Before roofing contractors can begin installing a new roof, they must assess all aspects of design, which type of covering will be used and how the local climate could potentially affect the materials. While roofing designs vary, many of the principles of properly installing a roof remain the same. The roof is supported by the outside walls and the interior joists and load bearing walls. Sugar Land roofing specialists understand that the primary goal of the roof is to waterproof the house and protect it from the elements. A great roof should detract water away from the structure of the house. This is particularly important in climates that experience frequent amounts of heavy rainfall.
Before the contractor installs the roof, he or she much ensure that all local building codes are adhered to. Some cities may have specific requirements for many details, such as ventilation and the types of fasteners used. Homes that are part of a historic neighborhood might have stricter codes.
Most residential roofs feature standard components, and materials are usually installed from the bottom towards the roof ridge. This allows each layer to overlap the next layer, making the finished installation as waterproof as possible. Once the rafters are installed, sheathing is fastened on top in order to provide a nailing surface for the fasteners.
Roofing experts from Houston Restoration Services of Sugar Land TX can answer any question about storm damage or commercial roofing.
This material is typically made from particleboard, OSB and plywood. If the type of shingles that will be installed is wooden shakes or shingles, the sheathing might need to be spaced in order to allow air circulation that will prevent the shingles from rotting. Roofing contractors will refrain from stepping directly on the sheathing when installing it in order to prevent it from bowing.
After the sheathing is installed, roofing contractors will install the roofing underlayment, which helps to keep the sheathing waterproof and protect it from developing leaks. Battens are attached to the underlayment, which help to hold it down and serve as the attachment point for the shingles. Battens are evenly spaced, but the way they are spaced will depend on the type of shingles being installed, the local climate and the roof pitch. Roofing contractors will not install battens if they are installing asphalt shingles.
The last layer that will be installed is the roof covering, which usually consists of shingles or tiles that add an additional waterproof layer. Roofing contractors will overlap these materials in different ways. Additional elements like fascia board, soffit and gutters are usually the last items that are installed.
