Roofing materials
Roofing Materials - Weatherproofing overview
When it comes to weatherproofing, the most important part of a roofing system is the topmost layer. This is the visible surface we see when looking at the roof of a building, which is designed to protect the structure from the elements. It’s not only protection that’s important but also the appearance of such materials, as there’s nothing worse than having to look at an ugly roof!
We’ve put together five of the most popular roofing materials used that are both good for weatherproofing but also aesthetically pleasing (when done right).
Clay Tile
Clay tiles were most popular before the widespread use of slate. There are the earlier half round (split pipe efectively) and later flatter interlocking types. The most popular colour is the traditional red terra cotta.
Rows overlap, and the top is waterproofed with ridge tiles.
Concrete Tile
Popular & widespread, these are much cheaper than clay or slate. Available in many colour variants. Like any tile they have a minimum slope requirement. Used below this the top surface degrades faster due to freze-thaw cycles, exposing bare concrete covered with biofilm.
Sometimes concrete tiles have been fitted to originally slated roofs, which were never designed to carry the greater weight. Visibly sagging roofs are a warning flag, failing timber is another cause.
Thatch
This attractive alternative to solid roofing has become a symbol of countryside cottages not only in the UK but throughout many other countries as well such as Denmark. It’s the process of layering plant stalks on top of each other to create a weatherproof roof, helping to keep water out and heat in. It’s a very old method of roofing and also convenient if you’re constructing homes in countries where lack of resource or funds may limit the use of hard roofing. The plants used can include rushes, reed and straw, which are then carefully and skillfully installed using age old techniques with excellent results. Thatch can be easily incorporated into new builds, adding a traditional charm that tile just can’t accomplish.
Membrane Roofing
Membrane roofing or felt is mainly used for flat roofs & sheds. It's very light compared to clay tiles or slate, and on flat roofs is sealed across the surface keeping water out. It’s a popular choice for large commercial buildings with flat roofs and also domestic premises. Many older terraced homes have a kitchen or bathroom at the rear with a flat membrane roof. New builds also incorporate it on garages and parts of the home that have only one level.
There are various types of membrane materials from the cheapest bitumen & rag to modified bitumen with synthetic fibre, EPDM synthetic rubber etc.
Felt is the shortest lived of domestic roofing options, and failure tends to rot the supporting timber deck. It's easily holed by walking on it. Never tread on felt topped with stones.
Slate
Slate tiles are completely flat as they are split from blocks of quarried slate. Slate can be expensive. It's natural, fireproof and very low maintenance, it naturally puts up with the elements. Good quality slate has a very long life span, cheap types not so much. It's attractive to look at. It is fragile, load needs to be spread when climbing on the roof. Installion is not complex, but bodgers have made mistakes like fitting narrow slates where there is sideways water movement.
Old slate roofs can appear ok to the nonexpert, yet require a lot of work or complete replacement. Fake slates don't last as well and may contain asbestos.
Asphalt Shingle
While we were busy finishing our homes with clay tiles, thatch and slate in the early 20th century, our American friends across the pond were busy inventing a cheaper means to protect their homes. This was eventually invented in the form of Asphalt Shingle, which was a success due to its low production cost. Creation involves one of two bases, one fiberglass and one organic. A number of ingredients are then added to the mix giving each shingle protection from damaging UV light and special treatment, so they don’t stick together. These materials can include ceramic granules and vitrified brick, which also adds to the colour and once attached not only perform well against moisture and sunlight but also very strong winds.
This article was written by: our friends at www.topseal.co.uk