Inspecting the Roof

Regular maintenance is imperative when it comes to making sure a residential roof system is performing as it should, according to the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA).

All too often, problems are found after leaking or other serious damage is witnessed, NRCA said. The association points to biannual inspections as a way to uncover cracked, warped, or missing shingles; loose seams and deteriorated flashings; excessive surface granules accumulating in the gutters or downspouts; and other visible signs of problems. Indoors, NRCA said inspectors should look for cracked paint, discolored plasterboard, and peeling wallpaper as signs of damaged roof areas.

“A warranty does not replace the need for regular inspections,” said Mark S. Graham, vice president of technical services for the NRCA. “Get on and walk the roof; one can never take too many photos, and be safe. A roof cannot be truly inspected from the ground or a ladder.”

And if there’s one thing Graham would like to share with home inspectors, he said that’s not to estimate remaining service life.

Graham said more homeowners seem to be prioritizing roof appearance and curb appeal these days, as they seek high-end architectural shingles, metal products, and specialty products. Thousands of roofing products exist on the market, and many look similar, but it’s important for inspectors to stay in-the-know about what’s being used.

Below are some of the most popular offerings, according to NRCA. You can find more roofing resources and greater detail at nrca.net.

ASPHALT SHINGLES

NRCA reports that asphalt shingles are the most common roofing material in the US steep-slope roofing market and can be reinforced with organic
or fiberglass materials.

Their resistances are categorized by Class A, B, or C. Class A signifies the most fire-resistant; Classes B and C denote less fire resistance. Generally, most fiberglass shingles have Class A fire ratings, and most organic shingles have Class C ratings.

Asphalt shingle products are available in laminated (architectural) grades that offer a textured appearance. Copper-coated granules also can be applied to asphalt shingle products to protect against algae attack—a common problem in warm, humid parts of the US. You can get asphalt shingles in a number of colors, too.

NRCA recommends use of shingles that comply with ASTM D3462, “Standard Specification for Asphalt Shingles Made from Glass Felt and Surfaced with Mineral Granules.” Not all asphalt shingles comply with this standard. If a shingle complies, it typically will be noted in the manufacturer’s product literature and on the package wrapper.

WOOD SHAKES AND SHINGLES

Wood shakes and shingles are made from cedar, redwood, Southern pine, and other woods, and their natural look is popular in California, the Northwest, and parts of the Midwest, NRCA said.

Wood shingles are machine-sawn; shakes are handmade, and their surfaces are rough.

Some local building codes limit the use of wood shingles and shakes because of concerns about fire resistance. Many wood shingles and shakes have Class C fire ratings or no ratings at all. However, Class A fire ratings are an option for certain wood shingle products that incorporate a factory-applied, fire-resistant treatment.

TILE

Clay or concrete tile is a durable roofing material with a long history. Mission and Spanish-style, round-topped tiles are popular in the Southwest and Florida, and flat styles are also available to create French and English looks. Tile is beloved by many in part for its plentiful color and finish options.
One thing to note, NRCA said, is that tile is heavy, so those who replace another type of roof covering with tile need to verify that the home can support the added load.

SLATE

Slate is available in different colors and grades depending on its origin. NRCA said slate is “virtually indestructible,” and it’s more expensive than other roofing materials. Many older homes, especially those in the Northeast, have been protected
by this long-lasting roofing material for a long
time. Applying slate does require special skill
and experience.

METAL

Residential metal roofing is one of the fastest-growing segments of home improvement, according to NRCA. Metal roofing is available as panels and shingles, with many possible panel shapes and configurations. Metal shingles are typically intended to simulate traditional roof coverings like wood shakes, shingles, and tile.

Metal roofing can be counted on to have a long life, NRCA said, while metal shingles are relatively lightweight and have a greater resistance to adverse weather while having aesthetic benefits. Some have Class A fire ratings—the highest
rating available.

SOLAR

Solar roofing materials, or photovoltaic (PV) roofing materials, are also growing in popularity
as homeowners look to decrease dependence on local electricity grids and take advantage of
tax credits. Solar roofing material can come in the form of shingles, tiles, or panels, and installation requires familiarity with electrical systems, according to NRCA.

SYNTHETIC ROOFING MATERIALS

Synthetic roofing materials simulate various traditional roof coverings like slate and wood shingles and shakes, but they don’t necessarily
have the same properties, according to NRCA.
As such, they should be researched thoroughly to make sure they meet a project’s needs.

ART: Adobe/SashaMagic