When you invest in a new roof, you want it done right the first time. A good roofing job requires professional installation from experienced technicians with the skills and knowledge to do the job correctly. You should expect your roofing contractor to take the time to assess your specific roofing needs, recommend suitable materials and installation techniques, and then execute the job with precision and care. A properly installed roof should be level, flat, and free of any bumps or irregularities, providing a secure and reliable barrier between you and the elements outside. If you’re considering replacing or updating your roof, here are highlights of what makes a good roofing job different from a poor one.
Roof Decking
A well-constructed roof requires thorough attention to detail, starting with the roof decking. The decking is the foundation for the rest of the roof installation. When replacing or repairing your roof, a reputable company will first carefully inspect the existing decking for damage that may negatively affect the project’s outcome. They will inform you of any issues and explain what they will do to fix the problem.
Once they start the work, a company you can trust will use durable materials, such as oriented strand board (OSB), ensuring the decking will hold up over time. In addition, an experienced roofer will ensure the decking is level, smooth, and free from defects once this stage is complete.
Underlayment
This layer provides additional protection beneath your shingles and will help prevent water from seeping into cracks or crevices. Quality underlayment should be made of a durable, waterproof material such as asphalt-saturated felt paper or rubberized asphalt. Using the right underlayment for your climate is essential, as this can significantly affect how well it performs over time. For example, in rainy areas, a poor quality underlayment can allow moisture to seep through, which will cause the decking to expand and deform.
Your contractor should also ensure that all seams are sealed properly with asphalt-based cement, which will prevent water from leaking through these vulnerable spots. In addition, a good roofer will use plastic wind strips along the edges of the underlayment material in high-wind areas to prevent ripping.
Flashing
One essential factor of a well-done roof is durable flashing. Flashing is the metal pieces installed around roof penetrations, such as chimneys or skylights, to prevent water from seeping in. Suitable flashing is made of high-quality materials like aluminum, steel, or copper. These materials, when installed correctly, should withstand exposure to weather for years and may outlast the original roof they were installed on.
A reputable roofer will inspect your flashing and let you know if it is in good shape. Not having to install new flashing may reduce the roof replacement cost.
Top Layer
The top layer of your roof system will be the type of roofing material you choose, such as asphalt shingles, cedar shake roofing, or synthetic roofing. A reputable roofer will talk you through your options and the advantages and disadvantages of each. Factors to consider may be things like aesthetics, durability, and cost.
During this project stage, a good roofer will begin with starter shingles. Starter shingles go under the first row of shingles before they are installed. This process ensures that there’s roofing material between the joints where the shingles meet each other on the edges of your roof so water does not penetrate through the seams and degrade this roof area.
A roofer installs ridge capping at the top of the roof where the two slopes meet to finish this stage of the project. A good roofing company will use shingles that are designed for this purpose. They are thicker than regular ones and pre-bent. Unfortunately, some less reputable roofers use standard shingles for topping roof ridges to cut costs. They’re inappropriate for this application and will lead to a roof leak.
Energy Efficiency Considerations
A good roofing job does more than protect your home from the elements. It can also improve its energy efficiency. A properly installed and insulated roof can contribute to temperature regulation inside your home, reducing heating and cooling costs. This is achieved through a combination of materials and techniques, such as reflective coatings, insulation materials, and ventilation systems, which work together to keep your home comfortable and efficient.
A good roofer will bring up energy efficiency considerations when you approach them about replacing or repairing your roof. They understand that a roof is only one part of the larger picture of your home’s energy consumption. They also know that many homeowners upgrade the insulation in their attics and under the roof during a roof replacement to avoid the hassle of two separate renovations.
Warranty Coverage
Warranty coverage is important when getting a new roof or repairing an existing one. A good roofing job should have a warranty for a certain period. This warranty should cover flaws in craftwork and materials used, providing peace of mind for the homeowner.
A reputable roofing contractor will offer an explicit, concise, and easy-to-understand warranty and stand behind their work to ensure customer satisfaction. Warranty coverage protects homeowners from unexpected repair costs and shows that the roofing company is committed to providing a quality job that lasts.
Attractive Overall Appearance
A good roof not only protects from the elements but also enhances the overall look of your home and may increase its selling value. A good roofing company will recommend a roof design and materials that complement your home’s architectural style and add curb appeal.
Professional Clean-up
Good roofing jobs don’t end when the shingles are in place and the warranty paperwork is signed. It also includes a thorough clean-up after the installation. A professional contractor should take care to clean up any debris, garbage, or other materials that have been used during the process.
This includes removing nails and screws from your lawn or driveway, wiping down surfaces that may have been affected by dust, and properly disposing of all leftover materials. Leaving your property clean shows respect for your home and reflects well on their professionalism as roofers.
Quality Assurance
Finally, a quality roofing job needs follow-up visits to ensure everything works properly. A good roofing contractor will inspect the roof a few weeks after installation, ensuring that all shingles are in place and that there are no issues with the underlayment or flashing.
In addition, experts recommend that you have your roof inspected once a year. During these visits, a roofer will check for signs of damage, such as water leaks or loose shingles. By performing these follow-up visits and making necessary repairs or adjustments, a good roofing company will ensure its customers know their roof is reliable and secure.
Contact Us
At Quality Roofing, we have been serving the residents of Orlando, Florida for over 16 years. Our experts have the experience and know-how to replace or repair your roof. We also offer roof inspection and maintenance services. Contact us today to schedule an appointment or to discuss your roofing options.
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