Getting Familiar with Materials and Terms Used by Residential Roofers & Contractors
When it comes to having a roof over your head, you want to have a solid one. When there are questions or issues with the roof on your home, you need to have a qualified residential roofing contractor in your corner. We are here to provide you with some general roofing information to help you get a good understanding of the industry and to help you form the most appropriate questions for your needs when you deal with a local Tucson roofing service expert.
Whether you want to design the home of your dreams with a brand new home construction, retrofitting a fixer-upper or just need to understand what’s involved with your existing roof that may be leaking, the subject can quickly get confusing for someone who isn’t familiar with all the variables. Domestic roof construction of roofs on residential homes can vary a lot, from the pitch to the materials used and how they are put together. Talking to a professional roofer about what you want and need for your particular home or business is an excellent idea. Before you do, you may first want to look at and become familiar with some of the different materials found on home roofs.
Common Types of Residential Roofing Materials Used in Arizona
- Ceramic or Concrete Tiles
- Different Roofing Shingles including Asphalt Shingles, Wood Shingles or other Composite Shingles to Mimic the Look of Cedar, Slate or other natural materials.
- Flat Roof using Bitumen, Built-Up or PVC materials (among others)
- Metal Roofing (because DC Roofing doesn't currently work with metal roof buildings, we won't be going over that option here).
Roof Tiles - Ceramic or Concrete
Benefits of Tile Roofing
The look of a tile roof is very appealing appearance to many people. Reminiscent of Mediterranean style homes, as far as roofing products go, they are very long lasting and stand up to the elements such as heat and salt water air, making them very popular along coastlines such as California and Florida as well as in the hot, dry areas of the Southwest, Another benefit for areas that get heavy rains in short bursts is their ability to drain a lot of water quickly, due to their shape.
The durability of tiles is another very attractive quality. Some manufacturers say you can expect tiles to last 50, 75 or even 100 years - time frames that are otherwise never talked about in the roofing industry. While the original tiles were typically made from a fired clay or terracotta, today many tiled roofs use concrete that has been tinted and molded into a variety of different shapes.
Looking for more good reasons to go with tile? Well, they are impervious to insects, rot and are non-flammable and don't require much of anything in the way of roof maintenance. That doesn’t mean you can’t still have some roofing problems due to underlying wood and other roofing materials, but for a great looking outer layer, tile is pretty hard to beat.
Something else to keep in mind with regard to tile roofs is that while the tiles themselves do perform a critical function of draining water quickly, they are not the real reason a roof will be water tight. They really act as the cosmetic overlay to the true waterproofing, which is the underlayment beneath the tiles. If water is starting to enter your home, it is this underlayment that will need to be replaced.
That being said, there are some downsides that you need to consider before committing to a tile roof.
Downsides of a Tile Roof
As far as roofing products go, tile roofing can be considerably more expensive than other material options. Compared to an asphalt roof, you may end up paying 2 or three times as much. Something to consider with these higher costs though are the long life that roof tiles offer, as outlined above.
Another difficulty regarding tiles is that they are heavy and therefore can be more difficult (and expensive) to install. Consider that the weight per square, (a square is industry term for 100 square feet of area), for tile can be around 850 to 950 pounds for clay vs concrete material respectively. For the same surface area, and asphalt roof will weigh in the neighborhood of 225 to 325 pounds.
As you can imagine, you can’t simply swap out your asphalt shingle tiles for concrete tiles because they look good. Making such a drastic change in your building would require consulting an engineer, which would definitely add to the entire cost of the roof.
Also, as mentioned, roofing with tile is more difficult. It takes an experienced, professional roofer to know how to properly lay the tiles to make sure there are no gaps that could allow moisture to get through and to make sure water drains properly. On top of that, while these tiles are durable, they are also brittle. That means if they’re not properly handled or carelessly walked on, they could easily break. Again, more expenses adding up.
A tile roof is not any kind of weekend DIY project for a bunch of buddies!
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingle roofing is the most commonly used residential roofing material in the United States, and for good reason. It’s affordable, easy to work with so virtually any roofer knows how to work with it. Plus, it’s easy enough for many homeowners to do DIY repairs and maintenance on it, and it has good durability.
