A roofer, roofing contractor, or roofing contractor is someone that specializes in repairing roofs. Roofers repair, replace, or install the roofs of commercial buildings, utilizing a wide variety of roofing materials, such as metal and shingles, and bitumen. Roofing is the process of adding another protective layer above the earth or on top of the earth’s crust. The roofing layers are made of a material that is then shaped to form the final roofing structure. In the United States, most residential roofs are made of asphalt shingles. Commercial roofs differ somewhat in that they may be made of slate, metal, gypsum, or wood.
When a new roof is to be installed, the roofing contractor will determine what type of roofing system will be most effective at repairing the roof and protecting the building. Once this decision is made, the roofing contractor will then work with the homeowner to choose the best roofing system for their particular situation. Two of the most popular roofing systems are asphalt and slate. The asphalt shingles are the most traditional; they come in a wide variety of colors and are made of clay, slate, or wood chips.
One of the most important factors in choosing an asphalt shingle is the longevity of the shingle. Asphalt roofs are known for lasting long, which is why many homeowners prefer them for their roofing replacement. Also, asphalt shingles are quite inexpensive compared to other types of roofs and are also considered to be one of the least invasive forms of roofing systems. However, there are a few disadvantages to installing asphalt shingles on your home. First, they can be easily punctured by weather, wind, or other types of debris; they are also fire prone, as the material they are made of can easily catch fire.
If your home is old and you have already replaced your original roof with one made from clay, you may want to reconsider asphalt shingles. These shingles can crack after a few years, which is why they aren’t the most cost-effective option for a new roof. Also, asphalt shingles are not flexible; therefore, if the weather turns severe, the roofers cannot perform repairs without having to retreat. Lastly, clay shingles also have a natural tendency to mold, mildew, and decay, making them an ineffective choice for those who live in areas that are plagued by extreme weather.
If you live in an area that experiences a lot of rain and snow, you will likely want to choose a slate for your roof replacement project. This type of roofing contractor often installs metal roofing systems as well. Unlike asphalt shingles, slate roofing does not crack easily, rot easily, or develop holes and mildew. Slate roofs also resist fire damage and last a long time without needing to be replaced. Plus, when installed professionally, they can look just like real wood.
As a rule of thumb, it is best to hire a roofing contractor with at least five years of experience. Also, before choosing a contractor, make sure that you do your research. Check for reviews online and ask friends and family members for recommendations. Please find out how long the contractor has been in business and check their background as well. If you are working with a remodeling contractor, make sure that you are comfortable with him or her and feel confident about the work that will be done on your home.