Best roofs for rainy climates
Does your locality often experience heavy rains? Selecting an ideal roofing material can keep your home protected from water damage and withstand extreme rain storms. The following are some of the best roofs for rainy climates.
Wood shingles and shakes
Wood shingles and shakes are ideal roofing materials that can withstand harsh rainy conditions. Wood shingles are a more sustainable eco-friendly roofing option if you prefer green roofs. Wood shakes and shingles can be specially treated to resist moisture and rot. However, without treatment, wood shingles and shakes could rot.
This type of roofing also provides a unique natural look that enhances your home’s curb appeal. Wooden shingles and shakes have excellent insulation properties that can help you cut down on utility costs.
Metal roofing systems
Metal roofs can resist extreme rain storms, wind, hail, and winds. This makes metal roofing an excellent option for protecting your home. When sealed properly, metal roofs are waterproof and can keep your home moisture and mold-free.
Metal roofs are effective against mold, algae, and rot and can last for about 50 years. This type of roofing system requires little or no maintenance which makes them a suitable roofing option for rains and hailstorms.
Clay tiles
Clay tiles can protect your home against heavy rains while still maintaining their aesthetic value. Clay tile roofs can last for about 50 years and require little maintenance.
This type of roofing is available in a wide array of colors and designs and can improve the curb appeal of your home. Clay tiles are also recyclable which makes them a more sustainable roofing solution.
However, clay tiles are susceptible to cracking when exposed to extremely cold temperatures. They also require some degree of maintenance to prevent mold formation. Since clay tiles are heavy, your foundation should have the capacity to support your roof.
Best roofs for cold climates
If you live in cold climatic regions, you should consider selecting a roofing material that can withstand harsh weather conditions. Try to choose a roof that can provide an extra layer of protection during snow storms, extreme winds, hailstorms, and more. Below are some of the best roofs for cold climates.
Metal roofs
Metal roofing is highly durable and can withstand harsh elements from severe snow storms to wind storms. Snow can also slide off metal roofs minimizing the risk of snow accumulation and ice dam formation.
Metal roofing also prevents leaks when sealed properly thus providing maximum property protection from weather elements. However, metal roofs are not good insulators and cannot keep your home warm during extremely cold weather. You should consider installing additional insulation material to prevent heat loss and reduce energy bills.
Slate roofs
Slate roofing is made from natural stone which is effective against cold climatic conditions. A slate roof can also withstand extreme winds, hails, and fire. Slate tiles are highly durable and can last for about 100 years. Slate roofs are very dense and can withstand heavy weights of snow.
With a slate roof, you don’t have to worry about insulation because the roofing material has great insulation properties. Slate roofing protects your home from cold weather while keeping you warm. This way, you can save on energy costs since your heating system doesn’t have to overwork.
However, slate roofing is heavy and difficult to install. You might also incur extra costs with slate roofing as it requires extra structural support to hold the weight.
Fiberglass asphalt shingles
Fiberglass asphalt shingles can effectively withstand cold climates. Asphalt shingles are also relatively durable and can efficiently insulate your home and prevent heat loss. Asphalt shingles are also easy to install and can improve the aesthetic value of your home.
However, fiberglass asphalt shingles can become brittle and crack during harsh winter conditions. Fiberglass asphalt roofs also have a shorter lifespan compared to other roofing materials like metal, or slate roofing. Asphalt roofing requires regular maintenance to maintain the functionality and structural stability of your home.
Can I replace my roof in winter?
You might have discovered a roof leak or roof damage and you are wondering how it will survive the winter. “Can I replace my roof in winter?” is what you might be pondering over. While the conditions might not be ideal for roof replacement, you can replace your faulty roof in winter.
However, you should consider hiring an expert to handle your winter roof installation. The following are some of the factors you should consider during your roof installation.
Safety precautionary measures
During the winter, roofs can be slippery and dangerous to climb. You could slip, fall off the roof and injure yourself. You should consider letting an experienced professional handle your roof installation during winter.
A professional has all the necessary safety gear and equipment needed to safely complete your roofing installation. They can use harnesses, lanyards, anchor points, and more.
Proper handling of brittle roofing shingles
Roofing shingles become brittle during cold weather. Improper handling of shingles might result in cracks. An expert roofer can effectively handle your roofing shingles. They have the skills and expertise required to handle fragile shingles.
They can store them in a warm place to prevent them from becoming brittle and cracking during installation.
You can alternatively consider installing metal roofing as the material is resistant to cold temperatures. Metal roofing is also highly durable and long-lasting.
