Your roof is your property’s main defense against water infiltration, which can cause significant damage to your exterior and interior. By installing a water-shedding or water-resistant roof you can further increase your building or home’s protection against water damage.
Learn the difference between these two kinds of roofs from a leading siding and roofing contractor.
Water-Resistant Roofs
Waterproofing may be necessary if you have a low slope roof or your system has various gables and valleys. Without waterproofing, a low slope roof may not shed water properly and may have standing water. Water will get through any opening on your roof and cause damage to the decking, insulation, and other components of the structure.
Standing seam roofs with seams at least two inches high are considered the most water-resistant roof. Since the joints between their panels are mechanically seamed, there are no areas where water can penetrate between panels.
Water-Shedding Roofs
The higher the slope of your roof is, the quicker water flows into the gutters and downspouts. Steep roofs are systems with at least 3:12 slope. Standard residential roofs usually have a slope of between 4:12 to 9:12. Decking and underlayment are required for water-shedding roofs, which are usually architectural roofs. Membranes and felt provide these roofs added protection against moisture.
Intricate trim details and roof profiles should be avoided for water-shedding roofs. Non-continuous points on this type of roof can be an opportunity for water infiltration. It’s also important to minimize the number of valleys, hips, and other details.
At Thompson Roofing and Construction, we’ve been providing superior roofing services for nearly a decade. We specialize in new construction, roof replacement, gutter installation, siding replacement, and more. Call us at (256) 952-3309 or fill out our contact form to get a free estimate. We serve homeowners in Huntsville, AL.
