Our Blog on Roofing

Roof structure

A roof structure is the construction that covers the top of a building and provides protection from the elements. It can be flat, pitched, domed, or vaulted. The style and form of the roof is determined by aesthetic, technical, and economic factors. For example, a flat roof may be more energy efficient than a domed roof.

The roof structure consists of a number of components, including the rafters and struts. These components are essential in supporting the roof and transferring the load to the walls. However, they are not meant to replace the ceiling joists. Another important component of a roof structure is the top plate. This plate connects the rafters to the wall studs and supports the weight of the roof. It also transfers the load to the foundations.

Roofing materials

Roofing materials are used to cover the top of a building, whether it is a house, an apartment building, or a commercial building. These materials are specially selected to protect the building from the elements. However, extreme temperatures and direct sunlight can damage the roof. The best roofing materials are usually made of a combination of different materials.

The main function of roofing materials is to prevent moisture from penetrating the building. These materials are generally made of synthetic materials. There are three primary types of roofing materials. These are based on the type of material and the climate in the area.

Installation

Installing a new roof on your home can be a complicated task. Choosing the right roofing contractor for the job is essential in ensuring that the project is completed properly. While many people can perform the installation themselves, you may want to consider hiring a professional. Before you get started, you should gather as much information as possible about the process.

The first step in the roofing installation process is preparing the roof. You should ensure that your contractor is able to properly prepare the roof for installation. This should include ensuring that the shingles are properly prepared for the weather. Using a mastic tape or adhesive is a great way to ensure a weatherproof joint. Also, you should remember that you should allow at least 250 mm of overlap between sheets. You should also make sure that any laps are supported by purlins underneath. You should also use weatherproof fixing hardware to prevent damage to the roofing sheets.

Maintenance

Proper maintenance and repair of a roofing system can extend the useful life of a roof system and save a building owner money in the long run. A proactive maintenance program can also minimize damage to building materials and interior furnishings caused by leaks or other roof problems. This can reduce the need for expensive deck repair services. There are several guidelines for the maintenance of roofing systems.

Modern roofing materials include liquid-applied polymeric membranes. These materials can be applied in all weather conditions. This type of material is more environmentally friendly than most conventional materials. It also eliminates the need for specialist equipment and hazardous hot work techniques.

Cost

The cost of doing business can vary a lot between roofing contractors. Some of the expenses include advertising, office expenses, and equipment and vehicles. Others are more significant, such as Worker's Compensation insurance, which can cost anywhere from 25% to 40% of payroll. Roofing contractors will include these costs in their estimate.

The cost of roofing varies depending on the square footage of the roof and the materials used. For example, the cost of replacing 3,000 square feet of roof shingles is roughly three times higher than a roof covering 2,000 square feet. Other factors affecting cost are the size of the roof, its complexity and the roofing contractor's experience.

Roofing contractors must make a net profit of about 25% of the job they complete. However, this number can vary depending on the number of jobs performed and the area in which they operate. Different regions will have different labor rates and materials, so the price of roofing will vary as well.

1. Metal Roofing

Metal roofs aren't just commonly found on commercial buildings. Due to their fire and weather resistance qualities, they are now becoming popular for homes. A metal roof can last up to 50 years and you can even add an additional roof on top of the metal. This lightweight material is typically between £150 and £600 per square feet, but the higher cost guarantees durability. One of the biggest benefits of metal roofs is their low maintenance so you can enjoy these roofs for many years to come without making much effort on repairs and maintenance.

Pros of metal roofs:

• When Properly installed, a metal roof can last as long as the house

• Easy to install

• Extremely lightweight

• Metal reflects the sun's heat, which helps you save energy

Cons of metal roofs:

• It's noisy so if you're sensitive to loud sounds, you'll be disturbed by the thumping noise of heavy rain

2. Steel Roofing

Another popular and affordable metal roofing material is steel. There are three main types of steel roofs: galvanised, stone-coated, and galvalume steel. Galvanised steel is made from zinc, which makes the roof more corrosion resistant. Galvalume is coated with aluminium, which is also corrosion resistant. This type of steel roofing can be painted and comes in a variety of colours. The stone-coated steel is made from a combination of zinc and ceramic-coated stone granules. However, it's not as corrosion resistant as the previous two.

Pros of steel roofs:

• Comes in a variety of shapes, colours, and finishes

• Can last up to 70 years

• Very lightweight

• Can be used as a base for a second layer

Cons of steel roofs:

• Steel dents easily

• It's noisy

3. Solar Tiles

Solar tiles are new to the world of roofing and are generally suitable for new-build properties or renovation homes. These tiles are just like mini solar panels that are installed on the traditional roof tiles. The biggest advantage of solar tiles is their aesthetics, but you do need to replace them every 30 years or so.