Preparation of tools and equipment
Some tools and equipment like nail guns and compressors might not work effectively during the winter. During winter, water freezes and reduces airflow resulting in the malfunctioning of tools and equipment. However, a professional roofing contractor can take extra precautions and ensure that your roofing material is securely installed.
The sealant material required to seal roofing shingles might not be effective during winter. The sealant requires warm temperatures to work properly. When the temperature drops below 40 degrees, the sealant material might not melt and your shingles could be blown off. In this case, your expert can hand seal your shingles with asphalt cement.
Learn How To Protect Your Roof
You may not give much thought to your roof – that is until something goes wrong. But with proper maintenance and routine inspections you can greatly extend the life of your roof and in the long term save time, money and prevent costly roofing emergencies.
Learning how to protect your roof is one of the most important things you can do as a homeowner. Whether you have a flat roof, a pitched roof, or a gable roof, if you want to extend the life of your roof, it needs to be properly maintained and we are going to show you how to take care of your roof. These simple tips will save you headaches – and money– down the road.
Read this guide to learn everything you need to know about protecting your roof. Here are 5 tips from roofing contractors!
5 TIPS TO PROTECT YOUR ROOF
- Keep Gutters Clean
There is no doubt that gutter systems play a vital role in removing rainwater from the roof and diverting it safely away from the house's foundation. They also help prevent flooding and erosion. Without properly functioning gutters, water can easily leak through windows or seep into basements or crawl spaces. It’s important to pay close attention to your gutters throughout the year.
Check and clean your gutters regularly. Gutters can quickly become clogged with leaves, debris, and twigs, which prevent them from doing thier job – keeping water away from your home. Clogged gutters can easily cause an overflow. An overflow can cause water to back up and lead to roof damage. By keeping your gutters free of debris you are also protecting your roof. If you do not feel comfortable cleaning your gutters, call a local roofing contractor who will help.
- Get in the Habit of Visually Inspecting Your Roof Regularly
It is a good idea to periodically inspect your roof, especially after high winds and intense rains. You should ensure your flashing is solid and there are no missing or damaged roof pieces.
During your visual inspection, make sure to look out for signs of rodent and pest damage, such as shredding and rotting. Most people do not think to look for signs of damage caused by rodents. It is time to replace your roof if you see any signs of wear, such as rusting, cracking, or leaking.
Many roofing companies offer free 15-minute roof inspections. It’s a good idea to mark your calendar in the spring and fall with a reminder to schedule your roof inspection. This simple preventive measure makes all the difference in protecting your roof.
- Remove Leaves & Moss
If you have trees nearby, you’re going to have leaves accumulate on your roof and in your gutters. There’s no way around it. It is very important to remove leaves from your roof. Leaves that are left on the roof and in gutters trap moisture, decompose, or in the worst-case scenario, they grow weeds. This is detrimental to the life-span of your roof.
In addition, if there are leaves on your roof, they may get into your attic space and cause damage to your insulation. So, If you notice that you have a lot of leaves or moss on your roof, be sure to remove them as soon as possible or call a roofing contractor who can come by and clean your roof.
- Keep Branches Trimmed
Overgrown branches can damage your shingles (particularly during windy weather). Branches that fall from winds and storms can easily break the tiles. In addition, if a tree is close to your home, branches may break off and land on your roof.
If you have trees or shrubs on your property, you must trim them regularly. Dense branches also make a great pathway for squirrels and rodents to access your roof. They can find their way into your attic and gnaw on your roofing materials causing damage which eventually leads to roof leaks.
Always leave a 10-foot clearance between branches and your roof to avoid any damage from overgrown landscaping.
- Choose Strong and Adaptable Roofing Materials.
Asphalt shingles are one of the top choices for roofing materials, but they are not your only choice. A variety of roofing materials such as tile, slate, ceramic, metal, rubber, or concrete, are available. Each one comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. The best thing to do is research the different types of roofing materials and determine the best option for your home's architectural style, geographic location, and weather conditions in your area. One particular type of roof may be better than another for your home. For example, metal roofing or ceramic roofing is perfect in areas with strong wind and hail since they are non-combustible and fire-resistant. In addition, they can be repaired easily. Concrete and slate roofs are ideal for areas with drastic temperature changes. Talking to your local roofing contractor is a great way to determine what roof type will be the best investment in the long term. Remember, try to look beyond the initial cost of the roof and the installation. It’s important to consider the return on your investment in the long term.