Asphalt tiles, made from a fiberglass base and mineral and asphalt granules, usually have a 20 to 30 year warranty because the material is so good at flexing and contracting as the weather changes. As long as it’s properly installed and isn’t subjected to any unusual situations or conditions, there’s no reason an asphalt shingle roof won’t easily last 10 to 25 years or more.
Beyond just the functionality, another nice benefit is the fact that you can get asphalt shingles in a variety of different colors to match or create the look you want for your home.
While you may default to thinking of the black/grey asphalt shingle, they also come in a variety of shades of grey, brown and red. Some people mix in a variety of light and dark tones to create an aged, vintage look to their roofs.
With consumers becoming more environmentally aware, roofing material manufacturers have rolled out new, more green and energy efficient options, including in the realm of asphalt shingles. The new “cool roof” shingles are designed to absorb less heat from the sun, thereby transferring less of it into your home, reducing how hard your air conditioner has to work during those hot months.
When you consider the lower costs per square foot, plus all the other benefits that go along with it, it’s easy to see why asphalt tiles are such a popular option for home roofs.
Composite Roof Shingles
In Tucson and other parts of southern Arizona, some traditional roof materials that people may have been familiar with in other parts of the country (or world), aren't so applicable here. For example, cedar wood shingles or slate.
For people who long for a specific look and the unique corresponding colors that come with those kinds of materials, the good news is that today's composite material shingles can have you covered.
CertainTeed offers a luxury line of composites under the brand name Symphony. Made of polypropylene and calcium carbonate, CertainTeed’s well-regarded product is a ‘dead ringer’ for slate. Arguably, the lightweight and fade-resistant Symphony shingles improve upon the genuine article. Aside from being cheaper to buy and less costly to install, they are backed by a 50-year warranty and boast Energy Star certification.
DaVinci Roofscapes, LLC, offers perhaps the most comprehensive line of composite shake and slate-type products. Polymer-based, with top impact and fire ratings and a strong warranty, Davinci shingles come in multiple widths and colors, enabling homeowners to create blends with realistic textures and shade variations.
Flat Roofing Materials
In Arizona, there are a lot of homes with flat roofs, from ranch style homes built years ago to more modern, southwester style homes. With a flat roof, your options don’t include the materials mentioned above, but there are still options to consider.
Modern flat roofs use innovative materials that can provide better insulation than many people might think, and make them more energy efficient and cooler than older, traditional pitched roofs. EPDM roofing for example, (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) is very highly energy efficient. In studies at Oak Ridge National Laboratories it was found that temperatures can be reduced by 30 to 40 percent with EPDM. With such such significantly lower heat transfer into the home, this can be a smart choice for homeowners in warmer areas looking to reduce the demands on their air conditioners.
Built-Up Roof (BUR)
Built-up roofing, also referred to as BUR, is one of the most common types of roofing systems you’ll find on low slope roofs and is the business that keeps a lot of local Tucson roofers in business. It is made up of alternating layers of ‘built up’ reinforced fabric and asphalt or bitumen. Typically the top most layer is some kind of aggregate such as stone or small gravel. One of the reasons this is a preferred material for flat or low-slope rooftops is because it creates a continuous seal, as opposed to other materials such as shingles or tiles that are independent pieces. This is important because water will not drain off a flat roof as quickly as a more pitched roof, so having good waterproofing is critical.
Built up roofing tends to do better and be more popular in hot climates like we have here in Arizona. The average lifespan of a built-up roof is usually 15 to 30 years, but they can last even longer if properly maintained.
Membrane Roofing
Another option for flat roofs is membrane roofing - a material that used to be used much more in commercial roofing than for the residential customer, but is starting to be used more and more in residential roofing, and for good reason.
Compared to BUR roofing, a membrane roof makes it easier to create a complete, waterproof seal on the roof, providing years of hassle free experience. This is because it can be difficult to create really good binding between seams of BUR material. The newer materials used in membrane roofing allow for either a seamless installation, or else the seams are actually just as strong as the body, thereby eliminating most issues regarding leaks developing.
Furthermore, these membrane materials attach directly to the roof. The asphalt in BUR roofing actually just rests on top of the roof, and is not actually attached to it. The gravel or aggregate added to it is in part necessary to weight down the bitumen, as well as to protect it from UV rays from the sun, which tend to deteriorate asphalt. None of this is necessary with a membrane roof.
