Roofing is a challenging yet rewarding form of building construction. Roofers make, repair, and replace a significant variety of practical types of roofs – 64 to be exact!

Your roof is a silent guardian that safeguards your home from the elements. But like any structure, it needs care. Contact Erie Roofing now!

Ever since early humans began settling down to live in one place, they’ve shared the same basic need for shelter from the elements. While some pre-historic people retreated into caves for safety and protection, others built simple homes of branches, stones and mud to keep them from weather and animals. As the human race progressed, so too did the roof, becoming a vital part of building construction.

The first roofs were constructed from whatever materials were readily available to the builders of that time. This included things like animal skins, leaves, sticks and mud. Depending on the climate, different types of roofing materials were used. For instance, palm fronds were a popular choice in tropical areas while dried grasses and twigs were common in northern regions.

Around 735 AD, the next major leap in roofing took place when thatching was developed and implemented. The earliest thatched roofs were made from woven straw, reeds and heather which was very effective in keeping out rain and snow but could be flammable and susceptible to mold growth.

Clay tiles became very popular during the Roman era and spread throughout Europe. They were created in kilns and were quite durable, offering long-lasting protection. They were also highly decorative, allowing builders to create a number of unique designs on their structures.

In the early days of America, home builders would hand split cedar wood shingles for their roofs. The durable and attractive natural material was a favorite of European settlers across the country.

As time went on, manufacturers began to treat shingle surfaces with pine pitch and linseed oil to protect them from sun, rain and other elements that can cause premature deterioration. In the 19th century, people also started to paint their shingles for additional aesthetic appeal and as an added layer of protection from the elements.

During this period, skilled builders also specialized in residential and commercial roofing so that individual homeowners no longer had to be jacks of all trades. Today, roofing is an intricate process that includes the installation and maintenance of everything from waterproof membranes to insulators and venting systems. The modern roofing industry continues to evolve and improve, reflecting the needs of its customers.

Materials

While there are many roofing materials to choose from, the most common options for residential roofs include asphalt shingles and concrete and clay tiles. Modern roofing technology has also introduced energy-efficient and eco-friendly features such as reflective shingles and solar panels.

Asphalt shingle roofing is the standard for most homeowners and consists of thin strips of mineral-impregnated, asphalt-based material topped with colored, ceramic-based granules. It is one of the least expensive roofing options and offers decent protection from the elements. Its drawbacks include a limited life span and poor aesthetics.

Metal roofing is available in a variety of colors and styles, and stands up well to extreme weather conditions. The most popular metal roofing is galvanized steel, although aluminum-zinc alloy (Galvalume) and copper are available as well. Standing seam metal roofs are more expensive than shingle roofing but offer superior durability.

Slate roofing is another high-end option that can add an architectural flair to your home. It is usually found on older buildings and comes in a range of colors. Slate has a long lifespan and is fire-resistant. However, its weight and installation require special support.

A rubber slate is a relatively new roofing material that looks much like a traditional slate roof. It is highly durable and has a life expectancy of up to 100 years. It is installed by experienced roofing professionals and may require periodic maintenance.

Other traditional roofing materials include wood shingles (sawn from bolts of cedar) and other hardwoods, which are often used for historic restorations. The longevity of these roofs depends on the climate and condition; in dry conditions, they can last up to 60 years. In damp areas, they must be regularly maintained to avoid mold growth and insect infestations.

Another low-cost roofing material is rolled roofing, which is usually applied in large sheets and is available in either a felt or synthetic underlayment. Felt underlayment is less expensive but doesn’t provide as much protection from water and other weather conditions as synthetic underlayment. Synthetic underlayment is made from woven/spun polyethylene or polypropylene and is available in white, gray or tan.

Shapes and Styles

There are many shapes and styles of roofing, each with its own unique features. From the A-frame to the modern Skillion, each style serves a different purpose and tells a story. The roof is often a home’s most noticeable feature, and it is important to consider the shape when choosing a roofing material.

The gable roof shape is the standard triangle with shorter edges that run parallel to side walls. This is a common shape for houses and has the benefit of dual slopes that shed water well. Front gable roofs are common in colonial architecture, while side gable roofs are commonly found on Georgian or Greek Revival homes.

A mansard roof has two sloped sides that can be flat or curved. The lower slope is much steeper than the upper, and it can be punctuated with dormers for added floor space. This is a popular style for French-inspired architecture and can be found on apartments, townhouses, and commercial buildings.

A clerestory roof features a section of wall built on the ridge of a double-pitched roof, which allows for large windows and boosts natural light in a building’s interior. This type of roof is common in older buildings and is also encouraged in modern times as a way to green a building and moderate its temperature.

Installation

Your roof is an essential shield against the elements, so it’s important to install and maintain it correctly. Professional contractors are familiar with building codes and can help you choose a material that’s both safe and energy efficient. They also know all the safety protocols to follow when working on rooftops and can use specialized tools like ladders and harnesses safely.

There are many types of roofing, including shingle roofs (asphalt or wood), metal roofs, and tile roofs. Each type has its own benefits, but they all provide protection from the weather. Metal roofs, for example, can last up to 70 years and are fire-resistant, hail-resistant, and wind-resistant. They also have a reflective surface that can reduce cooling costs by reflecting sunlight. However, they have a higher initial cost than other options and require more maintenance. To ensure you’re getting the best quality roof, hire a contractor with extensive experience in your area. They should also have a residential field office that can answer questions and address concerns. They can also help you find the right product for your home and provide any installation or maintenance services you need.

When you hire professional roofing contractors, they will start the installation process by inspecting your roof and preparing it for construction. They will cover any landscaping or structures that are close to the roof with tarps, making sure they’re protected from debris. In addition, they will make sure that any existing gutters and ventilation systems are working properly before beginning work.

The next step involves removing the existing roof covering, which may include shingles, underlayment, and damaged decking. This can create a mess, but qualified roofing professionals will follow safety protocols to ensure that no one gets hurt. They will also know how to dispose of the materials correctly.

Once the roof is stripped down to the bare bones, the roofing team will install a new underlayment. This layer acts as a protective barrier against leaks and moisture. It’s particularly important for areas that are prone to water damage, such as valleys, wood stove pipes, certain vents, and along hip roofs.

Afterwards, the roofers will add a layer of shingle strips and cement them into place. Then, they will add any necessary flashing to protect the eaves from moisture and the elements. For example, they will waterproof the valleys, which are the areas where the slopes of your roof meet and form a V shape. They will use different methods for this, depending on the specific roof design and structure. They will also install ridge vents to help with attic ventilation and energy efficiency. Finally, they will clean up the work area and remove all debris, nails, and leftover materials.

Maintenance

Roofing is an essential component of any building, providing protection from the elements and helping to preserve its structural integrity. As such, it is important to maintain your roof through regular inspections, cleanings, and repairs. This will help to prevent any damage from escalating and prolong the life of your roof.