Conclusion - A Few Final Words
After reading this article, we hope that you understand the importance of routine inspections and proper care of your roof. When you protect your roof, you save time and money. In addition, you can prevent costly roof emergencies from popping up. The sooner you notice a problem with your roof the sooner you can address the issue and possibly extend the life-span of your roof. There's no substitute for having a well-maintained roof.
If you would like to schedule a free roof inspection or if you have more questions about protecting your roof call our office and speak to one of our roofing contractors. We are always here to help!
Meta Description: Knowing how to protect your roof will save you time and money in the long run, and it will prevent costly roofing emergencies. Here’s 5 ways to protect your roof.
5 BENEFITS OF A SLATE ROOF
What are the benefits of a slate roof?
Whether you are building a custom home or in the process of replacing your current roof, choosing a material for your roof is a big decision. While many homeowners opt for shingles, slate roofs not only take the aesthetics of your home to the next level but they have many advantages over other types of roofing.
5 benefits of a slate roof
An increasingly popular option for roofs, slate will set your home apart and increase your home’s resale value. Let’s take a look at 5 benefits of slate roofs.
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Long-Lasting
Slate is one of the longest-lasting roofing materials on the market. While many roofing materials are manufactured from artificial materials, slate is a solid natural rock composed of volcanic ash or clay that undergoes a metamorphosis. Slate roofs can easily withstand the forces of nature lasting anywhere from 75 to 100 years.
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Low-Maintenance
Routine inspections and regular maintenance extend the life of your roof significantly. Yet, unlike most other roof types, slate roofs require little maintenance. Because slate roofs are made from natural rocks, warping, rusting, and mold are not a problem. The only issue you may have with your slate roof is a loose or broken tile. Routine inspections by a certified-roofing professional can detect you do have a lost or broken tile and thereby prevent leaks or other damage from occurring. Aside from removing debris (always wear soft-soled shoes when on your slate roof), cleaning your roof, and checking gutters, slate roofs are very low maintenance.
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Eco-Friendly
With homes becoming more sustainable and eco-friendly, homeowners are choosing environmentally friendly roofs. Slate is 100% natural – sourced from quarries – and so it has very little impact on the environment. Not only do slate roofs reduce your carbon footprint, but they can be recycled or reused when they are no longer needed. Your eco-friendly slate roof is highly energy efficient as well. Due to their dense composition, slate roofs do not let heat and cold infiltrate the home. Warmer homes in the winter and cooler homes in the summer help reduce energy costs in your home.
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Increase Your Home’s Property Value & Visual Aesthetics
Slate roofs are absolutely stunning and add to your property’s curb appeal They come in various sizes, colors, textures, and patterns to enhance the style of your home. Slate roofs also increase your home's resale value – adding distinct character and charm. And, because slate roofs are so energy efficient, low energy costs attract potential home buyers looking to save money on their electricity bills.
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Safety
Slate tile is fire resistant, which keeps your home safe from sparks or ash from wildfires or nearby house fires that may land on your roof. When properly installed, slate roofs receive a Class A fire rating – the highest a material can have because it is the least flammable. Slate also repels water more than other roofing materials so you don’t have to worry about frozen or cracked tiles from winter.
A slate roof is a great investment for your home. Not only does a slate roof increase your home's value, but it will last a lifetime. If you have a question or would like a free estimate, call our experts at Universal Roofing. They are always standing by, ready to help!
A Guide To Roof Parts And Roofing Shingles
Parts of a roof frame
Below is a coverage of the parts of a roof frame.
Ridge board
A ridge board is a horizontal board that connects the rafters on opposite sides of your roof frame to form a peak. The ridge board is the highest point of your roof frame.
Rafters
Rafters are a series of sloped wooden or metal beams that run from the roof’s ridge to the edge of the roof. Rafters are parts of a roof frame that support the roof deck, shingles, and other external roofing materials.
Ceiling joists
Ceiling joists are a series of structural beams that run horizontally between the rafters on opposite sides of the roof frame. The ceiling joists are parts of a roof frame that provide the framework required to attach and support the ceiling.
Collar ties
Collar ties are horizontal beams used to connect opposing rafters to prevent ridge separation from extreme winds. They are installed in the upper one-third section of the roof frame near the ridge.
Tail
The tail is the part of the rafter that stretches out beyond the wall of your building. These are the parts of a roofing frame that form the eaves.
Fascia
The fascia is a horizontal beam that is attached to the edge of your rafters to conceal the eaves and protect your home from harsh weather elements.
