Underlayment Application Of Asphalt Shingles On Low Slope Roofs
See UNDERLAYMENT DOUBLE vs SINGLE.
Start with a 19-inch strip of 15 lb. asphalt-saturatedfelt along the eaves, and lap succeeding courses by19 inches as shown in Figure 2-3.
Wherever there is a possibility of ice or snow buildupor the backup of water from leaves or pine needles, installa self-adhering bituminous membrane along the eaves thatextends up the roof to a point at least 36 inches inside theinterior wall line.
An alternative approach, not widely usedanymore, is to seal all laps in the lower courses of roofingfelt with lap cement or asphalt plastic cement.
In areas with extensive snowfall or windblown rain, the best protection against leakage is to cover the entire low-slope roof area with a bituminous membrane, as shown in Figure 2-4.
Vertical end laps should be at least 3 inches and horizontallaps 6 inches. If the roof changes to a steeper slope,for example, where a shed dormer joins the main roof, extendthe membrane 12 to 18 inches up the main roof slope.
Bituminous membranes are self-healing around nail holes,and because they bond fully to the sheathing, any leaksthat occur cannot spread.
As a safeguard against expensive callbacks, many roofers now apply membrane to the entire surface of any roof with a slope of 4:12 or less.
Steeper Roofs Perform Better
As a very general rule, a steeper roof will perform better and last longer than a roof with a lower slope.
A steeper roof will shed water and snow faster and more completely, and is less likely to have debris such as tree leaves accumulate on the roof. They also tend to have less exposure to the suns damaging UV rays over the course of a day than a less steep roof.
Using a slope finder to find the slope of a roof. Its important to bridge the individual shingles to get an accurate reading.
Factors Affecting Minimum Roof Pitch
Due to the fact that there are many roofing styles and different kinds of roofing materials, there is no universal minimum roof pitch.
In most cases, manufacturers will recommend the minimum roof pitch for their roofing materials but ultimately, it lies upon the installer to come up with a considerate pitch since every roof is unique and requires different considerations.
Below are some of the recommended minimum pitches for different kinds of roofs:
Don’t Miss: How To Write An Estimate For A Roof Job
How Often Does A Roof Need To Be Replaced
President at Bill Ragan Roofing Company
A roof replacement is never a fun experience. It can be stressful, time-consuming, and, most importantly, expensive.
The less you go through the process, the better. But that doesnt stop you from worrying about how often youll actually have to get your roof replaced. Especially if youve had bad experiences in the past.
For over 30 years, the team at Bill Ragan Roofing has helped homeowners understand when and how often they’ll have to replace their roof. Now we want to do the same for you.
We’ll kick this article off with helping you understand when and how often you should replace your roof. After that, we give you the lifespans of the 5 most popular roofing materials, so you know when you should replace your specific roof.
And at the very end, we give you a guide that you and every homeowner needs for a roof replacement.
Types Of Drainage Systems For Roofs
A sound drainage system is just as crucial in accommodating proper rainwater drainage from your roof as a sloped roof. So while youre choosing how much of a slope youre going to keep, its good that you decide what kind of drainage system you want on your roof.
Choosing the right drainage system can significantly impact your roofs life, as well as the value of your building. Most of the factors which affect your choice of a drainage system are the same as those mentioned above for roof slopes.
Here are some standard drainage systems used throughout the world:
Don’t Miss: Does A New Roof Qualify For Solar Tax Credit
Match Pitch Of Existing Roof
The covered porch roof pitch should match the existing house. Buildings with multiple roof pitches do not appear cohesive. The porch should appear to be part of the structure, not an addition pasted on. If it is not possible to match the pitch of the existing roof, use a pitch that is shallower than the roof do not use a steeper pitch, because the form of the covered porch will overpower or contrast with the main roof.
Just How Much Incline Should A Flat Roof Have
Normally, minimum incline for water to run is 1% . Nevertheless, minimum incline for a flat roof by constructing code right here is 2%. . You have sufficient incline for your roof, nonetheless you will certainly most likely need some type of membrane layer roof covering considering that it is extremely reduced incline
Is ponding on a flat roof a issue? Ponding happens when, after a tornado or hefty rainfall, water accumulates in swimming pools on theroof Many swimming pools of water will swiftly drain pipes off or perhaps vaporize however proprietors ought to understand the indications that ponding has actually come to be a concern. The bright side is, ponding will certainly not create fast damages or perhaps void a guarantee.
Read Also: What Kind Of Nail Gun For Roofing
Pros And Cons Of Various Roof Slopes
Low pitch roofs are easier to install and safer to walk around to complete repairs and maintenance. This is fortunate since flat roofs are somewhat more prone to leaks and require frequent inspections.
Low-pitch roofs are seldom used in regions of severe weather due to the stress of snow accumulation on roofs of structures.
Flat roofs can be significantly cheaper to install than a pitched roof, but they will often require more maintenance. Flat roofs are popular in regions of sparse rainfall and are favored by modern architects in contemporary designs.
