Roofing in the Summer? Here’s What You Need to Know.
Roofs are a big investment. Understandably, homeowners want them to last, and therefore raise concerns ranging from the effect of insulation placement on shingle lifespans to the effect of the environment on roofing installations. The good news is, with the help of a good roofing contractor, roofs can withstand hot conditions.
The Effect of Insulation
Homeowners and roofing companies alike have raised concerns about how insulation placement affects roof heat. They worry that insulation placed along the roofline above the attic, rather than along the ceiling below the attic, will increase the effect of heat and decrease the shingle lifespan. In 2000, the Florida Solar Energy Center conducted a study to address these concerns. They found that in houses with insulation along the roofline, the shingles were warmer by two degrees Fahrenheit on average, with a maximum difference of nine degrees Fahrenheit at noon. These heat differences were too small to make much of a difference in shingle lifespan.
The Effect of Environment
Installing roofs in temperatures above eighty degrees Fahrenheit or environments with high humidity can lead to overly malleable shingles and dried out the adhesive. However, experienced roofing contractors should know how to work around these setbacks. For example, they can apply adhesive more quickly in warmer weather so it does not dry out.
While it’s preferable to only expose roofs to ideal weather conditions, this frequently isn’t an option. Rest assured that even in the heat, a quality roof can last for a long time.
Factors That Shape Roofing Estimates
Why are some roof estimates seemingly sky high, while others seem a real steal? For context, HomeAdvisor’s roofing cost guide reports a 2016 national average roof cost of $6,794, based on job costs ranging between $2,000 and $25,000.
Simply put, all not roof estimates are created equally because no two roofs are identical. The particulars of each roof affect the amount of materials and labor required. Then there’s the competition component (reflected in cost estimates, financing, and more).
While roofs do differ from job to job, the following factors all weigh heavily on any professional roof estimate.
– Size and pitch of roof: the steeper the pitch, the bigger the roof, and the more labor, materials, and time needed.
– Choice of roofing materials, installation method, and number of layers: previously repaired roofs may have more layers to strip.
– Local building codes and local market: roof regulations, supply prices, and labor costs all vary by region.
– Skylights, chimneys, plumbing pipes, or other rooftop issues: the more of these there are, the higher the estimate.
Whether for a new roof or a repair, to find the best fit for the job, one should always get 2-3 estimates and accept the lowest offer that will still yield a leakproof, professionally installed roof. Remember: the smartest money many homeowners ever spend is on a top-quality roofing job.
Roofing 101: How to Decide Whether You Need a Metal, Shingle, or Tile Roof
Homeowners should invest time to select just the right roof since it will be an essential part of their home for many years to come. Carefully consider the following factors when trying to choose between a metal, shingle, or tile roof.
Style and Durability
The style of a home matters when it comes to choosing an optimal roof. For example, a tile roof is the traditional architectural choice for a Mediterranean style home. Even so, a metal roof can be used with a Mediterranean design to create clean lines. Using a metal roof helps ensure that minimal exterior cleaning and maintenance is necessary.
The Big Picture
In addition to style and practical factors when trying to pick between a metal, shingle, or tile roof, homeowners need to consider how environmentally friendly roofing materials are. Metal roofs win here. They cause only a small carbon footprint, unlike shingle roofs. Also, metal roofing materials are also often primarily made from recycled materials and help homeowners save on energy costs.
Finally, when looking for a new roof, homeowners need to take the time to assess their unique needs. While metal, shingle, and tile roofs all have something special to offer, metal roofs are energy-efficient and are likely to last the longest.