5 Best Roof Maintenance Tips For Homeowners - A Complete Guide
When it comes to roof maintenance, it is important to keep your roof in the best possible shape, so that it lasts and protects your home for years to come. If you don't keep your roof in good condition, it can lead to costly repairs down the road. Roof maintenance is essential no matter what type of roof is on your home.
Likewise, with the right knowledge, you can save a lot of money on repairs and replacements. So it's important to keep your roof in good condition by performing timely inspections and maintenance. This avoids costly roof repairs and possibly even a roof replacement.
If you want to maintain your roof, it is important to know what to look for and how to inspect it on a regular basis. That's where this guide comes in, here in this article we'll provide you with a complete overview of the best roof maintenance tips to keep your roof in excellent condition, saving you time and money in the long run.
Tips For Maintenance Roof
1. Routine Inspections
To ensure that your roof is in good condition, it is necessary to perform routine inspections on a regular basis. The best time to perform routine inspections is when the weather is not too hot or cold as this gives you the most accurate assessment of your roof’s condition. In addition, this can help you identify potential issues before they turn into bigger problems.
2. Get a Professional Roof Inspection
One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make is not getting a professional roof inspection. If you want a safe roof, you need to get a professional roof inspection. A professional roof inspection will show you if there are any leaks, signs of water damage, and if there are any cracks in your roof. Surely, they will be able to spot potential problems you may have missed. Most companies offer free roof inspections and they can provide you with invaluable tips for maintaining your roof.
3. Clean the Leaves and Other Debris From Gutters & Roof
In addition to keeping your roof in great condition, it’s important to keep your gutters and your roof free of any debris.This includes leaves and other loose materials that can fall on your roof and cause damage. If you have a gutter system on your roof, you will need to keep it clean. A clogged gutter can lead to water damage and leaks. So it's also very important to clean your gutters regularly for a free-flowing drainage system.
4. Ensure Strong Insulation
Insulation is the most important factor for any homeowner. A properly insulated roof will protect your home from the harmful effects of cold temperatures and excessive rain, which in turn can cause damage to the roof itself. Insulation helps your roof to maintain its integrity and prevent it from leaking.
5. Preventive Measures for Moss, algae, and Lichens
Moss, lichen, and algae are all types of plants that can grow on your roof. In other words, these plants usually start to grow when the weather becomes warm and humid and can be found in shady areas of your roof. You can remove moss, lichen, and algae from your roof by hiring a professional roof cleaning service. Apply preventative products containing zinc and copper once your roof is clean and dry to prevent moss, lichen, and algae from growing again.
Benefits of Maintaining Your Roof
If you follow a proper roof maintenance schedule, it will truly benefit in the long term. A properly maintained roof will:
Enhances the Safety of the Home
The biggest benefit to maintaining your roof is that it will improve your home’s appearance and enhance safety. Your roof will be able to withstand any harsh conditions like extreme weather, heavy rainfall, extreme heat, and also extreme cold.
Saves Money
Another advantage of maintaining your roof is that it saves you money. If you wait until there is roof damage that has been unattended, the costs are much greater than making small repairs when they arise. Also, you can avoid expensive roof replacement costs.
Extended Roof Life
Extended roof life is one of the main benefits of having a well-maintained roof. If you don't maintain your roof properly, you could end up spending a lot of money replacing it in the future.
All in all, roof maintenance is essential to ensure your roof lasts for many years to come. So if you want to keep your roof in the best possible condition, be sure to schedule routine inspections and maintenance to avoid costly repairs and replacements.
So hopefully, after reading this article, you now know what to look for and how to perform the required maintenance tasks for your roof. Furthermore, if you've any questions on roof repairs, replacements or would like to schedule a free roof inspection, just give us a call.
Pros & Cons of Silicone Roofing
What are the Pros & Cons of Silicone Roofing
Whether you're building a new roof, renovating an old one, or replacing a roof on your commercial property, a silicone roof coating could be an option. Silicone roofing may save you money and can be very beneficial.
Silicone roofing is ideal for preserving your existing roof and preventing any damage that might occur over time. They are lightweight, durable, and easy to apply. Plus, they look great and provide UV protection, making silicone roofing an excellent choice for any commercial and residential space.
If you are in the market for a new commercial silicone roofing system, you need to know the pros and cons. We've put together a list of the pros and cons so you can make the decision that's right for you.
Without further ado, let's get started!
What is Silicone Roofing?
