Are you considering a career in the roofing industry? Then, you should familiarize yourself with the various roofing materials and their characteristics. Composition roofs are one of the most common roofing materials. In this guide, we’ll delve into what is a composition roof, its benefits, the installation process, and why they’re a popular choice among homeowners. Let’s get started.
What is a Composition Roof?
A composition roof, known as an asphalt shingle roof, is made of asphalt, fiberglass, and mineral granules. Together, these materials protect from the elements and enhance the aesthetic value of a home. The color, style, and texture of composition roofs make them a versatile choice for homeowners wanting both durability and design flexibility.
Benefits of Composition Roofs
Here are a few benefits you can expect from a composition roof.
Affordability
One of the primary advantages of composition roofs is their affordability. Compared to other roofing materials like metal or tile, composition shingles are more budget-friendly, making them an attractive option for homeowners on a tight budget.
Durability
Despite their lower cost, composition roofs are highly durable and can withstand various weather conditions, including rain, wind, and hail. Additionally, many composition shingles come with 20 to 50-year warranties, providing homeowners with peace of mind and long-term protection.
Easy Installation
Another benefit of composition roofs is their ease of installation. Roofing contractors prefer composition shingles because they’re lightweight and can be installed quickly, reducing labor costs.
Aesthetic Appeal
Composition shingles are available in various colors and styles, allowing homeowners to choose the option that best complements their home’s architecture and enhances its curb appeal. Whether you prefer the look of traditional asphalt shingles or want to mimic the appearance of slate or wood shakes, there’s a composition roof style to suit every taste.
Energy Efficiency
Some composition shingles are designed with energy-efficient features, such as reflective coatings or cool roof technology, which help reduce heat absorption and lower energy bills. By installing a composition roof with these features, homeowners can improve the energy efficiency of their homes and reduce their environmental footprint.
How To Install Composition Roofs
Composition roofing requires careful planning, attention to detail, and adherence to industry best practices. The following is a step-by-step installation guide:
Preparation
Before beginning any work, the existing roof should be thoroughly inspected for signs of damage or deterioration. Any issues, such as rotting wood or damaged shingles, should be addressed and repaired before proceeding.
Once the roof has been inspected and prepared, a waterproof underlayment is installed over the roof deck. This underlayment serves as an additional layer of protection against water infiltration and helps prolong the roof’s life.
Proper ventilation is crucial for maintaining the longevity of a composition roof. Ventilation ensures that hot air and moisture can escape from the attic space, preventing moisture buildup and reducing the risk of mold and mildew growth.
Shingle Installation
A starter strip is installed along the roof’s eaves to provide a secure base for the first row of shingles. The starter strip helps prevent wind uplift and ensures a uniform appearance along the roof’s edge.
The composition shingles are installed starting from the bottom of the roof and working upward in overlapping rows. Each shingle is nailed securely in place, following the manufacturer’s guidelines for placement and spacing.
Flashing is installed around roof penetrations, such as vents, chimneys, and skylights, to prevent water infiltration in these vulnerable areas. Flashing is typically made from metal or waterproof membranes and is carefully integrated with the shingles to create a watertight seal.
In areas where two roof planes meet, such as valleys, metal flashing is installed to channel water away from the roof and prevent leaks. The flashing is installed beneath the shingles and overlapped to ensure proper water flow.
Once the main field of shingles has been installed, ridge caps are placed along the peaks and ridges of the roof. Ridge caps provide additional protection and a finished appearance to the roof while also helping to prevent wind-driven rain from entering the attic space.
Finishing Touches
After all the shingles have been installed, the edges of the roof are trimmed to create a clean, uniform appearance. Any excess shingle overhang is cut away, and unique trim pieces may be installed along the roof edges for added protection.
Once the installation is complete, all exposed nail heads are sealed with roofing cement to prevent water penetration and rusting. Any gaps or seams in the flashing are also closed to ensure a watertight seal.
Finally, the job site is thoroughly cleaned, and debris or leftover materials are removed from the roof and surrounding area. Proper cleanup is essential for maintaining a professional appearance and ensuring customer satisfaction.
Post-Installation Inspection
After the installation, a final inspection is conducted to ensure the roof is installed according to industry standards and manufacturer guidelines. Any issues or deficiencies are addressed and corrected before the job is completed.
Follow these steps and pay attention to detail during installation to ensure composition roofs provide long-lasting protection for clients’ homes.
Read More: What Is A TPO Roof
Conclusion
Composition roofs are popular among homeowners because of their affordability, durability, ease of installation, aesthetic appeal, and energy efficiency. Knowing the characteristics and benefits of composition roofs will equip you with the knowledge and skills you need to succeed. If you’re installing new roofs or repairing existing ones, composition shingles offer a versatile and reliable solution.
Ready to embark on your journey in the roofing industry? A solid understanding of composition roofs will help you meet homeowners’ needs and support your roofing business’s success.
