When deciding what kind of residential roof to purchase, homeowners should consider durability, appearance, and price. They should also find out if there are HOA rules regarding roofing materials. Before the project starts, homeowners should request a contract from their roofing contractor. They should also get a building permit, and a letter from the contractor’s insurance company confirming their project is covered.
Materials
There are a lot of different roofing materials to choose from, so homeowners need to think about what looks and functionality they want in their roofs before making a decision. Some roofing materials are better suited to certain climates, while others can add more visual appeal to the home or be more energy efficient. It’s also important to consider the weight of the roofing material since this can affect the framing and support required for a roof, especially in older homes. Contact Round Rock Roofer for more information.
Asphalt shingles are the most popular roofing material in the United States and come in various colors and styles that pair well with most house styles. They’re cost-effective, easy to install and work well in most climates. They can be purchased in 3-tab (the most affordable), dimensional or architectural (thicker than 3-tab shingles) or luxury varieties designed to look like slate tiles.
Wood shingle roofs are an attractive and classic option for traditional and historic-style houses. They’re available in cedar, redwood and pine. Basic shingles are sawmilled for consistency, while shakes are split into wedge-shaped pieces with a rougher texture. Wood shingles and shakes must be treated with fire retardants and preservatives to last longer and can be damaged by hail and heavy winds. They’re not a good choice in areas that get lots of moisture or where wildfires are a concern.
Metal roofing is a durable, long-lasting option. It’s available in galvanized, copper and zinc. It’s great for colder climates because it can withstand large amounts of snow. It can be more expensive than other roofing types, but the upfront investment may pay off in the long run with lower maintenance costs and improved energy efficiency.
Slate is another durable roofing option that can last up to 100 years. It’s an attractive and luxurious option for high-end houses, but it can be very heavy and require specialized framing to support the weight. It can also be more difficult to install and requires a professional.
Solar shingles are an eco-friendly alternative to conventional shingle roofs. They convert sunlight into electricity using photovoltaic technology. They’re becoming increasingly popular as the cost of fossil fuels rises. However, they’re still an expensive addition to a home and should only be installed by a qualified installer who specializes in building-integrated photovoltaics.
Permits
Many home improvement projects require homeowners to obtain permits before beginning work. For roofing projects, this is especially important to ensure that the roof replacement is completed properly and complies with local and state standards. If a mistake is made that causes lasting damage, homeowners may face fines or even have their homeowner’s insurance policy cancelled. For this reason, Modernize recommends that homeowners use a vetted and licensed contractor to pull the permit on their behalf.
Permit requirements vary by city, but homeowners should be aware that it’s typically illegal to perform roofing work without a permit in most cities. A permit is required if the roofing project will involve more than one layer of shingles or if 50 percent or more of the sheathing or deck must be replaced. The person responsible for obtaining the permit is usually the general contractor, although if the homeowner plans to do the work themselves, they should consider getting a license themselves.
A permit is also necessary for re-roofing and roof repairs, although there are some exceptions to this rule. For example, a permit is not needed if the repairs are limited to a small area of the roof or if the existing sheathing and roof deck will remain in place. Permits are also not always required for reroofing if the existing shingles are being removed and replaced with another type of material.
Homeowners should ask their contractors about licensing and permitting requirements, as these will be specific to the region. In addition, a local building department can provide information on when a permit is required. In most cases, calling or visiting the building department will help homeowners understand what work requires a permit and what work does not.
Lastly, homeowners should be aware of their contractor’s insurance coverage and whether it is limited or unlimited. In New York, for example, a residential roofing contractor must hold either an unlimited or limited general liability insurance to perform roofing work on homes. If the contractor is not insured, the homeowner should be concerned and may want to reconsider hiring them.
Safety
Residential roofers face an array of hazards while working on rooftops. As a result, workers must follow Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) guidelines for working at heights. Failure to do so can lead to serious injuries and even death for the workers involved.
For many residential roofers, implementing and adhering to safety protocols can feel inconvenient. They may see wearing harnesses, setting up guardrails and other safety measures as a disruption to the flow of the work. In addition, they can also perceive these measures as a hindrance to productivity because they must stop their work to ascend or descend the ladder to fasten the harness or install the guardrail.
These erroneous perceptions can lead to unsafe work practices, which is why it’s important for roofing companies to educate their workers on proper workplace procedures. This can be done through onsite training sessions or online learning modules. In addition, a company should have in place a system to track workers’ compliance with safety protocols. This can be done by using an app like SafetyCulture, which provides accessible learning modules on-demand and allows supervisors to view worker progress and compliance.
Before workers set foot on the roof, they should ensure that the area surrounding the worksite is blocked off from people, pets and children. It’s also a good idea to remove any materials that might cause falls, such as loose debris or snow and ice. In addition, they should wear footwear with good traction and be sure to avoid walking near power lines.
Lastly, roofers should ensure that they’re working with a fully-charged battery and have access to the tools and supplies they need. It’s also a good idea for them to keep their phones off and to communicate with colleagues on the ground via walkie talkies if possible.
Lastly, it’s a good idea for workers to take regular breaks on the roof. These breaks can help them stay hydrated and energized, which will make them more productive and prevent injuries. In addition, they should make sure that their workspace is free of debris and any materials that could hinder their visibility. For example, they should avoid putting metal brackets or ladders too close to the power lines. They should also use bungee cords to secure any power tools when they’re not in use and make sure that all hand tools are stored in buckets hung from the roof brackets.
Preparation
Replacing your roof is a major home improvement project that will disrupt your normal daily routine. During the project, your family will be living in a construction zone that is surrounded by tools and materials that could harm children or pets. Therefore, it is important to make preparations in advance so that everyone will be safe during the project. For instance, it’s a good idea to have your kids and pets stay with relatives or friends during the roofing process. This will keep them safe and also ensure that they won’t get in the way of the workers. Additionally, it’s a good idea to tidy up your yard and remove items that could be damaged by rain, dust, or debris. This includes outdoor furniture, grills, potted plants, and lawn decorations.
It is also a good idea to trim any trees or large limbs close to the roofline before the project begins. This will help the contractor to work safely and protect your landscaping from falling debris during the roof installation. Additionally, it’s a good time to cut the grass and clean the gutters so that water can flow away from your house during the roofing process.
Besides trimming any trees or shrubs, you’ll also want to clear the attic of items that are stored in the area. Even conscientious roofers will kick up a lot of dust during the replacement, and it’s best to relocate items that are in the attic. You can store them in the garage or another location that is far from the workspace.
Residential roofers need access to electrical outlets to complete their work, and it’s best if these are located outside of your house. If there are no exterior outlets available, you should place an extension cord in a spot where it will not come into contact with contractors or anyone else.
Whether you’re replacing your roof or building a new house, the right contractor can make all the difference. Look for a company that is licensed and insured, and has a solid reputation. Additionally, it’s a good to hire someone who has experience working with your type of roof. For example, a roofer who has worked with metal roofing will have a better understanding of how to install this type of roof.