Silicone roofing is a form of non-stick coating that is made from a combination of polysiloxane and silicon resin. It is cost-effective, water-resistant, and flexible. Due to its anti-UV ray coating, it is ideal for protecting your roof. It can be applied by using a spray gun or roller in order to fill in gaps, blisters, and stitchings. Moreover, the coating is available in various colors and is designed to enhance the look of natural slate or tile.
PROS of Silicone Roofing
Resistance to Ponding Water
A big problem with the use of traditional roofing is ponding, as the water can build up between the seams and can damage the shingles. This problem can be solved by applying silicone roofing which allows the water to be repelled by the roof and not pool. Moreover, It can be removed easily, so you don't have to worry about damage.
Flexibility & Weatherproofing
Flexibility and weatherproofing are two important benefits of silicone roof coating. Silicone roofing is very flexible, so it can be installed on curved roofs. It can be used in areas that are prone to heavy winds and strong rainstorms.
High Solids Content
Due to its high solid content, silicone roofing offers the highest level of performance, durability, and aesthetics. As a result, it can last for many years without any damage.
Cost-Effective
In fact, the silicone roof coating is cost-effective. In comparison to other roofing options, silicone roofing is much cheaper. In addition, It is a long-lasting option because it does not need to be replaced frequently.
Reduce Cooling Costs
It is common for flat commercial roofs to receive full sun exposure, which could lead to an increase in indoor temperatures. With silicone roofing, your roof will stay cool inside and be insulated from the sun.
Short Project Duration
In general, the installation of silicone roof coating generally takes very little time. Therefore, it is a great choice for commercial roofs.
It is Eco-Friendly
Silicone roofing is non-toxic, non-flammable, and has no harmful emissions. Thus, it is considered to be eco-friendly and environmentally safe.
Cons of Silicone Roofing
Gets Dirty
A silicone roof easily attracts dirt and dust. That's why it needs regular maintenance. Also, once the dirt begins to accumulate it can cause the roof to lose its reflective properties over time. In order to prevent dirt and dust accumulation, it is highly recommended to clean your silicone roof coating six months or one year after it has been installed.
An Improper Installation Could Damage Your Existing Roof
If the silicone roofing is installed improperly, it could peel off the roof tiles. Moreover, an improper installation could result in leaking or water seepage, and in the end, you will have to replace your roof with a new one.
Wet Conditions Make Silicon Roofing Very Slippery
As a result of their hydrophobic properties, it becomes extremely slippery when wet. Actually, this can cause serious accidents and injuries. And can be a major problem if you live in a place with heavy rainfall. In such a case, it is highly recommended to use a silicone roof coating that is specially designed for wet conditions.
Silicone roofing is a cost-effective, flexible, eco-friendly, and water-resistant solution for l roofs. Consider applying silicone roofing on your roof to help to protect it from damage, reduce cooling costs, and make your roof more energy efficient.
Hopefully, this article helped you understand more about silicone roofing. If you have any additional questions, feel free to contact us. We will be happy to assist you with your silicone roofing decision.
What is the cost of repairing a roof leak?
Cost of Repairing a Roof Leak
Have you noticed water puddles in your artic, stains on your ceiling, or a dumpy smell in your home? Your roof might be leaking. To keep your family safe and protect your home, have your leaking roof repaired. Read on and learn more about roof leak repair costs
The average cost of repairing a roof leak in Atlanta
The average cost of repairing a leaking roof is between $2 and $30 per square foot. However, the cost varies depending on the following factors:
The extent of the damage
It is impossible to know the exact damage caused by your leaking roof. If your roof has been leaking for a while, the damage might be extensive, and the roof leak repair cost might be high. If it’s impossible to repair your roof, you might need a replacement, and you are likely to spend an average of $80 per square foot.
If you are experiencing moderate leaking that requires patching or shingle replacement, you might spend $7.50 per square foot. For minor leaks, you will probably pay $1.50 per square foot.
The type of roofing material
The type of roofing materials also determines the cost of roof leak repair. If you have a slate roof, you can pay between $2.50 and $10 per square foot, depending on the extent of the damage. In case your slate roof needs flashing, it might cost more.
Contact with an expert for a roof leak
Repairing an asphalt shingle roof can cost $1.50 to $5.00 per square foot. The cost varies depending on the extent of the damage. For instance, replacing underlayment and relaying shingles is more expensive than replacing a few worn-out shingles.
