Universal Group Inc: Roofs 101: Materials, Methods, Do's and Dont's

The roof can be considered the head of the house, that's why it's so important.

Roof remodeling (or roofing) is a significant home improvement project. As homeowners, it is necessary to spend time researching every aspect of the project from the roofing material and the shingle color you choose, to the contractor completing the work.

Upgrading your home’s roof allows you to add value to the structure and communicate your home's look and feel. On the topic of roof framing, preparation and proper installation are always important, the material you choose for your roof can bring the exterior of your home to the next level.

Dear United Group: what’s the best material for my roof?

Dear reader: what style do you wish for your roof? That’s the first question to be asked. You must determine what look you're going for and the style you want because the roof is one of the most visible parts of the house facade. Also consider how long you think you'll be in the house, which will, in turn, determine the type of product you should use.

It’s imperative to consider certain notions, whether this look complements your entire exterior. Also, try to think in terms of dollars per year; this means, if you use the thinnest and cheapest composition shingle roof in a Hail area, you can't expect to get too many years of life out of your roof.

A note from the pros: a composition shingle is anything made from materials like asphalt and a base material such as fiberglass, polyester or any other matte material that may be impregnated with asphalt or covered in a granular surface.

The second factor should be costs (as all things housework-related). Composition shingles are the best value regarding prices, but tile roofs are a lot more durable and offer an indefinite lifespan. They can be fragile and subject to breakage when manipulating, however. Just make sure the material you choose fits within the budget you've allowed.

The final factor to consider when choosing roofing materials is the location. If you live in a heavy snowfall or rainfall area, the harsh conditions may dictate what help you decide on materials, as well as how steep a pitch, your roof should have. For example, snowfall areas should avoid clay tile because they can quickly become damaged or succumb to the pressure and weight. You also want to avoid flat roofs, which can allow snow to accumulate and which, left unchecked, can severely damage your home. On the other hand, In the Midwest and on the East Coast, you'll tend to see steeper roofs than you will on the West Coast. Functionality is essential as well as form since homeowners like to get the snow off their roofs as quickly as possible.

Roofing in the South takes a different approach than roofing on the West Coast, in general, because of the rainfall amounts. Southerners are often dealing with a more significant threat of heavy rain than their Western counterparts, and their roofs not only are designed to handle the rain but should also be designed to evacuate that water from the surrounding property.

Some of the roofing materials that work well in areas of constant rainfall are the ones with concrete tiles and composition shingles. This is because they are more effective as of evacuating the snow and rain from the roof.

The do’s and don'ts of roofing

It is in our best interest to help you improve your home, so here at United Group, we’ve put together a list of helpful and practical do’s and don’ts from beginning to end to serve as a guide on your way through the decision-making process.

Do make sure that the materials you paid for are put to use on your roof. These materials include starter shingles along the edge of the roof as well as the ones that are up to the rake. You must have felt paper covering the whole house. Ice and water protection must be in the valleys, some companies use metal, and others use rubber type membrane.

Do ask for references and call and check out the company that you want to work with (like us, for example). Make sure they are licensed, insured, and that they're going to be there if you have a problem.

Do make sure that you get a ridge cap put on your ridge.

Now, as of the don’ts…

Don't allow the contractor to lead you into not overseeing the work being done on your home or business. If they can't answer a few questions about what they’re doing you should ask yourself if you choose the right company (never work with unprofessional people).

Don't allow children to be in the work area since there is always the chance something could fall and injure someone.

Don't let yourself be talked into taking shortcuts that will cost you more in the long run. Having felt the paper, starter shingles, drip edge, ice and water, flashing and caulk is a must on all jobs.

Don't be afraid to ask for these implements, since it is your right as the homeowner, business owner or as a commercial contractor.

Don't allow seconds and defective shingles to be used on your roof. Defective shingles don't have warranties and will carry consequences on the structure.

Did you know all the facts and tips about roofing? When it comes to improving and upgrading homes, here at Universal Group Inc we pride ourselves on working with professionalism and effectiveness. Put your home in our hands, and don’t forget to follow us on our social networks to learn more about what we can offer to your property! Don’t hesitate in contacting us with any questions, suggestions and future contracting opportunities to make your home or business use energy in the most efficient way possible.