Need Help Picking a Roof That Can Take a Beating!
ArnoldTailor
| Posted in Tools for Home Building on
Hey everyone,
Hope you’re all having a great day! So, I’m diving into this whole home renovation adventure, and guess what? I’m stuck on picking the right roof. Where I live, the weather just can’t make up its mind. We get piles of snow, the sun blazing down in the summer, and every now and then, a windstorm or hail comes to say hello.
I’ve heard a bit about different types of roofs, like asphalt shingles, metal, and even clay tiles. But honestly, it’s a bit overwhelming, and I’m not really sure which one’s the best choice for standing up to this crazy weather.
Have any of you gone through the same thing? I’d love to hear your stories and get some advice on what worked (or didn’t work) for you.
And hey, if there’s some awesome roof type I haven’t heard about yet, I’m all ears! Also, I’m curious about how often I’d need to be up there fixing things, and any other tips or tricks you’ve got.
Thanks a bunch for your help!
Replies
What's more important than the covering of your roof (shingles, metal, slate, clay, tile) are the details on your sheathing and transitions at hips, valleys, walls, etc.
Taping seams, proper use of ice and water on the first 3-5 feet, flashing, counter flashing, integrating WRBs across planes, etc.
Are you DIYing or hiring for the roof?
You're so right about the importance of the fine details over just the materials! Thanks for emphasizing that. I'm planning to hire a pro for the job—those details are a bit beyond my DIY skills.
If you've got any tips for picking the right person for the job, or know someone who's up to snuff, I'd really appreciate it. Thanks a ton!
Pay attention to insulation and ventilation to preserve the roof deck.
Got it, insulation and ventilation are key. Thanks for the tip—I'll keep that in mind with the contractor. Appreciate it!
Given that Composition Shingles (not really asphalt anymore) come with Warranties of up to 50 years, you can't really go wrong with that tried and true installation. Don't get me wrong, I love other types of roof covering like metal, but when it comes to ease of repair and "walkability" if needed, composition shingles are unmatched. Metal, slate or clay will be damaged significantly by hail. Metal would last a long time but it's not always simple to repair. Metal can shed snow wonderfully but where will it land? Nothing like waking up to your freshly shoveled deck or walkways being bombarded by snow from your roof. I don't have as much experience with slate or clay, but I assume they can be difficult to work with, and adds a heck of a dead load to your roof framing.
In general, you are better off if you can stay off the roof once it is on, so if you have lots of trees, think about some kind of gutter guard that lets you avoid getting on the roof to clean them.
it's a good idea to minimize roof access once it's in place. If your area has a lot of trees, consider installing a gutter guard. It makes life easier by reducing the need to climb up and clean those gutters.
In all seriousness, asphalt shingles are like the reliable jeans of roofs. They handle snow, sun, and hail pretty well. Metal roofs are like the superhero capes – tough and durable. Clay tiles, they're like the fancy suits, but they can be delicate.
Maintenance? Well, let's just say, don't plan on turning into Spider-Man for rooftop adventures too often. Once in a while check for any surprise parties by leaves or critters
Absolutely agree. Staying off the roof is safer, and gutter guards are a great way to reduce maintenance. It's a smart move, especially with lots of trees around.