Pros of solar tiles:

• Easier and faster to install than solar panels. It only takes 10 hours for the tiles to be installed, compared to 2-5 days for solar panels

Cons of solar tiles:

• In order for the tiles to be effective, your roof's slope must be the appropriate angle to the sun

• Solar tiles are more expensive than solar panels

• You'll get less energy from solar tiles, thus making them less efficient than solar panels

4. Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles are the most common types of roofing materials used for homes. These economical shingles extend far beyond their low price. They provide a high level of durability and can last as long as 50 years. Since asphalt shingles are lightweight, they won't put any extra weight on your roof or undermine the supporting structures. These shingles repel moisture and help keep condensation out of the attic.

Pros of asphalt shingles:

• Waterproof

• Affordable

• Easy to replace the faulty shingles

• Available in different colours

Cons of asphalt shingles:

• Prone to weather damage, especially in freezing temperatures or high winds

5. Rubber Slates

When it comes to appearance and elegance, there is hardly any roofing material that can compete with rubber slates. This type of roofing is commonly made from recycled materials, such as rubber tyres and EPDM. Did you know that in order to make enough rubber slates for an average-size roof, it can take anywhere from 200 to 1,000 recycled tyres! These slates are extremely lightweight and can be cut into various shapes using a knife. What's more, rubber slates can be installed in any weather condition.

Pros of rubber slates:

• Classic appearance

• Cheap to buy and install

• The slates won't break after walking on them

• Recyclable

• Impact resistant

• UV resistant

• High-quality slates can last between 50-150 years

• Different cutting shapes available from square-cut and rounded cut to the chiseled-tip cut

Cons of rubber slates:

• Not fire resistant

• Have a distinctive smell, which is noticeable during installation

6. Slate Tiles

Another common type of roofing material used throughout the UK is slate tiles. There are plenty of reasons why homeowners opt for slate tiles. These natural stone products are unique, aesthetically appealing, and extremely durable. In fact, slate tiles can withstand harsh weather conditions better than many of their counterparts and are typically known to last up to 150 years! These popular tiles come in various sizes and colours so you can easily match them to your home.

Pros of slate roofs:

• Unique and attractive

• Very durable

• Rot resistant

Cons of slate roofs:

• Expensive and difficult to install

• Prone to breaking

7. Green Roofs

Green roofs are the latest addition to the world of roofing in the UK, but they have been popular for some time now in Scandinavian countries. These roofs are also called vegetated roofs and are made from real plants. They are ideal for eco-conscious homeowners who want to create a green roofing option. While moss and other living plant materials are usually associated with water absorption, when they are properly cared for, they can make an effective roofing material with many benefits. The future of green roofs looks promising as more and more people are opting for this roofing material. Green roofs improve air quality by putting oxygen back in the air, provide thermal insulation, and absorb rainwater. You can even grow your favourite plants on your roof! Just remember to install a layer of waterproof membrane before creating your green roof.

Pros of green roofs:

• They improve the drainage system and the air quality

• Visually appealing

• Green roofs have better thermal insulation than any other roofing material

• The most eco friendly roofing option

Cons of green roofs:

• Expensive to install

• High maintenance

• Susceptible to leakage or damage

8. Clay and Concrete Tiles

Roofing tiles are available in concrete or clay depending on your personal preference. These tiles come in different shapes and colours. Concrete tiles are made from cement, water, and sand, created under high heat before they are moulded into shape. Clay tiles are also made from natural materials in a similar way as they're baked at high temperatures. You can choose from a range of colours including yellow, white, brown, or orange. However, the most recognisable clay tiles are the terracotta ones that most of us are familiar with. Since clay tiles are baked in high temperatures, they are not prone to fading. The same goes for concrete tiles, which are sourced from natural materials, thus making them an eco-friendly roofing option.

Pros of clay and concrete tiles:

• Clay tiles require less maintenance as they don't absorb much water

• Concrete tiles are more affordable to install

• Both of these tiles come in a variety of colours

• Aesthetically appealing

• Clay tiles are wind resistant and they won't fade

• Long lasting

Cons of clay and concrete tiles:

• Both are brittle and susceptible to cracking

• Difficult to install

• Both tiles are heavy

Good to Know

Before installing a new roof or replacing your existing one, you should know that the number 1 enemy of your new roof is water. Sure you can also blame the wind, snow, and the sun, but a combination of these will result in water moisture. This is why it is imperative to waterproof your new roof, especially if you don't choose asphalt shingles. A good waterproof material for the roof is the R400 liquid system that repels water and prevents it from penetrating into the roof. This product will improve the quality and longevity of your new roof. The R400 rubber waterproofing system is an ideal option for most types of residential and commercial roofs. It can also be used as a coating on cement, tile, and metal roofs. To install this waterproofing system, several coats of the liquid rubber are applied using a roller or brush. For additional protection, your roofer may also use the R400 membrane to seal the roof further. This will ensure your roof remains fully waterproof for many years to come.

Conclusion

As you can see, there are clear advantages- and some disadvantages- in all the roofing materials we've mentioned in this article. The type of roofing material you choose depends on your specific project. Just take your time and carefully weigh up the pros and cons of each material in order to find the most cost-effective solution.

