ROOFING GUIDE

Learn before you build, repair or replace.

Simple explanations of the roofing details property owners should understand before making expensive decisions.

MATERIALS

Know the specification.

A roofing sheet specification should clearly communicate its thickness/gauge, coating and design. Never rely on a label alone when the actual specification is unclear.

STRUCTURE

The roof beneath the sheets matters.

Wood quality, purlin alignment, uniform slope, adequate bracing, roof pitch and overall structural integrity all contribute to a properly prepared roof.

INSTALLATION

Good workmanship should be visible.

Look for straight eaves, aligned ridge caps, even edges, properly laid sheets, well-locked lappings, adequate fastening and clean handling.

LEAKAGES

A leak is a symptom, not automatically a replacement notice.

Loose or failed fasteners, damaged sheets, faulty lappings, poor flashing, failed sealant and structural problems can all contribute to leakage. Proper assessment should determine the cause.

MAINTENANCE

Don't wait for the leak.

Periodic checks should include failed nails, flashing joints, gutters and valleys, loose fastening and woodwork condition.

INSULATION

Insulation depends on the situation.

It may help manage retained heat, condensation-related dampness and rainfall noise in suitable roof structures. A proper recommendation depends on the building and roof configuration.