A residential roofing system is an advanced and thought-out combination of materials that layer and cover the top part of homes to protect the ceiling from seepages and water damage. However, a properly designed roofing installation will do much more than just prevent water damage. It can also keep your home’s attic cool and dry.

Overall, a well-designed roofing system can make a home a much more comfortable place to be. So what are the elements that contribute to a high-performing roofing system?  Learn about the aspects of a good roofing system.

High-Performance Leak Barrier

A good roofing system requires a high-performance leak barrier. This protects some of the most vulnerable areas of the roof. Around the eaves, plumbing vents, valleys, and chimneys are areas and spots that are most vulnerable to environmental damage and leaks.

This is why a good roofing installation should prioritize the protection of these areas that are located mainly around the corners. Today’s leak barrier consists of a rubberized compound that creates a waterproof protective barrier.

Roof Deck Prevention

This helps prevent wind-driven rain that has the potential to creep under the shingles and into your home. Traditionally, roofers will use roof felt for roof deck protection.

However, today, there are high-performance products that will offer long-term protection. These products can work even better than inexpensive felts.

Metal Drip Edge

This is a component that helps keep water away from the roof’s edges. In addition to that, it provides a clean and sleek look to your roof. Another thing that adds to the roof’s aesthetic is the specially designed starter strips at the eves of your roof.

Starter strips come with a factory-applied adhesive that can lock the first row of your shingles in place. They will also help prevent blow-offs. These installations also help roofers move forward to shingle installation.

Ridge Vent

The contractor can help you install a ridge vent at the top of your roof. This, along with corresponding soffit vents in your intake vents or eaves, will pave the way for moist and hot damaging air to escape from your attic.

The final component that a contractor will likely install on top of the roof is a ridge cap shingle. This gives a nice, finished look to your roof.

Roofing Type Selection

You have to make sure that your contractor installs all the components of a complete roofing system and guides you through all the roofing types that will work best for your roof. There are many materials of roofing shingles that you can install, each varying in qualities, benefits, and drawbacks.

Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles are one of the most popular of all roofing materials. One of the main reasons why they are so popular is because they are affordable. Not only are they economical, but they also have a very easy installation process.

This is why a roofer will be first to suggest this when clients ask him for the best option that does not break the budget.

They are also very durable and light in weight. Furthermore, you can also find them in multitudes of color selections and designs. Another reason why roofers like using them is because they are resilient to different hostile temperatures.

In Florida, where the sun is intense most times of the year, asphalt shingles last homeowners about 15 to 20 years.

Cedar Shingles

Cedar shingles, like asphalt, are a favorite option amongst homeowners in the US. One of the many reasons why people love this residential roofing type is its reliability. They can withstand environmental damages in all climates and environments.

Nonetheless, their resistance to UV rays makes them especially great for hot sunny climates. Not to mention, they are also amazing for locations that experience extreme weather outbreaks, such as hurricanes and thunderstorms.

There is another sub-category of cedar shingles, known as the wood shake shingles. These are eco-friendly choices for homeowners that are highly concerned about their carbon footprint.

They consist of recycled wood, and the manufacturing process is ecological. Overall, both these options help you get the added value of enhanced insulation.

If you are looking to slash your energy expenses, a cedar roof is an excellent choice. Since they provide good insulation, you no longer will have to rely on your home’s cooling and ventilation system to moderate temperatures.

All of these advantages justify the expensive costs of the cedar shingles and wood shakes.

Metal Roofing

Metal roofing is often not the first choice for many people, but they are starting to gain popularity. Since they are low on maintenance, environmentally friendly, and light in weight, they are not a bad choice for homeowners.

Nonetheless, they have some drawbacks that keep them from being the top choice ahead of asphalt and cedar shingles. To start with, their installation process is more difficult.

Moreover, some metallic materials are hard to find, which makes them costly. The labor cost is also higher since metal is heavier.

Ceramic

Quality tiles are incredibly lasting and will last homeowners about 50 to 70 years. If you are looking for one that adds aesthetic and character to your home, you should opt for ceramic roofing.

Roof tiling is an architectural trait that you find most commonly in Spanish homes. Tiles such as these align beautifully in parallel rows. Nonetheless, along with being costly, they are also vulnerable to erosion under extreme temperatures.  Furthermore, they are fragile and easily damaged.

You can pick from top synthetic materials when it comes to roofing options. These include TPO, PVC, and EPDM. Therefore, residents and home investors have plenty of options to choose from when picking a roofing system. The best are ones that suit the temperature of your home, fit your budget, and have lasting qualities. Aesthetics are subjective and shouldn’t be prioritized when picking the best roofing option.

With decades of experience in home contracting, you can trust our experienced team to complete your residential roof on time and on budget. We have a toolbox of services and quality products ready for you to choose from, along with our own public adjustor to work with insurance when warranted.

From start to finish, we’ll get your new residential roof and add you to our list of happy customers.

Contact us today for a free estimate!