As you consider the different types of roofing materials on the market, it’s important to fully investigate any material that you choose before using it to shelter a residential or commercial building.
While each roofing material has its own advantages and disadvantages, there are several guidelines to keep in mind that will determine how to make a final selection in residential or commercial roofing:
- Count the Cost: Most roofing equipment suppliers sell roofing materials by the square, which covers a 100 ft.2 area.
You can price roofing for a residential or commercial structure by multiplying the width and length of a roof to determine its area; remember to add an extra 10% to account for waste. Take this number and divide it by 100 to calculate exactly how many squares a project will need.
- Reconsider Layering: Many times, a home or business can benefit from the complete removal of an old roof with new installation for a longer lasting final product. While most roof structures are strong enough to support two layers, installing heavy shingles on top of a single roof layer could place unnecessary stress on roof rafters.
Removing a damaged roof instead of layering can also help to expose water damage, insect infestation, and rot to correct serious roofing issues before they spread further.
- Check a Warranty: If you’re looking to replace your residential or commercial roof, it’s important to check on material and labor warranties before hiring a new contractor or doing it yourself.
Many professional roofing companies will offer a complete reimbursement on all labor and materials used in a roof for a limited time. For this reason, it’s critical to keep all invoices and receipts from both manufacturers and contractors.
- Assess Weight: If you have your heart set on a certain type of roof for your home or business, it is first important to determine if the structure can hold the weight of the roofing materials.
Some types of laminated shingles can weigh up to 200 pounds per square. Using overly heavy roofing materials could place unnecessary strain on a structure, especially when shingling over another layer.
