Sheathing: Leave it to Experienced Richmond Roofers

Last week we discussed the basics of roof underlayment, so now we’d like to take a look at what’s UNDER that underlayment. At the base of every roof system is sheathing, also referred to as decking. This layer lies between the primary structural components of your home (the trusses and joints) and the weatherproofing materials of your roof system.

Because it’s the component that provides the main protection and insulation of a home, roof sheathing should only be installed by professional Richmond roofers. Here are some of the mistakes that have been made by inexperienced roofers:

Improper fastening of sheathing, which can lead to collapse in high winds.
Upside-down installation of sheathing.
Installation that’s not perpendicular to roof rafters, as required.
Panels that don’t meet in the center of the truss/rafter.

The most common types of sheathing material are plywood sheets and a wood product called oriented strand board (OSB). Both provide quick installation, while plywood sheathing offers a sturdy nailing base at a higher cost. Some manufacturers recommend plywood due to the fact that OSB will swell when exposed to rain or significant moisture.

Recycled paperboard, made from recycled newspapers, can also be used as roof decking. In addition to being very environmentally-friendly, paperboard also offers a greater insulative value than wood and can reduce noise. It is generally less expensive than wood-based sheathings.

For the best advice on which roof sheathing material to install in your BC roof, contact Crown Roofing LTD . We provide complete roof inspections and free estimates for roof replacement or roof repair in Richmond. Our professional and reliable services are only a phone call away!

Underlayment: The Foundation of BC Roofing

Author: Jason Bradley

This week we’re taking a closer look at the basics of roof underlayment, how it functions and various types. Traditional shingles allow for lots of gaps or seams in a roof covering, which means there must be a secondary layer of protection between the roofing material and the structure of your home. This is especially important in rainy climates like ours! Underlayment performs this function, repelling water that penetrates the top layer of shingles.

All types of BC roofing underlayment are manufactured in roll form. The most common type of underlayment is roofing felt, AKA tar paper or “builder’s felt,” made by injecting paper or a fibrous material with a tar/asphalt mixture. If green building is one of your priorities, paper-based asphalt felt is an organic option, though it does tend to buckle or wrinkle under shingles if it gets wet or moist, causing an unattractive overall appearance.

Advances in technology and materials have resulted in different features, such as synthetic underlayments made from polypropylene, polyester or fiberglass fabric. The benefits of these synthetics include a lighter weight than felt, and a non-slip surface that protects roofers from harm. In addition, synthetics are more durable than felt when exposed to wind, rain and run for long periods, and can withstand the elements for up to six months. In the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, New Orleans roofing contractors used synthetic underlayments as a temporary roofing solution for this reason. “Breathable” roof underlayments allow water vapor to escape from the attic, preventing mold growth and rot on the wood structure.

While installation is relatively simple, roofing underlayment should only be installed by professional Vancouver roofing contractors who understand the weather demands of the region and can ensure proper water management techniques are employed. The right underlayment for your roof will keep moisture, cold and heat out, lengthening the life of your British Columbia roofing and preventing costly repairs down the road.

British Columbia Roofing Contractors: Choose Licensed, Insured Professionals for Your Roofing Project

Author: Jason Bradley

We’ve all heard the horror stories surrounding British Columbia roofing projects gone wrong. Whether it’s a neighbor who had a bad experience, or a family member who was disappointed in the quality of work on his home, you want to be sure you avoid these poor results by choosing professional British Columbia roofing contractors who have proven themselves to be trustworthy and excellent at their craft.

After all, this is your home we are talking about, so you need to be able to have confidence in the contractors—from the quality of materials used to the customer service provided. A great place to start in your search for dependable, professional roofers is by doing a little research. A great business card or a flashy website shouldn’t be enough to earn your trust. Instead, dig a little deeper to ensure the contractors have been in business for several years and have the credentials to prove they know what they are doing, and can do the job expertly.

Why British Columbia Roofing Certifications & Credentials Matter

Be on the lookout for a fully-licensed and insured British Columbia roofing company familiar with the local permitting process. The company’s insurance must include liability and workers’ compensation.

In addition, you want a company that is factory-certified by the manufactures whose products they install. This certification provides peace of mind, because you can trust your roof will be properly installed and all manufacturer warranties will be in full-effect for your new roof.

Why Customer Service & Communication Matter

It’s not a good feeling to be out of the loop when it comes to your home’s roofing project. You want to choose a British Columbia roofing company who values you as a customer and is willing to take the time to understand your concerns, answer questions and meet your roofing needs.

The right company will provide daily project updates to keep you current on what is going on with your roof. Ideally, the company will have a supervisor on site to answer your questions. You will find these services are invaluable and can help you to know you have made the right choice in a roofing contractor.

Whether you are seeking a roofing contractor in Richmond, Vancouver, Burnaby or in the surrounding British Columbia area, it is wise to pause before you make the final choice and consider these factors. Doing so will help you to avoid problems down the road and increase your chance for finding the best of the best in British Columbia roofing contractors.

Learn more about professional British Columbia roofing contractors, Richmond roofers and best practices for British Columbia roofing companies at https://www.crownroofingltd.com/

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