Medium-pitched roofs come in a variety of styles and provide help with dispersing snow and rainfall while still being able to be inspected and repaired by the average homeowner by walking around the surface.
High-pitch, non-walkable roofs are dynamic and present an exciting appearance, but they are more expensive to install, and repairs will be left to roofing contractors with all the necessary safety equipment.
The History Of The Metal Roof
Metal roofs have been around for centuries now. They have been found dating as far back as the 3rd century BC. We have some metal roofs around today that were made back in the 1800s, that still stand as a living testament of their long-lasting durability. Metal roofs have been known to last up to a hundred years or more, which is why you will find some installers giving warranties on them for up to 50 years.
Metal roofs are near impermeable, and they are known to be resistant to all types of dangerous elements such as fire, heavy snow, hail storms, and even hurricanes. Theyre also resistant to corrosion, shrinkage, and cracks, oh so they are superior to shingles in many aspects. Metal roofs are also cheaper than asphalt shingles.
Metal roofs can also give you enhanced energy efficiency due to their high solar reflectance, providing reductions in heat gain because it reflects lighter rather than absorbing it. This offers an ongoing savings on energy costs, and thats something you definitely want to add in if you are considering buying one.
You May Like: How Much Should A Rubber Roof Cost
Factors Influencing Shed Roof Pitch
There are tons of reasons to consider when building a shed roof, and the first has to take into consideration the safety of whatever is going to be in your shed. Convenience and interior space are great, but if everything in your interior is wet from leaks, then it doesnt matter how nice your roof looks.
Minimum Roof Slope Requirement For Drainage
For flat roofs, the minimum recommended roof slope is 1/8 per 1 foot to accommodate rainwater drainage. As a ratio, it would be 0.125:12, or 0.125 inches slope per 12 inches.
However, the minimum slope as per the International Building Code for standard flat roofs made from asphalt or tar is 1/4 per 1 foot. Or in ratio terms, 0.25:12, or 0.25 inches of slope per 12 inches.
Despite how it may sound, both of these slopes are quite low and are usually not enough for proper rainwater drainage. The minimum recommended roof slope as per the International Building Code is only 1.19-degrees steep.
Generally, a standard flat roof made from common roof materials should have a slope of around 2:12, which means a slope of 2 inches per 12 inches . But there are still many factors that play a role in determining the ideal roof slope for your flat roof.
You May Like: How To Fix A Travel Trailer Roof
What Is The Minimum Slope Consideration For An Asphalt Shingle Roof
Posted on March 14th, 2019 Applied Roofing Services
The asphalt shingle roof is the widely used roof covering in North America. This roof is resistant to extreme weather conditions and can add great value to your home. People choose this roof over other roofing options due to its easy installation and adaptability. Asphalt roofs are available in many colors and designs. Home designs not only include angled or steeper roofs but they may include a roof with a minimum slope.
Types Of Asphalt Shingles
Three-Tab Shingles The most economical and popular option, distinguished by tabs and cutouts along their long lower edge. When installed, each shingle looks like three separate pieces.
Architectural Shingles The laminated additional asphalt layer on their lower portions create a contoured, dimensional look. Asphalt sealant bonds the layers, strengthening their waterproof capacity. Although long-lasting, these shingles are not recommended for low-sloped roofs that are prone to wind-driven rain.
Recommended Reading: A Team Roofing Collierville Tn
Inadequacy Of Roofing Felt As A Vapor Barrier For Asphalt Shingles In Hot Humid Climates
A Building Sciences Corporation report lso elaborates the usefulness of placing a vapor barrier on the roof deck below shingles in hot humid climates. BSC points out that:
Unvented roofs with asphalt shingles in hot humid climates require a vaporbarrier between the asphalt shingles and the roof deck. This is because asphalt roofing materials store water from dew or rain.
Thus asphalt shingles form a water reservoir not unlike wood shingle or shake roofs.
The report argues that this stored moisture is driven inwards when sun strikes the damp or wet roof surface, and it continues to argue that moisture is driven through vapor-permeable roofing paper, felt, and plywood or OSB roof decking, thus ultimately into the attic space
But unlike an asphalt shingle roof nailed directly to a roof deck, a wood shingle or shake roof that has been installed using best practices includes a disposal path for water absorbed in the roof surface: an air space between the wood roofing and the roof deck, or the installation of wood roofing over spaced nailers or “skip sheathing”.
In cool or temperate climates this does not present a problem because the combination of heavy wetting from due or rain i snot combined with solar heating at high outdoor temperatures, say the authors who go on to argue that that buckled roof shingles observed in the morning relax during the day.
But on an un-vented roof moisture driven inwards in hot humid climates, needs to be addressed.
[QUESTIONS-DF:
What Is The Smallest Pitch Of A Roof
The smallest pitch of a roof is 0.5/12. A completely flat roof is a poor design, as water and snow will collect on it, eventually leading to your roof collapsing in from the weight of it all.
