly reduce your energy bills and promote a sustainable living environment.
Repairing your roof can also include repairing or replacing flashing that has become weakened by water or wind damage. Flashing is a thin sheet of metal that is placed around the roof penetrations and valleys, such as chimneys, pipes, vents, and other features. A professional will ensure that all flashing is properly installed and sealed, which will prevent water and other materials from entering the building.
There are two other types of roof repair: re-roofing and partial replacement. Re-roofing involves placing a second layer of shingles on top of the existing ones. This can be done to address a small section of the roof or to restore an old and worn roof. However, re-roofing isn’t the best option for addressing structural problems, and it can create a patchwork appearance that can be unattractive.
A more extensive repair is partial replacement, which involves removing a section or side of the roof and installing new shingles that are merged with the existing ones. It is a good solution when the roof has substantial damage but isn’t yet at risk of leaking or collapsing.