Different Popular Types Of Roofs - by James Carlson

A roof does a lot for your home. It keeps you warm or cool and it keeps you protected from the elements. It also can add to the looks of your home. Read this article to learn about some of the different types of roofs available to you

One popular style of roof is the slate roof. Slate proofs are very attractive in appearance and offer excellent protection from fire. They are also a unique roof and provide for a long roof life. They do have some disadvantages though. They are extremely expensive and are much harder to install since they require extensive structures to support the weight. You also can not walk on the roof without risking damage to the tiles. If you can do it though, nothing looks like a slate roof.

Another popular option is a metal roof. Metal roofs are also durable and offer a long life. They are also resistant to sleet and hail and when made from recycled metal they are very environmentally sound. They are however more expensive to install requiring special tools and skills. Some people might also object to the sound of a metal roof since they may be louder in the rain.

The last option I will talk about is the concrete tile roof. They are similar to slate roofs but are much cheaper. They are an attractive roof available in a number of different styles and colors and offer excellent fire resistance. They are still expensive however and can be damaged by hail storms. You also may not be able to use them in climates subject to heavy freezing.

I hope this article has given you some useful information on roofs. If you are looking to do something different than the basic asphalt shingle, one of these options may be for you. Good luck with whichever one you decide

Learn more about roofs at The Roofer List a website on roof repair and roofers.

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Determine Roof Slope - by Steven Briesemeister

If you want to determine roof slope, it isn’t as difficult as you may think. In fact, it’s quite simple and can be done in a very short amount of time with minimal inconvenience. This is not a project that should be intimidating, even though home improvement work can sometimes be stressful. The slope of a roof is measured as the length that a roof rises vertically over a 12″ horizontal distance. You can do this job yourself, ask a friend to help or call a roofing professional if you are not comfortable doing the work yourself.
Determine Roof Slope, But Maintain Ladder Safety
To determine roof slope, place a ladder at the side of your house so that you may easily access the down slope edge of the roof. At this point, you should be in line with the roof’s peak, which means the roof should slope up from left to right or from right to left, but not away from you. Before you begin, make sure that your ladder is secured. You will need to use both hands to determine roof slope and will not want to be distracted by a shaky ladder. This can be bothersome, but also very dangerous. When working on a ladder, make sure that it’s perfectly safe. If you have trouble with heights and do not wish to climb the ladder yourself, ask a friend to help or call a roofing professional.
How To Determine Roof Slope Accurately
Now that you’re ready to get started, it’s important to know that you will not need to be on the roof to do this, which is ideal because walking directly on the roof can be dangerous. Begin by holding a framing square onto the roofline while making sure that the long end of the “L” is pointing toward the roof’s center and the short end is pointing down toward the ground. The long end of the framing square should meet the edge of the roof at the 12″ line. Level the square horizontally and read the measurement on the short end.
To determine roof slope, remember that rise is the measurement on the vertical leg while run is the 12″ measurement on the horizontal line. If you are using a framing square, keep in mind that some have measurements on both edges. If that is the case with your framing square, consult the measurements on the inside edges for an accurate number. Remember that, if your roof rises 8 inches vertically for every 12 inches horizontally, then you can determine roof slope to be at 8/12.
A Few Options
If you do not have a framing square to measure roof slope, a ruler or tape measure will also work because the slope is measured based on a 12″ horizontal distance. If you are using a tape measure, look for one that has a push lock. This will help avoid unnecessary problems with constantly having to pull the tape measure back out to double check the slope measurements

Steven Briesemeister who is the owner of http://www.roofer911.com has 33 years experience in all types of roof repair problems and new roof installation for residential and commercial accounts. As a Long Island and Northern Virgina roofing contractor, we believe, “Quality Doesn’t Cost…It Pays!