For a clay tiled roof, you are likely to pay an average cost of $5 per square foot. If you need to repair a more extensive roof section, it costs $3 to $7 per square foot. To repair a leaky cedar roof, you’ll spend an average of $8 per square foot, but you might spend more if the damage is extensive.
Location of the leak
The leak's location on your roof might also influence the total cost of the repairs. If the leak is in an area that roofer can easily access, you can pay $1.50 to $2.50 per square foot. However, if the leak is located in a position that might require more inspection or specialized equipment, the leaking roof repair cost might be $5 per square foot and above.
Labor cost
The labor cost in your local area also affects your roof leak repair cost. The average hourly rate is $ 4.5 to $7.5per square foot, but the rate is higher in some areas. Search "roof leak repair near me" for a more accurate cost estimate.
Why is paper felt important?
WHY ROOFING FELT IS IMPORTANT
Roofing Felt. Think of it as your roofing deck’s bodyguard. Roofing felt is important because it acts as a barrier- a line of defense-between your roofing deck and the elements. If you’ve ever passed by a roofing project, you surely noticed the black paper sheet on the roof before the shingles are applied. This protective barrier is known as roof underlayment. Roofing felt is one type of roofing underlayment and it extends the life of your roof by protecting it from water, fire, and severe weather. Many building codes and professional organizations, such as the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) strongly recommend the use of roofing underlayment for every project. Not only is roofing felt important for the protection of your home, but it also adds to the aesthetics, ensuring a uniform look. Let’s look at some of the benefits of roofing felt.
BENEFITS OF ROOFING FELT
ACTS AS A WATER REPELLANT
Nature’s elements can wreak havoc on your roof. Roofing felt is important because it repels water preventing moisture from getting trapped between shingles and roofing deck wood. Moisture damage is detrimental to your roof because it causes leaks, water damage and mold. The layer of paper felt helps the water drain off your roof and prevents leaks into your home.
PROTECTS ROOF DECK DURING INSTALLATION
Many times, it takes a while for the roof to be complete. During the installation process, roofing felt protects the wood until the shingles can be applied.
KEEPS SHINGLES UNIFORM
Roof decks are not always straight. Roof felt is important when it comes to keeping the surface uniform prior to applying the shingles. This prevents bumps and imperfections which can not only compromise the roof, but creates a “picture framing” effect, or the pattern of your decking showing abnormalities through the shingles.
PROTECTS AGAINST SNOW AND ICE
Snow and ice are especially hard on a roof. When piles of snow accumulate on the roof and then quickly melt, water may leak through the crevices of your roof. The extra protection that paper felt provides helps to protect insulation, ceilings, and walls from the water that pools on your roof.
FIRE PROTECTION
Roofing felt has a Class A Fire Rating which means that it can withstand fires. Shingles alone may not meet the Class A Fire Requirements. ASTM International or Canadian Standards Association (CSA) on the product label means that the felt is compliant and often comply with building codes.
LOWERS HOMEOWNER’S INSURANCE RATES
Because of roofing felt’s Class, A Fire Rating insurance rates are typically lower for homes that have use roofing felt.
PREVENTS WOOD RESIN STAINS
Specific types of wood may leach resin over time. Roof felt’s protective barrier prevents this resin from staining your shingles.
WHAT IS PAPER FELT
As we stated, roofing underlayment lies between the roof deck and the shingles. There are two types of roofing underlayment, synthetic and paper felt. Paper felt is one of the oldest types of underlayment and has been used for decades. Over a hundred years ago when the manufacturing of paper felt began, cloth felt from recycled cotton was used to make asphalt felt. Today, paper felt is made from saturating paper or sawdust and recycled paper with asphalt. Paper felt costs less than synthetic underlayment and comes in two different types: No. 15 felt, and No. 30 felt. No. 15 felt weighs between seven and fourteen pounds per 100 square feet. No. 30 felt weighs 16.5 or 17 pounds. The ASTM D 4869 requires No. 15 felt to weigh at least 8 pounds per 100 square feet. ASTM D226 is a stricter standard, requiring a minimum of 11.5 pounds per square. If you have a steep pitch roof, use No. 30 felt, however if your roof is not steep, No. 15 will suffice. No. 15 paper felt is a more economical choice, however, it is not as thick as No. 30 paper felt. Overall No. 15 felt paper, is thicker, tears less during installation and offers better protection.
There are pros and cons to all roofing underlayment. When choosing the best underlayment for your roof, consider your geographic location, the weather in your area, your roof’s design, what roofing materials are being used, and your budget. Talk with your roofing contractor to determine the best option for your roof.