Homeowners and businesses have a wide variety of roofing materials to choose from, and 1st Capital Certified Roofing has plenty of experience in installing some of the highest quality and most popular ones out there. Here’s some information about each type of roofing material that we work with, and what it takes to install a quality roof that will stand the test of time.
Asphalt Shingle Roof
This is the most common roofing type in the US. Many homeowners choose asphalt shingles because they’re economical, easy to install, and reasonably durable. With so many colors and styles to choose from, you’re sure to find one that fits the style of your house as well as your budget.
This type of roof typically lasts for about 15 to 30 years, depending on the quality of the materials and environmental conditions. The shingles are composed of a fiberglass or organic base, saturated in asphalt, and topped with flecks of slate, ceramic, or quartz. At the beginning of the project, it’s important that the underlay and flashing are properly installed in order to keep the elements out and ensure the longevity of your roof. Then the shingles are securely nailed down, with the pieces of material overlapping each other
Metal Roofing
Metal roofs are becoming an increasingly popular option for homeowners who want a roof that will last much longer, have less problems, and save them money. If you’re looking for something that’s fire-resistant and able to withstand extreme weather like hail, metal roofs are it. They’re great at deflecting heat, which means your house stays cooler in the summer. They also provide excellent insulation during the cold winter months. Metal roofs last about 40 to 70 years, which means your house looks great to both a potential buyer and your insurance agent. You can choose between the traditional metal panels (sometimes called standing-seam), or metal shingles that are made to look like asphalt, ceramic, or slate.
A standing-seam metal roof is constructed by nailing the panels down on top of the existing roof, so that the raised seams interlock and act as a moisture barrier. Next, the ventilation is installed, along with flashing along the edges. Metal shingles are made of stamped steel or aluminum, and topped with mineral granules or other type of coating. They come already nailed together in panels or rows, so installation consists of nailing the pieces onto the structure in order that they overlap, creating a tight barrier.
Tile Roofs
Tile roofs are very popular on Mediterranean or Spanish style homes, but can look great on most any style of house. Since this type of roof is not as common, they offer a unique look with lots of curb appeal. They do very well in hot, dry climates, and can withstand high winds. Tile roofs are also extremely long-lived, often 100 years or more when properly maintained. This can be a major selling point if you’re looking to make your home more marketable. Homeowners can choose between concrete, terracotta clay, or ceramic tile, with concrete being the least expensive.
The concrete or clay is molded into the desired shape, and the clay can be glazed and fired afterwards in order to make ceramic tile. When installing a tile roof, it’s essential that the asphalt underlay is properly placed and secured. If not, the tiles can be displaced very easily. Next, nail the tiles down so that they interlock with each other in a tight, compact manner. Finally, nail down the edging so that everything looks polished and stays in place.
Commercial & TPO Roofing
The two major types of commercial roofing systems are built-up roofs and single-ply TPO membrane roofs. Built-up roof systems are essentially several layers of supporting felt alternated with asphalt or tar, and topped off with stone or gravel. This type of roof can last 40 years if properly maintained. They’re waterproof, seamless, and require minimal maintenance.
A single-ply TPO (Thermoplastic Polyolefin) roof is made from rubber and woven carbon filler or fiberglass. It can last 30 years with the proper upkeep, and can be made fire-resistant upon request. This type of roof is also great at deflecting heat, which can save you money on energy costs. During the installation of a TPO roofing system, sheets of TPO are ballasted, chemically adhered, or mechanically fastened to existing insulation. Then the seams are heat welded together, along with any joints.
A new roof is a major purchase for any home or business, as well as a major undertaking for us that we take very seriously. It’s important to us that our potential customers are informed about their options, and make the best choice for their unique situation.