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Designing your thatched roof in South Africa - by Jan Lombaard

<p>
1. Consider carefully in which area of your property the roof will be erected<p>
2. Assess the ground area where the roof will be constructed for underground water pipes, power cables, irrigation pipes, etc. as this can play a role when planting poles in the ground for supporting the roof.<p>
3. If building work needs to be done it needs to be done before commencing with the erection of the roof. It is extremely difficult to do building work after the thatched roof has been erected and it affects the roof structures stability and strength. Decide beforehand where the braai facility,washing area, counter, bar area, fridge area, seating and any other fixed structures will be situated.Further plan the lighting, floor covering and decide on the final finish on the pole structure, do you require a matt or a gloss finish? Where the roof is to be erected on walls and beams or columns the following should be considered:<p>
a.) That the substructure and foundations are capable of supporting the roof
b.) That the roof structure exerts vertical and horizontal forces, due to wind forces and dead weight, on its supports, and thus the structure must be designed in the correct manner.
c.) An architect or structural engineer can be contacted to assist in this regard.<p>
4. When deciding on the size of the roof, take into consideration the space available and how many people will make use of the facility.<p>
5. After determining the size of the roof you should decide where the entrance/s would be and how high and wide they will be, as this will affect the design and shape of the roof.<p>
6. To determine the overhang required on the roof and where arches will be constructed take sunrise and sunset into consideration and the view you require from underneath the roof.<p>
7. Who will design the roof and are there any guarantees on the design as supplied by a structural engineer.<p>
8. A Proper roof plan showing sections, supporting walls, columns, foundations, connections, dimensions and the specifications of the material that will be used is highly recommended, as this will also assist in accurate costing and tendering.<p>
a.) For small lapas (less than 50 m²) it is not useful as a simplistic design is followed.
b.) For houses, lodges and other commercial projects it is a must as these projects are seldom simplistic and differ in size, shape, design and many other aspects.<p>
9. Who will draw the plans for the roof as required by the local authorities?<p>
10. The distance from other buildings as this affects the fire hazard of the planned roof.<p>
11. Contact insurance companies and get detail on premiums and requirements for lowest premiums. Determine what influences premiums and what is needed for a claim to be paid out.<p>
12. Will the elevated area due to the 45° pitch be used, as this can affect the design of the support structure of the roof?<p>
13. A competent person who knows the National Building Regulationâ™s legal requirements on structural strength, stability and safety should check the design of the roof structure.<p>
14. It is recommended that a structural engineer or an architect inspects and certifies the completed structure, as there is not yet a design code specifically for pole connections.

Jan Lombaard is the founder of http://www.builditall.co.za The National Building, Renovating and Home Improvement Directory of South Africa. He has been actively involved in the building and renovating industry for the last 12 years.

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Designing a Thatched roof in South Africa - by Jan Lombaard

Before designing your thatched roof the following should be taken into consideration:

1. Consider carefully in which area of your property the roof will be erected

2. Assess the ground area where the roof will be constructed for underground water pipes, power cables, irrigation pipes, etc. as this can play a role when planting poles in the ground for supporting the roof.

3. If building work needs to be done it needs to be done before commencing with the erection of the roof. It is extremely difficult to do building work after the thatched roof has been erected and it affects the roof structures stability and strength. Decide beforehand where the braai facility,washing area, counter, bar area, fridge area, seating and any other fixed structures will be situated.Further plan the lighting, floor covering and decide on the final finish on the pole structure, do you require a matt or a gloss finish? Where the roof is to be erected on walls and beams or columns the following should be considered:

a.) That the substructure and foundations are capable of supporting the roof
b.) That the roof structure exerts vertical and horizontal forces, due to wind forces and dead weight, on its supports, and thus the structure must be designed in the correct manner.
c.) An architect or structural engineer can be contacted to assist in this regard.

4. When deciding on the size of the roof, take into consideration the space available and how many people will make use of the facility.

5. After determining the size of the roof you should decide where the entrance/s would be and how high and wide they will be, as this will affect the design and shape of the roof.

6. To determine the overhang required on the roof and where arches will be constructed take sunrise and sunset into consideration and the view you require from underneath the roof.

