Metal Roofing Types: Complete Guide to Materials & Styles Quick Answer: Metal roofing comes in five main materials: steel (most common, $7-12/sq ft), aluminum (coastal-friendly, $8-14/sq ft), copper (premium, $15-25/sq ft), zinc (self-healing, $13-22/sq ft), and tin (historic, $12-25/sq ft). Popular styles include standing seam (concealed fasteners), corrugated panels (economical), metal shingles (traditional look), and…
Hip Roofs: Complete Guide to Design, Construction & Benefits Quick Answer: A hip roof is a roofing design where all four sides slope downward from the peak to the walls, creating no vertical gable ends. Unlike gable roofs with two slopes, hip roofs feature four sloping planes that meet at a ridge or single peak….
Gable Roofs: Complete Guide to Design, Construction & Costs Quick Answer: A gable roof is a triangular-shaped roof formed by two sloping sides that meet at a central ridge, creating a peaked appearance. This classic roof style, recognizable by its inverted “V” shape, is the most common residential roofing design in North America due to…
Rubber Roofing: Complete Guide to EPDM Roofing Systems Quick Answer: Rubber roofing, primarily EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer), is a durable single-ply roofing membrane made from synthetic rubber. Known for its exceptional weather resistance, flexibility, and longevity of 25-50 years, rubber roofing is ideal for flat and low-slope roofs. Available in black or white, it…
TPO Roofing: Complete Guide to Thermoplastic Polyolefin Roofing Systems Quick Answer: TPO (Thermoplastic Polyolefin) roofing is a single-ply membrane roofing system primarily used on flat and low-slope commercial roofs. Made from a blend of polypropylene and ethylene-propylene rubber, TPO offers excellent energy efficiency, durability, and cost-effectiveness. With heat-welded seams, UV resistance, and typical lifespans of…
Rafters vs Joists: Key Differences in Structural Framing Quick Answer: The main difference between rafters and joists lies in their function and location. Rafters are sloped structural members that support the roof, running from the ridge to the wall plate at an angle. Joists are horizontal structural members that support floors and ceilings, running parallel…
How to Get Insurance to Pay for Roof Replacement: Complete Guide Quick Answer: To get insurance to pay for roof replacement, you need to: document damage thoroughly, file your claim promptly, meet with the adjuster, get multiple estimates, and understand your policy coverage. Success depends on having legitimate covered damage (like storm damage), proper documentation,…
Roof Flashing Types: Complete Guide to Materials & Installation Roof Flashing Types: The Complete Guide to Protecting Your Roof Quick Answer: Roof flashing is thin metal material installed at roof intersections, transitions, and penetrations to prevent water infiltration. The main types include step flashing (for walls), valley flashing (where roof planes meet), drip edge (along…
What Is a Square in Roofing? Complete Guide Quick Answer: A roofing square is a unit of measurement used in the roofing industry that equals 100 square feet of roof area. When contractors say a roof is “20 squares,” they mean it has 2,000 square feet of surface area. This standardized measurement simplifies material ordering,…
Understanding the types of roof vents available and how they affect your home’s attic ventilation is essential, whether you’re a homeowner, property manager, or buying a new house. Roof vents help regulate temperature, reduce moisture buildup, and extend your roof’s life. In this guide, you’ll learn what they do, the main vent categories, and how to choose…