When it comes to the areas of your home that require regular maintenance, your roof should be one of the most important ones to focus on. It serves a protective shield for the rest of your home and is hard at work every single day sheltering your household from the outdoors and keeping your property well insulated. Without proper maintenance, your roof is vulnerable to damage and deterioration due to daily exposure to the elements. 

Unfortunately, the roof is also an area which is often neglected by many British homeowners. This results in the need for frequent roof repairs and also repairs for other parts of your home that may have been damaged by a leaking roof. This can be a costly and inconvenient process, so you should do everything possible to avoid the need for it. 

Put in a bit of time and effort to learn how to maintain your roof and you won’t need to be in constant touch with your local roofing companies. Not sure where to start and what you need to do to avoid the need for constant roof fixes? Read on for some essential roof maintenance tips to keep your roof in top condition no matter what the weather:

Inspect your roof on a regular basis 

One of the most common mistakes made by homeowners is a simple lack of checking their roof on a regular basis. At Leivers Roofing, we’d suggest conducting a thorough inspection of your roof a minimum of three times a year. You should also schedule this inspection in around the right seasons. 

The harsh British winter can have an impact on your roof, so make sure that you inspect for any signs of damage in the early spring season. Our summers are also getting a lot more intense, so check for any signs of damage from harmful UV rays in early autumn. Remember, weather conditions can be one of the primary reasons your roof deteriorates. 

Even if there hasn’t been a storm or anything too radical, your roof could still suffer due to daily exposure to the elements. 

Here’s what to look for during your roof inspection: 

●    Any clogged gutters

●    Missing roof shingles

●    Damaged drain components

●    Signs of deterioration 

It is worth finding good local roofing companies to conduct this inspection for you, at least the first few times you do it. They will know exactly what to look for and what could lead to a leaking roof. They’ll also be able to conduct the inspection safely as they’ll be used to navigating and making their way around many different types of roofs. Remember, while there will be an initial investment involved in hiring them to check your roof, you could potentially save a lot of money as roof leak repair can be a lot more expensive. 

We would also recommend getting a professional roof assessment done for any house that you’re considering moving into before you move. Roofing professionals will recognise any potential issues and supply a quote for any roof repair needed.

Get in touch with local roofing companies if you spot any need for roof repair 

One of the worst things you can do is neglect any signs of damage. If you think there may be a need for repair, get in touch with a local roofing specialist immediately. Acting quickly will save you money as you’ll deal with the issue before it escalates into something a lot more costly and damaging to the rest of your home.

Get any overhanging trees trimmed 

While having your property surrounded by trees creates a lovely ambience and provides lots of shade, it can also have a damaging effect on your roof. Overhanging trees in the roof area can result in lots of fallen branches and leaves on your roof. Not only can the branches scrape and damage your roof materials, but the debris can also end up clogging up your roof gutters. 

Windy weather conditions will make this much more likely to happen, so always check your roof after a stormy situation. Avoid the issue completely by getting any overhanging trees trimmed regularly by a professional arborist.

Roof gutters should be cleaned up on a regular basis to prevent a leaking roof 

A clogged up gutter is often the reason for leaky roofs, thanks to the rainy British weather. Make sure that any leaves or other debris is cleaned out from your roof gutters on a regular basis, otherwise rainwater won’t be able out fast enough. This water can seep through into your attic and eventually make its way to the rest of your property. 

Roofing companies often offer roof gutter cleaning services, and we’d suggest getting these done at least twice a year. Keep an eye on your rain gutters after any particularly rainy bouts of weather.

Any damaged roofing materials should be replaced immediately 

To avoid the need for roof leak repair, you should take quick action when it comes to any type of roof damage. For example, if you spot any damaged roof shingles or a bit of worn out roof cladding, get these professionally replaced immediately. 

Leaving them on your roof for too long could lead to the need for more expensive and time consuming roof repairs. Replacing any damaged materials means you’re also less likely to ever need total roof replacement. You’re also less likely to experience a leaking roof, no matter how rainy it gets in your parts.

Find a good roofing company to service your roof on an annual basis 

The best preventative step you can take to avoid any roof related issues is to hire a specialist for annual roof servicing. This will involve a team of roofing contractors conducting an inspection of your roof and dealing with any issues, big or small. There may not be any issues but you’ll have the peace of mind that your roof has held up against whatever the weather has thrown its way. This early detection could also end up saving you a lot of money and the need for roof fixes in the future. 

Having the contact of a good team of roofing specialists will also serve you well if you do every require any roof repairs in the future. Don’t attempt any major repair yourself. This could be dangerous without the right skills and experience, and you may inadvertently end up making the problem a lot worse.  

The often rainy and windy British weather makes it important for you to keep a close eye on your roof to monitor what impact it could be having. Due to the ever changing weather conditions, roof maintenance is essential for all households – no matter how high-quality the materials used may be. 

Remember, a leaking roof and expensive repairs are a result of neglecting your roof. Deal with each issue as it happens and you won’t need to worry about this. Your roof is strong and sturdy and built to withstand a host of weather conditions!