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Residential Roofing Types
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are the most common roofing material used in residential homes. They’re affordable, versatile, and work well in all environmental conditions. Asphalt shingles come in a wide range of styles and colors, making them an easy option to match your home’s current aesthetics or upgrade the overall look of your property.
This roofing material is one of the most affordable, but it has a shorter lifespan (about 20 years) than other materials. Asphalt is also more susceptible to temperature fluctuations, resulting in peeling, cracking, or missing shingles.
Metal Roofing
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt Shingles
Another increasingly popular type of roofing being used in residential homes is metal. Although it sounds industrial, metal roofing can be constructed to look like tile, shake, and even slate roofing. When properly installed, metal roofing can last up to 60 years. The overall durability is matched with strong energy efficiency and fire resistance, which can benefit homes in at-risk areas. All-in-all, there are both pros and cons of metal roofing.
Although the initial cost can be slightly higher than other roofing materials, there are several long-term benefits. While minimal maintenance is required, metal roofing may be more susceptible to dents from hail and can make quite a bit of noise during storms.
Clay Tiles
Asphalt Shingles
Concrete Tiles
Clay tiles are extremely popular options for homes in the southwest, where the climate is hot and dry. They have a distinctive appearance with reddish-brown hues and are great at refracting heat and improving a home’s energy efficiency. The tiles are also fire-resistant and low maintenance but shouldn’t be walked on. Since clay tiles are a bit heavier, your home may also need extra support to bear the weight. However, once installed, clay tiles greatly withstand damage from strong winds and even earthquakes.
Concrete Tiles
Wood Shingles/Shakes
Concrete Tiles
It may surprise you, but concrete is another type of roofing you can choose. It has many similarities to the structure of clay tiles, except concrete is a bit more versatile in appearance. The sand0mix used to create each tile can be altered to get a specific hue for your aesthetics. The installation and advantages are very similar to clay tiles, but the cost is significantly less. However, although concrete tiles aren’t as heavy as clay tiles, they will still require a reinforced roof structure for safety and longevity.
Wood Shingles/Shakes
Wood Shingles/Shakes
Wood Shingles/Shakes
Wood roofing is another option that’s increasing in popularity. It creates a natural, rustic appearance that complements several different architectural styles. When left unstained, wood shingles start light brown in color and tend to silver over time. They can last up to 50 years, but if you have a wood roof in a dry climate, you need to take the proper precautions against fires. This includes treating your roof regularly. In wet climates, the lifespan may not last as long due to rotting or water damage. Wood shingles/shakes need regular maintenance but are an extremely environmentally friendly option as they’re completely biodegradable.
Slate Shingles
Wood Shingles/Shakes
Wood Shingles/Shakes
One of the more upscale roofing options is slate shingles. This can cost up to seven times more than traditional asphalt, but slate shingle roofs can last well into 100 years when properly installed. Plus, the appearance of slate roofing is extremely elegant as it has a smooth, natural stone appearance. It’s also fire-resistant and offers exceptional protection to your home. However, slate is a heavy material, so you will need to ensure that your home has the right structural stability to support it.
Rubber Slate Roofing
Rubber Slate Roofing
Rubber Slate Roofing
Alternatively, you could opt for rubber slate roofing, which is often made from EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer). This type of roofing material is fairly easy to install and requires very little maintenance, but the aesthetics might not be up to the standards of traditional materials. However, rubber slate is a great choice if you have a flat or low-slope roof.
Solar Tiles
Rubber Slate Roofing
Rubber Slate Roofing
Solar panels are another great option for roofing, especially if you live in a sunny environment. They allow you to blend energy efficiency with high-performing functionality in order to generate renewable energy. This, in turn, can result in long-term cost savings on energy bills and a drastic increase in overall property value. However, it’s important that you find someone who understands how to properly install solar panels, as a poor installation job can lead to extremely costly repairs down the line. Solar tiles also come with a higher initial installation cost but may be worth it, depending on your location.
Green Roofing
Rubber Slate Roofing
Synthetic Roofing Materials
An interesting new trend that’s happening around the country is green roofing. Green roofing involves the installation of vegetation (i.e., grasses or wildflowers) on the roof’s surface. This helps support pollinators and offers some natural benefits to your home as well.
Green roofs offer excellent natural insulation, reduce the heat in urban areas, and help to promote all-around environmental sustainability. However, due to the nature of green roofs, they can be fairly difficult to install and require ongoing maintenance. In fact, you’ll need to garden or landscape your roof regularly to avoid overgrowth. Since there is often added weight in soil and grass, your home will also need added structural support for safety reasons.
Synthetic Roofing Materials
Built-Up Roofing (BUR) or Membrane Roofing
Synthetic Roofing Materials
Synthetic roofing materials are one of the newest types of roofing available to install. They include things such as composite shingles or faux slate, which mimic the look of natural materials. Several types of synthetic roofing materials offer extremely high durability while keeping overall costs low. Plus, the materials are lightweight, making installation easier and maintenance stress-free. Lifespan can vary depending on the type of material you choose and the installation process, so it’s important to understand your options before making a decision. Unfortunately, synthetic roofing isn’t as environmentally friendly as other options
Built-Up Roofing (BUR) or Membrane Roofing
Built-Up Roofing (BUR) or Membrane Roofing
Built-Up Roofing (BUR) or Membrane Roofing
Built-up roofing (BUR) and membrane roofing are common options for flat roofs. Built-up roofing is constructed of asphalt, tar, adhesive, and sometimes even felt or fiberglass. The various layers are stacked on top of one another and sealed with an aggregate to create a durable, weather-resistant surface. The installation can be a little tough and BUR shouldn’t be used on sloped roofs, but they are a great option for industrial buildings or modern, flat-roofed residential homes.