7. Who will design the roof and are there any guarantees on the design as supplied by a structural engineer.

8. A Proper roof plan showing sections, supporting walls, columns, foundations, connections, dimensions and the specifications of the material that will be used is highly recommended, as this will also assist in accurate costing and tendering.

a.) For small lapas (less than 50 m²) it is not useful as a simplistic design is followed.
b.) For houses, lodges and other commercial projects it is a must as these projects are seldom simplistic and differ in size, shape, design and many other aspects.

9. Who will draw the plans for the roof as required by the local authorities?

10. The distance from other buildings as this affects the fire hazard of the planned roof.

11. Contact insurance companies and get detail on premiums and requirements for lowest premiums. Determine what influences premiums and what is needed for a claim to be paid out.

12. Will the elevated area due to the 45° pitch be used, as this can affect the design of the support structure of the roof?

13. A competent person who knows the National Building Regulation’s legal requirements on structural strength, stability and safety should check the design of the roof structure.

14. It is recommended that a structural engineer or an architect inspects and certifies the completed structure, as there is not yet a design code specifically for pole connections.

Jan Lombaard is the founder of www.builditall.co.za The National Building, Renovating and Home Improvement Directory of South Africa

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Deciding to Repair or Install a New Roof in Oregon - by Mark Starr

At one time or another, Portland residents will be faced with the decision to repair or replace their home or commercial roofing structure. While in some cases, the decision to install a new roof may be crystal clear, other situations may lend themselves to carefully weigh the pros and cons.

A professional roofing contractor in Portland can help you make the right choice between roof repair and a new roof installation for your Oregon home or business. The following list of considerations will assist you with your roofing decisions.

Residential and Commercial Roofing — How Old Is Your Portland Roof?

A chief thing to consider when deciding on roof repair in Portland or an entirely new roof is the age of your existing roof. A new roof generally lasts between 10 and 20 years. However, depending on maintenance, the materials used and the quality of installation, you can get as many as 50 years out of your roof.

Your Portland roofing contractor can conduct an inspection of your roof and make a prognosis as to how much longer it will last. If your roof is in its latter years, it may be better to install a new roof for your Oregon home or commercial roofing structure.

Residential and Commercial Roofing — What Is the Extent of Damage to Your Portland Roof?

It’s possible that roof repair for your Portland home or commercial building should be enough to help you get a few more years out of your roofing structure. For example, sometimes a roof leak can be eliminated with minimal repairs. In other cases, a leak can be an indication of a much larger problem, which can create the need for ongoing repairs that only seem to put off the inevitable.

Roof Repair Vs. New Roof Installation in Portland, Oregon — How Much Is This Going to Cost?

Of course, cost will be a factor in your decision between a new roof and roof repair for your home or business. If the cost of repairs for residential or commercial roofing in Portland are low and you aren’t simply masking a more complex issue, then the choice is simple.

However, if your roofing contractor in Portland paints a picture of constant repair needs and the ultimate necessity for installing a new roof for your Oregon home or business, replacement may be the most cost effective and hassle free answer.

Mark Starr covers articles on roofing in Portland OR for Elements Roofing, an Oregon based company specializing in new roof installations and OR roof repair.

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Customised Roof Racks for Special People and Occasions - by Alexus Dovon

21st century is the age of personalised solutions and services. Take the case of roof racks; you have tailor-made racks available in the market. Keeping in mind the requirement of people with special demand, specially made racks are supplied. In this way, there are racks for people with physical deformity. As they have deformity in their physical condition, they cannot handle things like the other normal persons. Something especially tailored is what they need.
Personalised roof racks are made to cater to the need of physically challenged people. Suppose there is a person with some problem in his leg for which he needs to use wheel chairs. Now when he gets out for fishing, he needs to take his wheel chair with him. Being deformed, he will find it difficult to mount the chair on the top of the car. But if it is made especially for people like him then he will have no problem to mount it.
Customised roof rack are not only available for physically challenged people; rather, they are available for special occasions and purposes also. For example, some people need a little space left on the roof top even after fixing the racks. They want to fix a box alongside the roof bars. They have options in the form of smaller roof rack that cover only a portion of the roof top. The remaining part can be reserved for the roof boxes or some other purpose.
Another example of personalised roof racks is the removable ones. There are racks that can be removed if necessary. This type of racks is generally liked by fastidious car owners who do not want something sticking on the roof top permanently; they find it incongruous. Another car accessory that is used to solve the space problem in a car and is fixed on the top of the car is roof boxes. They are meant for small kits and accessories that should be kept within a box.

