Roofing 101: What to Know

Your roof has a big job to do: it protects your home from external influences such as storms, rain, snow, wind, and ice. But beyond the functional, it provides an aesthetic appeal for your property that reverberates throughout the whole neighborhood. When your roof looks good, it attracts people to the beauty of your property. Your curb appeal elevates, and your property value increases.

But it’s inevitable at some point that you will have to upgrade or replace your roof in Burlington, NC. Here’s a guide to familiarize yourself with the basics of roofing.

What Comprises a Roof?

A roof consists of basic components that contribute to its durability and longevity, such as:

• Trim: This protects the seams of the roof along the ridge.
• Rafters: Comprised of wood or metal, rafters offer support for the shingles, essentially forming the shape of your roof.
• Underlayment: This secures your home along the roof. Because it is waterproof, it doesn’t allow for the infiltration of water into the home.
• Shingles: Typically made from asphalt, shingles are the last line of defense for your roof against the weather.
• Drainage: Comprised of gutters and downspouts, your home’s drainage system diverts water off the roof and away from the foundation.
• Sheathing: Also known as the deck, these are sheet materials attached to the rafters that cover your home.
• Flashing: Installed around seams such as vents and chimneys, flashing protects your roof from water damage.

What Else You Should Know About Your Roof

1. Roof ventilation: Aeration is critical to your roof’s health; without it, mold and heat gain can result. Your roof will last much longer with good ventilation.
2. Last roof repair or installation date: It’s important to know the date your roof last underwent a repair or renovation. This will allow you to stay on top of the condition of your roof. Be on the lookout for leaks, as these can threaten the lifespan of your roof.
3. Fireproof rating: Fire ratings are based on the roofing materials’ resistance to fire and fire-related incidents. They are listed as A, B, and C. Class A has the highest resistance to fire, while Class C has the lowest. For example, wood is a class C material; metal is a class A.
4. Pitch and slope of your roof: The pitch of your roof will determine what type of shingles to use. Low pitches do best with a steel material. Medium pitches are best paired with asphalt and composite shingles. High pitches call for wood or slate shingles.
5. Type of shingles for your roof: Quality shingles contribute to a healthy roofing system; each one has its own durability and lifespan. Your choice of shingles will help you predict how long of a lifespan you can expect out of your roof.

Contact Redeem Roofing in Burlington, NC

Got more questions about roofing? Need help deciding on roofing materials? No worries. Just contact our roofing contractors in Burlington, NC for a free quote and consultation at 336-350-1450.

Redeem did an excellent job replacing my roof. It was fast, they did a quality job, and excellent job cleaning up. - Cindy S.