Membrane roofing is made from single-ply roofing membranes like EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer), TPO (thermoplastic olefin), and PVC (polyvinyl chloride). They’re lightweight, work well with flat roofs, and carry the same advantages and disadvantages as BUR..
WHAT IS ROOF SHEATHING?
WHAT IS ROOF SHEATHING MADE OF?
There are two types of roof sheathing. It’s made of either oriented strand board (OSB) or plywood. Both materials are wood, but OSB is more lightweight and costs slightly less. Plywood is a very durable type of roof decking but tends to cost a bit more and is heavier.
Most roofers these days prefer OSB, unless they’re working with a heavier material like slate or concrete roofing tiles. In these cases, plywood is usually a better option.
WHAT DOES ROOF SHEATHING DO?
The primary function of roof sheathing is to strengthen your roof. It offers a sturdy support system on which to build the rest of your roof system.
WHAT BENEFITS DOES ROOF SHEATHING OFFER?
In addition to adding strength to your roof, roof sheathing offers an array of benefits!
HELPS STOPS LEAKS
When people first built asphalt shingle roofs a long time ago, roof sheathing wasn’t always used. Most homeowners found that without sheathing or decking, their roofs were much more likely to leak.
While today’s asphalt shingles feature several weatherproofing treatments, the additional layer of boards will give your roof another layer of protection against the elements. Since many sheathing boards are weatherproofed, this helps prolong the lifespan of your roof and keeps your home safe from water damage.
ADDS STRENGTH AND SUPPORT
Roof sheathing helps distribute weight evenly across your roof. Since sheathing boards are affixed to your roof’s trusses and joints — its strongest supporting beams — they help ensure that heavy loads of snow and precipitation don’t cause bowing or sagging.
Sheathing boards also help your roof to hold up asphalt shingles. Shingles can be a little heavier than you’d expect, and sheathing helps ensure that any weight they add is distributed evenly across the span of your roof.
FIRE PROTECTION
Roof sheathing or decking can also help prevent fires. While nothing is 100% fireproof, many roof sheathing materials come with a fire retardant treatment that can help resist fires on the roof or in the attic.
HOW TO KNOW WHEN YOU NEED NEW ROOF SHEATHING
Roof sheathing is a critical component of your overall roofing system. If yours is old, outdated, or damaged, you’ll want to have it replaced as soon as possible.
The most common reason to replace roof sheathing is when you re-roof your home, but there are a few other signs that will tell you it’s time to replace your sheathing.
BROKEN OR DAMAGED BOARDS
If you can distinctly see broken sheathing boards, it’s time for a roof replacement. It’s not hard to spot damaged sheathing, as your roof will probably sag, and you may even see sawdust and broken parts in your attic.
Sheathing board damage can happen if a lot of weight is concentrated in one area — like if a tree branch or limb falls on the roof. It can also occur if your roof is well past its expected lifespan.
WATER DAMAGE
Water damage can be dangerous for any part of your roof. If you’re seeing leaks, puddles, or water stains in your ceiling, it’s time to replace at least one element.
Sheathing water damage is particularly bad because it can affect the structure of your roof. It’s best to have water-damaged boards replaced as soon as possible.
ROTTING
If you can see parts of your roof’s sheathing beginning to rot, it’s definitely time for a replacement. Rotting sheathing is often caused by water damage, but it can be less evident if you haven’t yet seen leaks.
The best way to check for rotting sheathing is to head up to your attic with a flashlight. If sheathing has started to rot in places, you should be able to see darkened spots in the wood. If your attic isn’t too tall, you can also go around gently with a hammer or even just your hand to feel for soft spots in the wood.
LIGHT PASSING THROUGH HOLES IN THE ROOF
As a general rule, seeing the sky through your roof is a bad sign. If you head up to your attic with a flashlight and can see the light passing through holes in your roof, it’s time to call a roofer. If the light is getting through, water can get through too.
SAGGING CEILING OR ROOFLINE
The most obvious way to identify roof sheathing damage is to see sagging in your ceiling or roofline. If you’re inside and see areas of the ceiling that seem a little closer to you than others, your sheathing might be to blame.
Similarly, if you can tell from outside the home that parts of your roof are sagging, it’s time to call a roofing contractor.
Roof Leaks
What are the most common causes of Roof Leaks
A leaky roof is often caused by missing or damaged shingles, corroded metal fasteners, damaged flashings, and deteriorated or improper seals. In the Wichita area, asphalt shingles are the most common roofing material, typically lasting 15-20 years depending on their quality. Over time, weather wreaks havoc on your roof. Shingles start to dry out, crack, curl, and lift, allowing water to get underneath, especially during storms with high winds and heavy rain. Prioritize resolving these issues to protect the value and integrity of your home.
Did you know that metal fasteners and flashings are common reasons your roof may leak? The truth about roof leaks often involves cracks or corrosion, especially around skylights and chimneys. If these flashings are damaged by hail, they can allow water to seep through, leading to significant issues. Corrosion at the fasteners is another prevalent problem. Understanding these vulnerabilities can help you address potential leaks and maintain the integrity of your roof.
Why Can't I Just Fix the Leaky Roof Myself?
Attempting to Fix a Roof Leak Yourself Could Have Serious Consequences
What if you could avoid the risks and regret that come with trying to fix a leaky roof on your own? Climbing onto your roof without proper safety measures can lead to severe physical harm. Additionally, DIY roof repairs can void your homeowner's insurance and potentially cause more damage.
If you damage your own roof, repairs are generally not covered by insurance. Moreover, your roof repair claim requires documentation from an independent third party who must inspect the damage. It's also important to note that roof repairs over 500 sq. ft. require a permit and an inspection from the MABCD. Make the easy choice and avoid unnecessary risks by trusting professionals for your roof repairs.