Roofing
Roofing Systems
The roof is part of the exterior but requires more individual
attention. It is designed to protect all the components of the
dwelling. There are many roof styles and finished materials. Each
style and material is inspected carefully for, wear, leaks, defects
and other deficiencies. Roofing problems that go undetected can
cause serious harm to other components of the building. Styles and
types of roofs are dictated by location, age, and preference. Your
inspector will carefully evaluate the condition of the material
used, note defects and discuss the possible remaining life
expectancy of the roof surface.
Roofing Systems - Designs
Roofs are designed in an abundance of styles and combinations.
Most roof designs have a pitch or slope. The slope of the roof
allows it to shed water, reduce ultraviolet exposure and prolong the
life of the roofing material. Roofing designs are selected to both
protect the building and add ascetic appeal. Gable and Hip roofs are
the most commonly seen roofs on homes. Flat roofs are often used to
add curb appeal and save expense on construction. Each roof design
is constructed differently and has potential problems if not
installed and maintained correctly. When roof coverings have been
changed as they wear out or renovations are undertaken, the roof
design must be able to accommodate the new installation. Many roofs
are designed using a combination of alternatives. The inspector will
carefully check the roof framing where visible, the sheathing,
flashing, and roof covering for any visible defects or wear. A badly
designed or installed roofing system can be a source of constant
problems and extensive damage to the inner building envelope.
Designs - Hip Roofing
Hip roofs are almost as popular as gable roofs. Hip roofs have no
valleys unless extended with a different roof type. The hip rafters
support the roof surface and framing at angles which eliminate
valleys that can leak and wear. When installed correctly, hip
roofing design is the most favorable for a home because its angles
help it deflect the elements from a home. Your professional
inspector will be looking carefully for good quality construction
and installation as hip roofs are a little more complicated to
install and when done improperly are very difficult to repair
without a large expense.
Designs - Gable Roofing
Gable roofs are the most commonly seen roof throughout the
country. Besides a flat roof they are the easiest to install for a
builder and in today’s construction may be quickly erected using
pre-fabricated truss systems. Gable roofs are often done in
combination with dormers or valley type connections. The
connections, valleys and dormers are inspected carefully by your
inspector for leaks, roof surface damage and other defects. A gable
roof usually is vented at the ends and may also have other venting
systems such as soffit vents, static roof vents, ridge venting or an
attic fan.
Designs - Flat Roofing
It has been said that roofers install flat roofs so they can
forever charge for repairs! A flat roof is just as it sounds, flat.
These roofs in residential construction usually are prone to leaks
at all penetrations, wear quickly and may sag. This type of roof
installation is fast and inexpensive. Many extensions are
constructed using either a flat or shed-style roof because non-
professionals install them and framing is simple to manage. Flat
roofs are often inspectors biggest concern when they arrive at the
home. Your inspector will suspect problems related to them before
they see the roof or the inside of the home because flat roofs
almost always leak. Many flat roofs are abandoned after frustration
and expense over years and a gable roof is installed right over
them.
Shed Roofing
Shed roof styles are merely a large rectangular surface at a
slope of 2 inches per foot or greater. Low sloped shed roofs wear
out quickly, while more generously sloped shed roofs of 5 inches per
foot can last as long as a gable installation. Shed roofs are
inspected particularly for shifting or sagging. The design does not
take advantage of one side of the roof pushing against the other
like in a gable roof. Since most shed roofs have relatively low
slopes they are prone to leaks and wear more quickly. Most shed
roofs are installed for cost effectiveness and workmanship on
extensions done using shed roofs must be carefully evaluated for
defects.
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of your home, click on a section below.
