Roofing a house is no small task, and it is vital to do it right the first time to avoid any costly repairs or replacements down the road. This guide will cover all the basics you need to know about roofing a house, including the different types of roofing materials and the steps you need to take to ensure a proper installation.
Types of Roofing Materials
Many different types of roofing materials are available on the market today, each with its benefits and drawbacks. The most common roofing materials used in residential applications are asphalt shingles, metal roofs, and tile roofs.
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are the most popular roofing material used in residential applications due to their low cost and easy installation. Asphalt shingles come in various colors and styles to suit any taste, and they can last anywhere from 15-20 years with proper care and maintenance.
Metal Roofs
Metal roofs are becoming increasingly popular due to their durability and energy efficiency. Metal roofs can last up to 50 years with proper care and maintenance, and they can help keep your home cooler in the summer months thanks to their reflective surface.
Metal roofs come in various colors and styles to suit any taste, but they are more expensive than asphalt shingles and can be more difficult to install.
Tile Roofs
Tile roofs are commonly found in homes in warmer climates due to their ability to withstand high temperatures. Tile roofs can last up to 100 years with proper care and maintenance, but they are costly and difficult to install. Tile roofs come in various colors and styles to suit any taste, but they may not be suitable for all homes due to their weight.
Effective Steps on How To Roof A House
Now that you know about the different roofing materials available let’s discuss the steps you need to take when roofing your house. These steps include:
Measuring Your Roof: The first step in roofing your house is to measure your roof, so you know how much material you’ll need. Additionally, you’ll want to ensure that you have enough material to account for any waste that might occur during installation.
Choosing the Right Roofing Material: The next step is to select the right roofing material for your needs. As we discussed earlier, three main roofing materials are available today: asphalt shingles, metal roofs, and tile roofs.
Each type of material has its benefits and drawbacks, so you’ll need to decide which is best for your home based on your budget, climate, and aesthetic preferences.
Calculating the Amount of Material You’ll Need: Once you’ve chosen the type of material you’ll be using, you’ll need to figure out how much of it you’ll need to complete the job. This calculation will be based on the size of your roof and the type of material you’ve chosen – remember that some materials require more waste than others.
Installing the Underlayment: The next step is to install an underlayment over your entire roof before installing the actual shingles or tiles. This step is vital as it provides an additional layer of protection against water damage and helps extend the lifespan of your new roof.
Installing the Drip Edge: Once you’ve installed the underlayment, you’ll need to install a drip edge around the perimeter of your roof. You should always start on the bottom edges and work your way up, using a pneumatic nail gun to secure the drip edge.
Installing the Shingles or Tiles: After you’ve installed the underlayment and drip edge, you’re finally ready to install the shingles or tiles. Start at the bottom edge and work your way up, overlapping each shingle or tile. Make sure to use a pneumatic nail gun to secure them, not overdrive the nails.
Inspect This Work: After completing all of these steps, you must inspect your work to ensure that the job was done right. Look for loose shingles or tiles and any gaps or issues with the underlayment and drip edge.
Clean-Up Area: Lastly, don’t forget to clean up the area around your house after completing the roofing job to ensure that any debris or leftover materials are correctly disposed of. This is because these materials can cause damage to your lawn or cause accidents if left unchecked.
While roofing a house can seem daunting, following these steps and taking proper safety precautions will ensure you complete the job. And remember, if you feel unsure about tackling this project on your own, it’s always best to hire professionals like us at Trojan Roofing for assistance.
Trojan Roofing: Top Roofing Services Provider in Indianapolis
Do you need assistance with roofing your house in Indianapolis? Look no further than Trojan Roofing. Our team of experienced professionals can handle all of your roofing needs, from installation to repair and maintenance. We offer a variety of roofing materials and can work with any budget. Our services are guaranteed to leave your roof in top shape. Contact us today for a free quote. We look forward to serving you.