The roof is largely responsible for protecting the exterior of your home and keeping the interior safe from harsh weather elements such as precipitation and extreme heat. There are many roof covering materials available on the market today. The classically American choice is definitely asphalt shingles. Most any type of asphalt-based residential roofing system has five main components. These components, although not specific to any brand, are typically required by shingle manufacturers to obtain their full manufacturer’s warranty.
1. Asphalt Shingles: An asphalt shingle is a type of roof covering that uses asphalt substance for waterproofing effect. The material has varying qualities which help your exterior survive discoloration and damage from wind, fire, or hail. Asphalt shingles come in many shapes and textures and are typically multi-colored to offer visual variation.
2. Underlayment: The underlayment acts as the second barrier against weather elements. It is installed directly on the deck which is usually made from plywood. It is either a water-resistant or waterproof roofing material.
3. Ice or Water Barrier: Commonly known as roof flashing, the ice or water barrier of an asphalt shingle roof protects vulnerable parts of a roof such as valleys and chimneys. These areas in the roof are where water usually flows and collects.
4. Starter Strip or Sealant: Starter strip products are essential for the proper installation of your asphalt shingles. The sealant provides protection against risks of shingle blow-offs or water penetration.
5. Hig and Ridge Caps: These are the last components of your roof. They complement the aesthetic appearance of your asphalt shingles and offer a finishing touch to your exterior. Amateur roof repair contractors will typically skip this part to save a few bucks, but by doing so can potentially void your warranty, so be careful.
Thinking of giving your exterior home an uplift? Roofer Chicks® is here to assist you. We provide a wide range of professional exterior services, such as storm damage repair and gutter installation, to residential and commercial properties. Call us today at (830) 627-7663 or fill out our convenient contact form here to get started with a no-obligation consultation. We serve homeowners in and around New Braunfels, TX.