- There are a number of different materials used for membrane residential roofing systems, including:
- Neoprene (polychloroprene)
- EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer)
- PVC (polyvinyl chloride)
- Chlorinated polyethylene and chlorosulfonated polyethylene sheets
- Polymer-modified bitumens
Probably the best and most popular choice of these is EPDM, which is a synthetic material. While it is long lasting and can give you a largely trouble free roof, it should be noted that if any kind of repair does need to be done, you must use the proper materials. EPDM is not compatible at all with any kind of asphalt based coating. So make sure whoever is working on your membrane roof is well aware, informed and prepared to work with the materials at hand.
PVC (polyvinyl chloride) roofing is another popular roofing membrane material choice because it’s known for its durability and affordability. Since it can be prefabricated for your specific roof, it means less scrap and waste at the job site.
Another added benefit is that PVC is fire resistant. It is also solar heat reflective, helping to reduce the heat transmission of the sun into your home, creating less work for your air conditioner when it’s hot out and reducing your energy bill.
You can expect a membrane roof to last you between 20 to 35 years. You can read more about different membranes roofing options throughout our website.
Comprehensive Guide to Residential Roofing in Tucson
What is residential roofing and why is it important?
Residential roofing is all about the roofs on homes. In Tucson, Arizona, having a good roof is really important. The weather here can be very hot and sometimes rainy. A quality roofing system keeps your home safe from these elements. It helps your house stay strong and can even increase its value. Roofers in Tucson offer services like roof repairs and new installations to keep your home in great shape.
How do I choose the right roofing material for my home in Tucson?
Choosing the right roofing material for your Tucson home means thinking about several factors:
- Shingles: Asphalt shingles are affordable and easy to install.
- Tile: Tile roofs last a long time and handle heat well, perfect for hot climates.
- Metal: Metal roofs are durable and reflect heat, which can help with energy bills.
- Foam: Foam roofing offers excellent insulation and works well on flat roofs.
Your choice depends on your budget, the style of your home, and how well the material performs in Tucson's weather.
What are the most durable roofing options for Arizona's climate?
In Arizona, you need roofing that can handle tough conditions. Here are some of the best options:
- Tile Roofs: These last a long time and can handle high temperatures.
- Asphalt Shingles: Not as long-lasting as tile but still durable and cost-effective.
- Metal Roofing: Very durable and good at reflecting heat.
- Foam: Offers great insulation and durability if maintained well.
These materials are designed to withstand Arizona's intense heat and occasional storms, ensuring your roof lasts for many years.
Services Provided by DC Roofing of Arizona
Roof Installation Services
DC Roofing of Arizona offers professional roof installation services in Tucson. Whether you need a flat roof or another type, they’ve got you covered. Their experienced team ensures every project meets high standards, providing you with a reliable new roof.
Roof Repair and Maintenance
If you have leaks or damage, DC Roofing of Arizona can help. They offer repair and maintenance services in Tucson. From emergency repairs to regular inspections, their skilled team works promptly to keep your roof efficient and lasting longer.
Roof Inspection and Evaluation
DC Roofing of Arizona provides thorough roof inspections and evaluations for homeowners in Tucson. These detailed checks help find potential problems early, which is vital for insurance purposes and peace of mind. They ensure your roof’s structural integrity.
Quality and Affordability in Residential Roofing
What makes DC Roofing of Arizona stand out from other Tucson roofers?
DC Roofing of Arizona stands out due to their vast experience, excellent customer service, and commitment to quality. Being fully licensed and trusted, they ensure each project meets high expectations. This makes them a reliable choice for your roofing needs.
Are there warranties offered with your roofing services?
Yes, DC Roofing of Arizona offers warranties on all their roofing services. Whether it’s a roof replacement or repair, these warranties provide protection and peace of mind. This shows their commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.
How do your prices compare to other local roofing companies?
DC Roofing of Arizona offers competitive pricing. They provide affordable rates without compromising on quality. They also give free estimates, helping you understand costs and compare prices with other local companies.
Benefits of Professional Residential Roofing
Why should I hire a professional roofing contractor?
