View Larger Image

Installation Tips For The Various Kinds of Roofs!

Roof installations of various types require specific skills depending on the materials.

New roofs are costly and possibly the single most expensive improvement that homeowners will make to their homes over time.

To achieve a great roof installation regardless of the type, the right roofing contractors must be hired for the job.

From shingles to metal to ceramic tiles, here are some specifics about these different roofs and why finding a roofing company experienced with these materials is so important.

1. Asphalt and Wood Shingle Roofing

Asphalt shingle roof installations are the most common and possibly the easiest to do in comparison to other types of roofing.

Wood shingles are also popular and relatively simple to apply; however, this does not suggest that homeowners should put on their own shingle roofs, especially today.

The asphalt shingle products used by most roofing contractors are much more advanced than the old, flat 3-tab styles, requiring a more specific and precise installation process.

Wood shingles and shakes require a trained hand to properly nail them in place.

A watertight, protective shingle roof depends greatly on the spaces and amount of overlap between rows of shingles, all of which can differ depending on the specific type and style of shingles.

Though the premise of installing shingles might seem easy, shingle manufacturers typically demand that contractors use a specific installation technique with their products and will otherwise void any warranties.

2. Metal Roofing

With regard to metal roofing, there are two critical details that must be considered to achieve a watertight, windproof installation, those being material choice and fastener application.

Roofing companies install a variety of metal products, from straight and standing seam panels to metal panels pressed into shingle forms to metal individual shingles, with each type available in different thicknesses and different protective features.

The best option will depend on many factors about the home and the local climate.

Additionally, a metal roof installation requires specific fasteners depending on the products chosen and a skilled fastener installation that is neither too tight nor too loose.

Once again, the materials manufacturers cannot warrant their products unless installed by a contractor trained to install their specific products, as it is the fasteners that create the integrity of the whole system.

3. Tile Roofing

Although clay, cement, and even slate tiles are almost the same as individual shingles, they require a more specific installation to safely keep them in place.

Roofing contractors install tiles of various types with copper, corrosion-proof nails, lug fasteners, wire clips, adhesives, or more than one of these methods depending on the product.

Getting the tile straight and aligning with the right amount of overlap is critical to the installation.

Considering that poor fastening is known to be the main cause of tile roof failure, hiring a roofing company with experience in the specificity type of tile being installed is critical.

Always Hire An Experienced Roofing Contractor

Roof installation may not seem that difficult but in reality, each system has its own particulars that are required to ensure the best installation process.

While most roofing contractors are skilled in various types of asphalt shingle installations, premium shingle products, and other materials like metal and tile require other specific skills.

Homeowners should interview roofing companies to ensure they have the training for the roof being purchased to guarantee getting the roof they pay for!