Types of Roofing
Asphalt shingles account for about 80% of the residential
roof surfacing in
the United States. Asphalt shingles are measured against a
variety of standards that evaluate fire and wind resistance,
tear strength, and other key performance indicators. Asphalt
shingles come in "standard" (or 3-tab) and "designer"
(architectural or multi-layered) varieties. Standard
shingles have a lightly-textured flat surface, while
designer shingles have a highly textured surface.
Wood shingles and shakes are made from cedar, redwood,
southern pine and other woods; their natural look is popular
in California, the Northwest and parts of the Midwest. Wood
shingles are machine-sawn; shakes are handmade and rougher
looking. A point to consider: Some local building codes
limit the use of wood shingles and shakes because of
concerns about fire resistance. Many wood shingles and
shakes only have Class C fire ratings or no ratings at all.
However, Class A fire ratings are available for certain wood
shingle products that incorporate a factory-applied,
fire-resistant treatment.
Tile — clay or concrete — is a durable roofing material.
Mission and Spanish-style round-topped tiles are used widely
in the Southwest and Florida, and flat styles also are
available to create French and English looks. Tile is
available in a variety of colors and finishes. Tile is
heavy. If you are replacing another type of roof system with
tile, you will need to verify that the structure can support
the load.
Slate is quarried in the United States in Vermont, New York,
Pennsylvania and Virginia. It is available in different
colors and grades, depending on its origin. Considered
virtually indestructible, it is, however, more expensive
than other roofing materials. In addition, its application
requires special skill and experience. Many old homes,
especially in the Northeast, still are protected by this
long-lasting roofing material.
Metal, primarily thought of as a low-slope roofing material,
has been found to be a roofing alternative for home and
building owners with steep-slope roofs. There are two types
of metal roofing products: panels and shingles. Numerous
metal panel shapes and configurations exist. Metal shingles
typically are intended to simulate traditional roof
coverings, such as wood shakes, shingles and tile. Apart
from metal roofing's longevity, metal shingles are
relatively lightweight, have a greater resistance to adverse
weather and can be aesthetically pleasing. Some have Class A
fire ratings.
Synthetic roofing products simulate various traditional roof
coverings, such as slate and wood shingles and shakes.
However, they do not necessarily have the same properties.
Before making a buying decision, NRCA recommends that you
look at full-size samples of a proposed product, as well as
manufacturers' brochures. It also is a good idea to visit a
building that is roofed with a particular product.
Source: National Roofing Contractors Association (NCRA)
Article Source:
http://www.articlesbase.com/home-improvement-articles/types-of-roofing-164199.html
|
Areas We Service in New Jersey