Roofing Types & Problems

When we start talking about roofing problems, the first thing we need to know about is types of roofs prevailing in the market and the pros and cons of each roof type. Whilst Roofing is constantly exposed to the elements, structural shifting, and stresses as well as chemicals in the atmosphere all take their toll on your roof. Aging occur on all roofs, wear and tear stemming from neglect, abuse, contamination, and accident can result in expensive repairs or premature failure of the roofing system, if not detected. A Regular inspection program will help detect minor problems before they become big ones, avoiding interruptions of work going on inside the building, and most importantly, protecting the owner’s investment and adding many years to the life of a roof.
Roof Types:
Wood: There are two types. Shingles are cut to a specific size and smooth finished. Shakes are irregular and rough-textured. Wood gives a natural look to a home. It also requires more maintenance to protect it from the elements.
Metal: Metal roofs have returned from the olden days to become a popular roofing option. Once limited to low-slope structures, standing seam steel roofs can now be used on steeper roofs as well. Metal is durable, practically maintenance-free, heat reflective and non-flammable. Installed in sheets, a metal roof will actually dissipate a lightning strike rather than conduct it.
Built-up Roofing: Built-up roofs are installed on flat or very low-sloping structures. They consist of alternating layers of felt or fiberglass treated with asphalt. These layers are topped with asphalt (tar) or aggregate. Built-up roofs are more common in commercial buildings.
Tile and Slate: These are two of the oldest roofing materials around. They are long-lasting and durable. Their weight requires a reinforced roof structure that can support them. Both can be quite expensive and neither is easy to install.
Slate Roofing: is a very expensive choice, but it’s very beautiful and distinct. Many Colonial and French homes look very appealing with this style of roof materials. Slate roof materials are heavy, as you can imagine, and will need additional structural support.
Factors that affect roofs
• Sun delivers a combination of ultraviolet rays and heat can prematurely age a roof.
• Snow or ice that melts and refreezes (called ice damming) pushes up the roofing material and causes leaks. Ice damming can be a temporary problem that ends when the thaw is complete. Excessive amounts can damage the roof and roof structure.
• Rain is normally kept at bay by a roof. But when rain or moisture gets underneath roofing, damage can occur.
• Wind can remove any roof in the most extreme occurrence. However even minimal amounts can weaken a poorly installed roof by letting dirt and moisture get underneath.
• Moisture from condensation underneath a roof not only harms the roof and sheathing, but also can cause problems inside of the house.
• Trees provide shade to help cool a house. They also provide leaves and limbs that can fall or scrub against the roof.
• Algae and moss get a foothold on moist surfaces. Excessive growth can retain moisture and cause eventual weakening of the roofing material.
Other Causes of Roof Problems:
• Improper Installation
• Improper Design
• Lack of Maintenance
• Flashing Failures
Each of these major causes of roof damage can be minimized by regular and careful inspection for early and minor problems. Immediate attention to any flaws or damages with competent repairs can help you avoid major damage to your roof and prevent the need for early and costly roof replacement.
Having a roof that leaks is a very common problem of many homeowners, especially if you live in an area that sees a lot of rain. When your roof leaks there are a lot of problems that can happen such as mold and mildew stains, damaged foundations, and water stains on the ceiling, just to name a few. Because of this it is important for you to have the knowledge of how to find the leaks in your roof.
When you do discover a leak in the roof you should not panic but simply know that it is time to fix the leaky roof. A leak can actually be a good sign as it will force you to check the leak and it is a good idea at this time to look over the entire roof to see if there are any other leaks or problems. Fixing a leak in your roof is not very expensive and it does not take a lot of time.
The Common Roof leaks problem can best be solved by using EPDM. It is compatible with all types of roof problems caused by sunlight, snow, moisture, rain wind and other causes etc. EPDM is the broader term among roofing material used for repairing, it includes liquid rubber. EPDM is compatible with almost all types of roof including flat roof, sloped roofs and other times of roofs mentioned in this article.

For deal with other types of roofing problems visit EPDM Coatings LLC.

Resources:

EPDM

Liquid Rubber