A common choice for flat roofing material is EPDM rubber, as it is highly durable, waterproof, and can be made from recycled materials. Flat roofs also tend to be cheaper and require less maintenance than traditional roofing, making them a perfect addition to your home.
Don’t Miss: How To Waterproof Concrete Roof Deck
One: Measure From The Roof
One method to find the pitch is to climb on the roof and measure the rise for a 12 run. Youll need a level that is 12 or longer and a tape measure.
On the roof, hold the level perfectly level, and measure the height from the roof to the level 12 inches away from where the level touches the surface this will be the rise.
For example, if the end of a level is 4 above the roof at a point 12 away from where it meets the surface, then the pitch is 4:12.
Minimum Pitch For Metal Roof
The minimum roof slope for metal roofs is dependent upon the roof profile. With regards to metal roofing, the profile refers to the shape adopted by the metal sheets when they are bent to form the panels.
To get the minimum pitch for a metal roof, the vertical rise per foot is divided by the horizontal slope. Most metal roofs will have minimum pitches of three in twelve, but this might sometimes go down depending on whether there are special installation procedures issued by the manufacturer regarding that particular roofing material.
To be on the safe side, however, it is recommended that you first have a look at the manufacturers recommendations about the minimum pitch for metal roofs before you decide on any form of customization.
Read Also: What Are The Best Shingles To Put On A Roof
Choosing The Right Pitch
In general terms, the more traditional the house, the steeper the pitch should be, with Victorian and Arts & Crafts designs being the steepest and Georgian being the shallowest .
Much of the housing of the 20th century opted for shallower pitches to enjoy cost savings but the reigniting of interest in house design, coupled with the desire to make better use of roof space, has led to steeper pitches in recent years.
Get the latest news, reviews and product advice straight to your inbox.
Thank you for signing up to Homebuilding. You will receive a verification email shortly.
There was a problem. Please refresh the page and try again.
By submitting your information you agree to the Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over.
Roof Pitch Or Roof Slope
First off lets get some terminology out of the way.
When referring to roofs should we use the term Pitch or Slope?
Both these terms work interchangeably and can mean the same thing however since we are referencing the code related to roofs, the code uses the term Slope.
You will see these examples as we go though explaining the topic of roof slopes as referenced in the code.
Recommended Reading: What Is A Tesla Roof
What Is A 4/12 Roof Pitch
A 4/12 is a roof slope that rises by 4 inches for every 12 inches across. This forms an angle of 18.5° between the horizontal section and the roof, and creates a gentle incline that is seen as a midpoint between a low-pitch and medium-pitch roof. A 4/12 slope is enough to accommodate water runoff, but is not suitable for regions that are affected by heavy snowfall. Standard asphalt and composition shingles are the best for a 4/12 roof rubber and wood shingles are unsuitable.
How Pitch Affects The Cost Of Roofing
The pitch of a roof will have a definite impact on the cost to install or replace it. Steeper roofs cost more to install, so bear that in mind when choosing the right pitch for your project.
A low-slope roof might cost 10% more to install than a flat-roof, while a steep-slope roof might cost 20-30% more. Roofs with a very steep pitch might cost even more than that to install.
If youre considering a new roof, we suggest getting several estimates to learn more about the right pitch for your roof and understand the cost of installation. We also cover more about roof replacement cost in detail in our cost guide.
Recommended Reading: Can You Paint A Roof
Exactly How Do Flat Roofing Systems Function
A flat roof is a roof which is nearly degree in comparison to the lots of sorts of sloped roofing systems The incline of a roof is effectively called its pitch as well as flat roofing systems have up to roughly 10 °. Flat roofing systems are an old kind primarily made use of in dry environments as well as enable the roof room to be made use of as a living room or a living roof.
Do flat roofing systems constantly leakage? The primary factor that flat roofing systems are more probable to leakage is that they are much less able to drop water. To put it simply, they do not enable aspects like water to glide off them as conveniently as considerably sloped roofing systems do. All roofing systems are sloped a minimum of a couple of levels to stay clear of the allocation of resting pools of water.
Problems Intrinsic To Low Slope Metal Roofing
Roofs with a pitch lower than 1.5 B would problems with condensation and air/water movement through the deck, and condensation buildup.
These moisture problems can lead to a number of other problems like corrosion of metals and wiring, wood decaying molds. That is why you may have noticed that just about all of the roofs you see with very low pitch have coverings.
That said, if you want to have a metal roof that is worth its weight in value, that doesnt come with a ton of problems, the minimum pitch for metal roof applications should be kept at around at least a 3 1/2:12 or above.
In the end, its best to hire an experienced metal roof expert to ensure that your roof coverings are performing up to IRC standards and other local building codes, so that you can benefit from your metal roof for years to come. We hope this helps!
Read Also: How Much Does A Gable Roof Cost
