The global market for roofing materials is witnessing exponential growth. The numerous construction and renovation projects taking place have offered manufacturers huge opportunities. Bay area roofing demands for energy-efficient and stylish designs are driving the market in new directions.
Commercial Alternatives for Home Roofing Systems
When considering the options for bay area roofing, you have more alternatives than traditional shingles and tile roofs. Some of the newest options have been taken from large-scale commercial projects and made feasible for home use.
The experts at American Foam Experts can tell you the pros and cons of each style of roof and which would be best for your home and roofing needs.
Spray Polyurethane Foam (SPF)
SPF roofs are liquid foam sprayed on the existing roof. As it expands, the foam can take any shape, conforming to the shape of the roof, including irregular ones. SPF can be applied directly over shingles, asphalt, concrete, wood, or metal.
SPF roofing is achieved by mixing and spraying a liquid with two components. Once sprayed, it becomes the base of an adherent roof system. It can be applied in various thicknesses, providing the specified thermal resistance.
The first component is closed cell, rigid, spray polyurethane foam insulation. It’s made up of polyol and isocyanate. The other component of SPF is the elastomeric protective surfacing. This layer provides protection against environmental elements, mechanical damage, and UV exposure. The two components are mixed using a spray gun to attain a well-balanced proportion.
Using SPF for your roof comes with a myriad of advantages. The material is easy to install and maintain, energy-efficient, and sustainable. To enhance its durability, have it installed by a roofing professional with knowledge of SPF.
Roof Shingles
Roofing shingles have been the standard for roofing since roofs began. The first “shingles” of the Middle Ages were bundles of thatch tied into wooden frames. Roofing has come a long way since then.
When laid on the roof, shingles create a protective barrier against snow, ice, and water. Each shingle joint is overlapped by another shingle further up the roof. This prevents water from leaking through the roof and allows it to drain to the ground. Leaks lead to decay of the ceiling below, and damage to the walls, so the services of a qualified roofing plumber during installation are essential.
The type of roof shingle you choose has an enormous impact on the value of your home. Shingles not only protect your home, but they’re also a great part of the appearance of the house. Good-looking shingles make your house look appealing as well as safe from the elements.
Types of Roof Shingles
Roof shingles are designated by style and material. Styles and materials vary widely based on their purpose, use, and aesthetic appeal. Housing codes and zoning regulations may also affect what type of shingles can be used on your home’s roof.
The range of roof shingles frequently seen on U.S. roofs includes:
- 3-Tab Roof Shingles. Also known as asphalt shingles and are commonly used in North America. These are easy to install, inexpensive, and readily recyclable at the end of their usefulness.
- Architectural Shingles. These premium roofing materials are also known as laminated or dimensional shingles. They’re highly durable and are often used in new or newly-remodeled buildings because of their long-lasting qualities.
- Tile Shingles. These combine the appearance of clay or terracotta with the easy installation of shingles. These are more energy-efficient than some other types of shingles and add extra curb appeal to your roof.
- Wood Shingles. Wood shingles are one of the oldest shingles in existence. They combine good looks, easy installation and repair, and outstanding insulation qualities. They’re not always ideal as a bay area roofing choice in light of the risk of fire. In fact, some wildfire-prone communities have banned the use of wood shingles.
- Shake Shingles. These beautiful wood shingles are traditionally made of cedar, renowned for their durability in wet climates. Shake shingles are more expensive than standard wood shingles, and they have the same pros and cons associated with ordinary wood shingles.
- Slate Shingles. A stone replacement option for wood, slate shingles are durable, fireproof, and come in an astonishing array of natural colors. Slate is heavier than wood, so your roof may require some extra support. Slate can also be brittle, so it isn’t recommended for regions that experience frequent hailstorms.
- Solar shingles. These are an exciting innovation in the renewable energy market. Invented by Uni-Solar, these thin photovoltaic panels act like regular shingles but have solar cells built into the body of the shingle. They’re more expensive than standard shingles but are a great investment in renewable energy.
Clay or Terracotta Roofs
Clay or terracotta half-pipe roofing materials are often seen in Californian and Southwestern architecture. Clay roofs are ideal for these environments since they resist fire, heavy rainfall, and insect and animal intrusion. Clay roofing material comes in a wide range of styles and colors, and it compliments almost any building style.
Clay roofs are much heavier than wooden or foam roofs and may require additional support, particularly in older homes being refitted. Clay roofing can be expensive initially, but is extremely durable, and requires very little maintenance beyond periodic checks for broken tiles.
Metal Roofing
These roofs are ideal in mountain settings since they’re nearly invulnerable to rain, snow, and fire. Metal roofing materials usually consist of aluminum, coated steel, zinc alloys, or copper. Stainless steel or galvanized steel should be used with care because of the dangers of rust, especially in bay area roofing systems.
The most frequently seen metal roof system is the standing seam roof. These are corrugated or flat metal panels with straight raised ribs running along the roof slope. Steeply pitched roofs help shed snow and water in winter. The main disadvantage to metal roofs is noise. They aren’t recommended in areas prone to hail or prolonged rain.
Silicon Roofing
Silicon is an affordable, durable, and cost-effective coating for existing roofs, as well as an ideal material for a new home. Silicon roofing does not require double coating and primer. One coat is all that’s necessary, so you save on money and materials when your roof is installed.
Evaluations and Estimates – Determining the Type of Roof You Need
Choosing a roof for your home is not just about curb appeal. You must take into consideration the durability and functionality of the roofing materials you choose. A variety of roofs suitable for bay area homes are on the market today.
The most desirable roof is one that’s durable, easy to install, and requires little maintenance or return services by the installer. Spray foam over an existing roof meets all these requirements and can be applied with less effort than a traditional roof.
Consult our Expert Roofing Team
At American Foam Experts, we’ve been providing the Bay Area with quality products and top services for more than half a century. We can give you commercial and residential foam roofing with a 15-year warranty and reasonable rates. Call or visit our website for more details.