Alexus Devon is an automobile writer specializing in automobile and car accessories products and has written authoritative articles on the Roof Rack industry. He has done his Master in Business Administration and is currently assisting directcaraccessories as a car accessories specialist.

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Copper Roof Shingles - by Steven Briesemeister

The world is full of copper lovers, and lovers of the copper roof are by no means an exception. There are essentially two different types of copper roof you can buy, there is the solid copper roof that consists solely of sheet copper on your roof. It is very resilient to weathering and will protect your house for decades but it is incredibly costly, as you can imagine. On the other hand, copper roof shingles are made by attached sheets of copper around standard asphalt shingles. All in all, the cost is likely to work out less than a slate roof but once the copper roof shingles have aged and been weathered they will take on the magnificent green look that only copper can create.
Can I use copper roof shingles?
One of the advantages that copper roof shingles offer over other forms of long lasting roofs, especially the solid copper roof, is that the shingles are actually surprisingly light and most roofs and structures can usually cope with the load admirably. As long as you are prepared to pay approximately $4 per square foot (compared to $1 for standard asphalt but up to $15 for solid copper) there is unlikely to be any good reason why you can not use copper roof shingles on your roof.
What kind of life can I expect from copper roof shingles? This is something of a confusing issue. Asphalt roof shingles will normally only last 20 years, but covered in copper sheeting the life of the asphalt shingles can easily be extended to between 30 and 40 years. However, the copper sheet itself will last an average of about 150 years. Obviously the copper roof shingles themselves will only last as long as the asphalt roof shingles that are found underneath the copper.
The cost of copper roof shingles.
Copper roof shingles are by no means a cheap alternative to other styles of roofing but if you like the look of copper and you want a longer life than asphalt shingles can offer then copper roof shingles are an excellent option. The copper sheet doesn’t an excellent job of protecting the asphalt shingles underneath effectively giving them an extended life of around 30 to 40 years. The copper sheeting also protects the shingles from most general wear and tear meaning that with good, regular maintenance you won’t need to have repairs done too often. On a yearly basis copper roof shingles do work out cheap but not overall and not for the initial installation.
Standard asphalt roof shingles usually cost around $1 per square foot, whereas solid copper roofing will set you back around $15 per square foot. Copper roof shingles are available at approximately $4 to $5 per square foot so they are 4 times more expensive than asphalt but considerably cheaper than a full solid copper roof. However, you are undoubtedly paying for the attractive looks of a copper roof but for less money than covering the entire roof in an expensive metal.

Steven Briesemeister who is the owner of http://www.roofer911.com has 33 years experience in all types of roof repair problems and new roof installation for residential and commercial accounts. As a Long Island and Northern Virgina roofing contractor, we believe, “Quality Doesn’t Cost…It Pays!

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Choosing Your Storage Shed Roof - by Stephanie Quinn