Hiring a professional roofing contractor in Tucson, AZ, is smart for several reasons. First, these experts are fully licensed and insured, protecting your property during the roofing process. They have the experience and training to provide high-quality services that meet industry standards. Plus, their communication and reliability build trust, which is key for any residential roofing project.
Increased Safety and Efficiency
Professional roofers in Arizona use advanced safety techniques and efficient roofing practices. They have state-of-the-art tools and equipment to ensure each task is done safely and efficiently. This minimizes risks and ensures a higher quality of work that lasts longer, keeping your home secure.
Long-Term Cost Savings
Using professional roofing services can save you money in the long run. Quality roofing materials and expert installation increase the lifespan of your roof. In Tucson's climate, a well-installed roof by experienced professionals can withstand harsh weather, saving you money on repairs and maintenance over time.
Roof Coating Solutions for Residential Homes
What are the benefits of roof coatings?
Roof coatings have many benefits for homeowners in Tucson, Arizona. These coatings reflect UV rays, reducing heat absorption and keeping homes cooler, enhancing energy efficiency. They also protect against water damage, extending the roof's lifespan. Durable and cost-effective, roof coatings are a smart, sustainable roofing solution.
How long does a roof coating last?
A well-applied roof coating in Tucson usually lasts between 10 to 20 years. The longevity depends on the type of coating used, environmental conditions, and regular maintenance. High-quality coatings keep their reflectivity and protective features, ensuring your roof stays in good condition for many years with minimal upkeep.
Addressing Common Residential Roofing Issues
What are the signs of roof damage or deterioration?
Look for visible signs like damaged shingles, water stains on ceilings, and sagging roof areas. These issues signal potential leaks and structural problems. Regular inspections can help spot and address these warning signs early, saving you money on extensive repairs.
How can I prevent roof leaks and water damage?
Preventative measures are key to maintaining a leak-free roof. Regular inspections, proper maintenance, and effective waterproofing solutions are essential. Ensure downspouts and drainage systems are clear and functional to avoid water buildup. Implementing these strategies helps protect your home from costly water-related issues.
Regular Roof Inspections
Scheduling regular roof inspections in Tucson, AZ, is crucial for spotting potential problems before they become serious. Reliable roofing experts conduct thorough evaluations, identifying signs of wear and tear that need attention. Proactive inspections extend your roof’s life and enhance overall home safety.
Importance of Proper Drainage Systems
Proper drainage systems are vital for preventing water damage to your roof. Keeping gutters and downspouts well-maintained and free from blockages ensures efficient water removal. These systems are essential for flood prevention and protecting your home's roofing structure.
Advanced Roofing Options
What are advanced roofing technologies available today?
Advanced roofing technologies offer lots of benefits, especially for those who want sustainable and energy-efficient options. In Arizona, where temperatures can be extreme, new roofing systems can improve a building's performance.
Green Roofing: This eco-friendly option uses plants over a waterproof layer. It helps with insulation and reduces rainwater runoff. Green roofs keep indoor spaces cooler and improve air quality.
Cool Roofs: These roofs use reflective materials to bounce back sunlight and absorb less heat. This results in cooler building interiors and lower energy bills, which is great for hot places like Arizona.
Solar Roofs: Solar roofing includes photovoltaic panels in the roofing material. It provides protection and generates renewable energy, cutting down on energy costs from traditional sources.
Synthetic Roofing Materials: Modern synthetic options like recycled rubber or plastic shingles offer durability and environmental benefits. They often look like traditional roofing but perform better.
Are energy-efficient roofing options worth the investment?
Investing in energy-efficient roofing options can pay off, especially in Tucson, Arizona, where energy costs are high due to the frequent use of air conditioning. Energy-efficient roofs offer savings and help the environment.
Cost Savings: These roofing systems reduce the need for air conditioning, lowering energy bills. Over time, these savings can balance out the initial cost of installation.
Increased Property Value: Homes with energy-efficient features attract buyers. Investing in such a roof can boost your property's resale value.
Environmental Impact: Sustainable roofing materials help reduce your carbon footprint. By using less energy, these roofs contribute to a healthier planet.
