The global market for roofing materials is witnessing exponential growth. The many construction and renovation projects going on have offered manufacturers huge opportunities. The growth of energy-efficient roofs is one of the factors that have propelled market growth.
Having a good residential roof is more than just about the aesthetic value. It’s also about your security and protection. The roof protects your home from the wear and tear caused by natural elements.
The industry started with haystacks and simple roofing materials. Today, it has grown to include a wide range of products. Roofers now encompass materials like natural wood and slate.
They also include human-made products like sheet metal, asphalt, and plastic polymers. When choosing roofing materials for your home in the Bay Area, ensure it can withstand downpours and gusting winds.
Here are several types ideal for such homes.
1. Spray Polyurethane Foam (SPF)
SPF roofs are liquid foam sprayed on the existing roof and allowed to expand into a foam. In the process, 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 roof systems are 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 of SPF is closed cell, rigid, spray polyurethane foam insulation. It’s made up of polyol and isocyanate. The two components are mixed using a spray gun to attain a well-balanced proportion.
The other component of SPF is the protective surfacing. This is basically an elastomeric coating applied by spraying. It may also be applied using hand and power rollers. This layer provides protection against environmental elements, mechanical damage, and UV exposure.
Using SPF or 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.
2. Roof Shingles
The type of roof shingle you choose has an enormous impact on the value of your home. It also affects durability and the quality of protection your house gets. Shingles consist of a series of overlapping components.
When laid on the roof, they offer a protective barrier against snow, ice, and water. During installation, each shingle joint is overlapped by another shingle further up the roof. The joints prevent water from leaking and alternatively falls to the ground.
If water leaks, you’ll end up with rotten wood and ceiling. It’s therefore crucial that you use the services of a qualified roofing plumber in their installation.
Types of Roof Shingles
Roof shingles are differentiated by their style and material. Each style influences the look of the building depending on how they’re installed. Different shingles are manufactured using varying materials.
Some common roof shingles include:
I). 3-Tab Roof Shingles
They’re commonly known as asphalt shingles and are commonly used in North America. Apart from being easy to install, they’re also very affordable. They are complementary to most home designs.
II). Architectural Shingles
They’re a premium type of roofing materials, commonly used in roof repairs or new construction projects. Architectural shingles are also known as laminated or dimensional shingles. Many homeowners prefer to use them because they’re highly durable.
III). Tile Roof Shingles
Roof tiles are more energy efficient in roofing than other types. They are commonly used on historical properties and homes with California architecture style.
Tile roof shingles are mostly available in wave-shape but come in many styles and colors.
IV). Wood Roof Shingles
Wood shingles have a long history, and they’ve lasted this long because of their sustainability. They’re better in offering insulation than asphalt. When combined with other construction styles, they create a unique style and look for your home.
V). Shake Roof Shingles
Shake shingles have also been used for years. Traditionally, they were made from splitting logs of wood along the grain. The most common type of wood used is cedar, which has strong durability qualities.
Shake roof shingles are different from wood shingles in that they have a texture and rustic appearance. Wood shakes also have a thicker profile than wood shingles.
VI). Slate Roof Shingles
Slate roof shingles came as a roof replacement for wooden shingles. They’re famous for their durability, fireproof, and eco-friendly qualities. Homeowners also like slate roof shingles because they provide a 100% natural roof in a variety of colors.
Modern technology has made it easy to create synthetic slate roof tiles made from a combination of materials.
VII). Solar Roof Shingles
This type is a relatively new invention in the market. The solar shingles were invented by Uni-Solar, made of thin-film photovoltaic cells. They closely resemble traditional shingles and perform the same function as other shingles.
However, they’re unique in that they convert the sun’s energy into electricity. You can take advantage of this power and use in your home to save on bills. Solar roof shingles can withstand high winds and high-speed hail impact.
3. Clay or Terracotta Roofs
Clay or terracotta roofing materials are ideal for use in modern, Spanish, Southwestern, and Mediterranean homes. An advantage of clay is that it’s resistant to burning, rotting, and insects. Clay also offers the versatility of styles and colors, not forgetting that it requires no maintenance.
Unfortunately, clay isn’t cheap and is also very fragile. You may also need to add some support for the especially if being installed in a place with many trees.
4. Metal Roofing
The most common type of roofing system is the standing seam roof. It consists of corrugated or flat metal panels. They also feature straight raised ribs running up and down the roof slope on each board.
The roofing materials used in metal roofing systems are either aluminum or coated steel. Other metals like zinc alloys, copper, or stainless steel are also used sometimes. Manufacturers are incorporating more metal roof styles to the flat panels.
In other words, there are metal roofs that resemble shingles, slate rocks, wood shakes, or clay tiles.
5. Silicon Roofing
Silicon is one of the most affordable roofing materials available. It’s also durable, and highly cost effective. Whether you are looking for new roof coating or want to do a replacement, silicon is an ideal choice.
The roof is made from 100% silicon which prevents leakages more effectively than other materials. It doesn’t require double coating and primer, hence saves you money and materials.
Roofing Materials – Summing Up
Choosing a roof for your home is not just about the curb appeal. You have to take into consideration the durability and functionality of the roofing materials you choose. On the market today are a variety of roofs suitable for Bay Area homes.
Most of them have come a long way, but they’ve been modified to fit a modern look. If you are looking to have the durability, ease of mind, and an expert roofing team taking care of you, spray polyurethane foam roofing materials is the way to go.