<p>
- Do you want to try to match the roofline of your home with your storage shed roof? By matching the roof style, your storage shed will blend in with your home.<p>
- Think about the climate where you live when choosing your storage shed roof. Steeper roofs keep snow from accumulating in snowy climates. Roofs with deep overhangs can partly shield windows, keeping the inside of sheds in hot climates cooler.<p>
- What about gutters and downspouts? Most of the time, sheds don’t need gutters and downspouts, but if your does, take this into consideration when choosing your storage shed roof.<p>
- Do you have tall items to store? If so, a taller gable storage shed roof will work better than a flat storage shed roof.<p>
<b>Types of Storage Shed Roofs</b><p>
The most common types of storage shed roofs include:<p>
- Flat Storage Shed Roof - Flat roofs are the most simple to install, but are less stylish than storage shed roofs with peaks. Flat roofs sometimes have drainage problems.<p>
- Gable (or Pitched) Storage Shed Roof - Gable roofs are two-sided sloping roofs that meet in the center at the top. Gable roofs make a peak with two triangular areas taking up the space in between the two slopes.<p>
- Gambrel Storage Shed Roof - A gambrel roof, common to many barns, is a two-sided roof with a double slope on each side. The lower slope is steeper. Just like with a gable roof, the two triangular sections take up the space in between the slopes. <p>
- Hipped Storage Shed Roof - Similar to the shape of a pyramid, a hipped roof has four sides that slope down flat from one center point.<p>
- Saltbox Storage Shed Roof - A saltbox roof is also similar to a gable roof. One side of the roof pitch is long and flat with the other side being short and more steep. The triangular sections in between the slopes follow the shape of the peak.<p>
<b>Storage Shed Roof Materials</b><p>
When choosing the material for your storage shed roof, you want it to be durable and long lasting so it will protect your valuables for many years to come. Common storage shed roof materials include:<p>
- Asphalt Shingles - Asphalt shingles are commonly used on residential home roofs, so they make a perfect choice for a storage shed roof if you want your shed to blend and already have asphalt shingles on the roof of your home. Asphalt shingles are simple to install, long lasting, weatherproof, and durable.<p>
- Clay and Concrete Tiles - Whether your choose clay or concrete, these tiles make an attractive, long lasting, weatherproof, and durable storage shed roof choice. Most of the people who choose clay and concrete tiles already have them installed on the roof of their home.<p>
- Felt - When using felt for a storage shed roof, nail it directly to the wood sheathing on flat roofs only. Make sure you choose felt with a preservative coating. While felt is the least expensive and simplest to install of all of the storage shed roof materials, it is not as stylish as other materials.<p>
- Metal - Some people love the sound of rain on a metal roof and others don’t enjoy the noise, so keep noise in mind when choosing metal for your storage shed roof. Metal roofs are a logical choice if you aren’t bothered by the noise because they are inexpensive, simple to install, attractive, lightweight, water tight, rot-resistant, insect-resistant, and fire resistant. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s directions so you don’t have trouble with rust down the road.<p>
- Slate Tiles - Slate is expensive and takes considerable effort to install, but they make a hardwearing, long lasting, attractive, waterproof, and durable storage shed roof.<p>
- Wood Shakes and Wood Shingles - Made from either cedar or pine, wood shakes (rough cut wood) or wood shingles (smooth cut wood) are one of the most attractive choices for a storage shed roof. They are long lasting and durable. However, they are an expensive choice.<p>

Want more ideas for your storage shed roof? Check out the free resources available at www.buildashedplans.com.

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Best posts on Scaffolding Exeter from Jan 2010