Long-Term Benefits: Energy-efficient roofs usually last longer and need less maintenance. They offer better durability against tough weather, providing more protection for your home.
Customer Testimonials and Reviews
What do other customers say about DC Roofing of Arizona’s services?
DC Roofing of Arizona gets great feedback from happy customers in Tucson and nearby areas. Clients praise the company's professionalism, work quality, and customer service.
John D., Tucson: "DC Roofing transformed our old roof into an energy-efficient system. The team was professional, timely, and knowledgeable."
Maria L., Marana: "I'm very happy with the solar roofing they provided. Our energy bills have dropped, and the roof looks great."
How can I leave a review for your services?
Leaving a review for DC Roofing of Arizona is easy and appreciated. You can share your thoughts through several channels:
- Google Reviews: Visit the Google business listing for DC Roofing of Arizona and click "Write a Review."
- Yelp: Go to the Yelp page for DC Roofing and click "Write a Review."
- Website Contact Form: Use the contact form on the official website to leave a detailed testimonial.
Your feedback helps DC Roofing maintain high standards and continue offering excellent roofing solutions.
Contact DC Roofing of Arizona
How can I schedule a free estimate for my roofing project?
Scheduling a free estimate with DC Roofing of Arizona is simple. Reach out through any of these methods:
- Phone: Call (520) 979-9095 to speak with a representative.
- Email: Send an inquiry to [email protected] with your project details.
- Website Contact Form: Fill out the online form on their website to request a free estimate.
What are the best ways to reach DC Roofing of Arizona?
For quick communication, you can contact DC Roofing of Arizona through various methods:
Phone: Call the customer service line at (555) 123-4567 for immediate help.
Email: Send your questions to [email protected] for a fast response.
Website Contact Form: Use the online form to send inquiries or request services. Visit www.dcroofingaz.com/contact to access the form.
These methods ensure you can easily get in touch with the team for any questions or service requests.
Insights
- Our residential roofing services include roof replacement and maintenance, ensuring your home's safety and durability.
- We are experienced residential roofing contractors specializing in shingle roofs, using quality asphalt shingles and roof tiles.
- We offer comprehensive roofing for residential properties, including waterproofing, leak repair, and insulation to improve energy efficiency.
- Our services cover various roofing materials such as composite and metal roofing, designed to withstand heat resistance and harsh weather conditions.
- We work with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and have positive reviews on Yelp, showing our commitment to customer satisfaction and trust.
- Our team handles projects involving solar panel installations, ensuring they integrate well with existing roofing systems.
- We provide affordable pricing and free estimates, helping homeowners plan their roofing investments.
- Our services include gutter and downspout installation, essential for preventing water damage during heavy rains and hailstorms.
- We prioritize roofing safety and durability, offering solutions like UV-ray protection and high-quality attic insulation.
- Our expertise extends to remodeling and renovation projects, improving your home's curb appeal and structural integrity.
- Trust us for reliable roofing options, including sustainable and eco-friendly choices, backed by warranties and exceptional customer service.