• A Few Good Tips on Tile Roof Installation - by Chuck Sarte
  Posted on Friday, January 22nd, 2010 in roof - Comments: (0)
  <p>In fact, the flat tile roofs that are the most popular only have a life span of just over fifty years, because they are manufactured from saw dust mixed with cement which will slowly break down over time. Spanish style ceramic tile roofs however; can easily last the life of your home but they are substantially more expensive to purchase.
• Aerial Infrared Roof Moisture Surveys - by Gregory R. Stockton
  Posted on Monday, January 25th, 2010 in roof - Comments: (0)
  Aerial Infrared Roof Moisture Surveys INTRODUCTIONIR P/PM (infrared predictive/preventive maintenance) is not limited to annual infrared surveys of electrical switchgear. For instance, infrared thermography can be a very effective tool for roof asset management. IR roof moisture surveys are performed on roofs to quantify the extent of roof moisture (water) that is inside the roof system. Infrared thermography is not leak management.
• Can Roof Hail Damage Result in Replacing an Entire Roof? - by Tim McLoughlin
  Posted on Wednesday, January 27th, 2010 in roof - Comments: (0)
  <p>How much damage to your roof can come during a hail storm? In Georgia, hail storms are not that uncommon and many homeowners visually see hail several times during the year. That is the case in metro Atlanta, where the last few years have resulted in elevated hail activity. </p><p><p>Most people are somewhat aware of the damage hail can cause, in particular the larger variety of hail that is notorious for damaging and denting cars.
• Choosing a Portland Oregon Roofing Specialist for Your Home - by Mark Starr
  Posted on Sunday, January 31st, 2010 in roof - Comments: (0)
  <p>Portland, Oregon, is well known for its lush green landscape. The City of Roses is located in the climate zone of the Marine west coast, which means warmth in the summer and lots of precipitation throughout the rest of the year.</p><p><p>Given the climate of this vibrant portal city, a solid roof structure for your home is of utmost importance.
• Construction Accidents - An Unfortunate Product of the Building Boom - by Tim Penn
  Posted on Friday, January 15th, 2010 in scaffolding erectors - Comments: (0)
  The early part of the 20th Century saw the United States enjoy an unprecedented building boom, both for residential and commercial properties. This was obviously a benefit to the overall economy, as more people own homes and commercial property now than ever before. Owning property is one of the safest and most reliable investments available for many reasons, but there was also an upswing in one unfortunate variable in regards to this boom - a distinct rise in construction accidents.
• Hiring Scaffolding - by Phil ray
  Posted on Sunday, January 17th, 2010 in scaffolding - Comments: (0)
  Hiring scaffoldingWhen you need scaffolding to do a job don’t think of it as a DIY job. If you need scaffolding you’ll need to contact a scaffolding hire company. If you do it yourself, you may find that you will become liable for any problems or issues that arise. A good place to start looking for a hire company is your Local Council or authority.
• New Or Used Construction Equipment - The Return On Investment Decision - by Chris Warren
  Posted on Friday, January 1st, 2010 in construction - Comments: (0)
  It has always been a debate whether to buy new or used construction equipment. Smaller fleets prefer to buy used construction equipment as they attract less capital investments. Another reason for people to opt for used construction equipment is that they are sometimes as good as new and come at a very heavy discounted price as compared to that offered at the showrooms.
• Polymers in Construction - a New Handbook from Rapra - by Sarah Ward
  Posted on Tuesday, January 5th, 2010 in construction - Comments: (0)
  Rapra’s new Handbook of Polymers in Construction provides a wealth of information on the use of plastics, rubbers and composites in building and construction applications. (PRWEB) January 19, 2005 — As well as providing the materials for innovative design, polymers make a significant contribution to other long-life applications such as pipes, insulation, windows, cables and floor coverings. Consumption of plastics by the building and construction sector in Western Europe is predicted to rise by more than 60% to almost 8 million tonnes in 2010.
• Portable Construction Buildings are a Cornerstone of the Construction Business - by Francisco Segura
  Posted on Friday, January 8th, 2010 in construction - Comments: (0)
  Portable construction buildings have been a valuable tool that has been used in the construction field for many years now. The need to portability and transportability is needed in a business that is constantly on the move from jobsite to jobsite and portable buildings provide those two important factors. Since the construction industry is one of constant growth and change, portable construction buildings offer one of the only reasonable ways for conducting business in a productive and efficient way.
• What’s Contained In A Construction Business Plan - by Shaunta Pleasant
  Posted on Wednesday, January 13th, 2010 in construction - Comments: (0)
  It is no secret that the construction business has been an extremely profitable place to see for quite a number of years. Home construction and business construction have both been growing at incredible rates, and that means that there is significant opportunity in all aspects of building and repairing homes and businesses.==Start Up Capital For Your Business==Of course in order to be successful in the construction world, you will need a solid construction business plan behind you.

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