Basic Residential Roofing Components
hi everyone in this video we're going to be talking about basic roof components the idea of this video is for you to learn what elements are needed and have a visual understanding of each element that gets used by a roofing company first we're going to be talking about the asphalt roof shingles itself it is the most common roofing product available it is the most cost efficient also comes in different profiles and also for different weather conditions let's say that your house is in a very high wind area there's shingles for that just specifically for wind problematic areas also if your area is susceptible to hail storms there there's also a shingle that is hail resistant so they're also easier to locate leaks and deficiencies they last roughly between 20 and 25 years just depending on the type of roof ventilation where the house is located and and stuff like that also the cost is a third of a cedar or rubbery or rubber roofing system also they come in a lot of colors so it can blend pretty good to any color scheme of a home now the insurance starters and rich caps these are complimentary parts of a properly installed roofing system starters serve as the first course of shingle helps the first shingle not blow off by the wind you see the image on the right hand side that is the starter and you see those little thar lines those help the first shingle adhere properly and that way it doesn't blow off the ridge caps serve as a finish type on the top of the slopes for a smooth transition it looks good and keeps the water out there's also high profile Ridge caps which make the house have a little bit more depth in the roofing system you will be able to see the the lines of the hips and the ridges pretty pretty easily and it's just for looks oh it does look better too a little bit more expensive then we have the underlay the underlay is one of the key components of a properly install roofing shingle it is a secondary protective layer of a the underlay we always use underlay a synthetic underlay because it has the following benefits it is 12 times stronger as a traditional petroleum-based underlay it is inert to mold growth it does not absorb water or wrinkle it is you we protect resistant and it is slip resistant so you know before they used to use petroleum-based ones which they would absorb water they would tear easy easier than the traditional that then the monolithic ones that are typically used so if somebody is going to do your roof just make sure this is an aesthetic underlay and that they do install the underlay not everybody does it and it's just a good review practice next is the the roof fence there's two fundamental benefits of a effect of an effective roofing ventilation system the first one is a cooler attic in the summer which will help the shingles last longer just because they don't overheat and the other fundamental benefit is a dry attic in winter this helps avoid at a condensation if you don't know what attic condensation is we created in another video talking about this common issue that we have here in Calgary just due to our Chinooks freeze files and and stuff like that but basically at a condensation is moisture gathering in your attic space when it's super cold outside and it's warm in your house Moisture collection your attic it freezes and then if you don't have proper ventilation proper insulation that that moisture will start to melt during saw cycles and it will appear that you have roof leaks and they'll appear on the ceiling around the the washroom fans and stuff like that so yeah these two benefits of having the cooler attic and the dry attic both result in energy savings greater home greater homeowner comfort and higher integrity of the house now we're going to be talking about the pipe jack the pipe jack is a preformed flange that is placed around the plumbing stack so that black PVC that you see on the image is actually part of the plumbing system and it's meant to be open that way and the pipe jack is just a flashing that helps the pipe transition from the inside of the house to the exterior and you know they can't they come like that just pre-made they come to size there's different sizes and that basically they all come in in plastic for shingles and stuff so next we have the goose neck the goose neck is a is basically a venting another roof vent that is used to transition from the from the flex pipes that go from a washroom fan or a kitchen fan or another could be from a dryer it also helps for attic venting so basically you know you tie in the Flex pipes from those fans into on the bottom of the roof deck and this is where they come it comes out and they have two presentations one in metal and the other one in plastic and that's their basic function now the metal Valley well the valley on a roof is one of the most vulnerable areas of your roofing system if it's not properly protected a valley can channel water directly into your house causing interior damage installing a sheet metal as in the image will help add extra protection to this critical area of your roofing search and we'll ensure that you know you have no issues in the valley also it helps the shingles not deteriorate in this area since the water collects from the two slopes into that valley the shingles tend to deteriorate faster in that area and it's also a critical part of your roof so you've got to make sure that you are extra protected in that in that area now the drip edge the drip edge I've seen in the image is um it's a metal strip that goes just below the on the roof line just below the shingles and it helps it it helps the water get into the gutter easier it also helps prevent the the roof deck just under the shingle to deteriorate or to curl over time because it does get wet if you don't have that drip edge installed finally we have the ice and water protection the ice and water protection is the self adhesive resilient non-woven glass fiber mat which serves to waterproof under the shingles preventing water penetration due to ice dams and driven wind driven rain rights it also is used to protect critical areas such as skylights chimneys and valleys so this is a pretty sticky product and it is and also it's used if you have a very low pitched roof so it's the slope of the roof is very minimum we recommend installing it on the whole house that way if you have any ice damming or any any anything like that you make sure that that your whole roof is protected and also it's recommended by the manufacturer to install it on the entire roof to get that warranty that they provide. Many people researching a new roof ask about whether they should be concerned about choosing a hot roof, a warm roof, or a cold roof and what the differences are. The different types of roof are created simply by applying the layers of the roof in a different order. Namely the insulation layers. In a cold roof, the insulation is applied between the rafters, but in a warm roof, the insulation is applied on top of the existing roof surface. The term “hot roof” is something of a misnomer, as the attic space will only be a few degrees warmer than in a traditional roof. a Hot Roof is a system most likely to be found in newly built homes.
We gladly service the entire, greater Tucson area, including Oro Valley, Marana, Saddlebrooke, Green Valley and Vail, AZ. Call DC Roofing today! (520) 979-9095