When you buy a new roof system in Minnesota, you are buying more than just what you see. There are other parts of the system that you can’t see and they are very important at protecting your home from the weather. It is important that you know the different components of a roof system so that you can ensure you choose the best of everything for your roof.

Here are some of the components and some terms that you should familiarize yourself with when discussing your new roof with your Minnesota roofing contractor:

• Built-up roof – This is a roof that consists of layers of alternating hot-mapped asphalt and roofing felt. The roof is then topped off with a layer of gravel.
• Flashing – This is sheet metal that is used to join the different planes to prevent leakage from the roof.
• Counterflashing – This is the part of the flashing that is overlapped over a single shingle flashing.
• Cornice – The part of the roof you see protruding out from the walls at the side of the house.
• Deck – This is the surface that is usually made of plywood and is the surface in which the roofing materials are applied.
• Drip Edge – This is an L-shaped strip that is installed along the edges of the roof and allows water to drip off of the edges away from the eaves and the siding.
• Fascia – This is the trim board behind the eaves and the gutter.
• Felt – This is also referred to as “tar paper” by roofers in Minnesota and around the U.S. It is usually made of rags, asphalt, or paper.
• Penetrations – Penetrations consists of the chimney, vents, pipes, and stacks that penetrate the deck of the roof.
• Sheathing – The sheathing is the boards that are nailed to the rafters and the outside roofing materials may be secured.
• Rafter – This is a structure that sheathing may be nailed to.
• Shingle flashing – These are the strips that are under each shingle and bent up the edge of the wall or chimney.
• Underlayment – This is the material, usually felt, that is laid upon the sheathing or deck before the shingles are applied.

Other components that you will find are part of the roof include the actual roof covering, which can be shingles, tile, slate, cedar shakes, or another covering; the deck, the roof structure, the flashing, and the drainage system to ensure the water can drain off the roof, which will prevent leaks when done properly.

Talk to your Minnesota roofer about the different components of your roofing system so that you can make sure you have the best all around. You do not want any part of your roof to be of a low quality because this can compromise the rest of your roof. You certainly don’t want this to happen because of the fact your roof is a very large investment. Every part of it works together, so you need to make sure the entire thing is what it should be.

You have probably noticed that metal roofing is popping up on more and more homes. This roofing is not like the roofing found on commercial buildings and barns, but is something completely different. Metal roofing in Minneapolis is now available in many different designs, colors, and in different price ranges. Many find that this is the best deal for them when purchasing a new roof. As a matter of fact, Minneapolis metal roofing is becoming a trend.

The Colors and Designs

At one time you may have only seen gray or red metal roofing on a home. The metal roofing was very easy to identify because they all looked like. However, this is changing. Metal roofs in Minneapolis are sporting different colors and styles. If you want blue, you can have blue. If you want brown, you can have brown. The colors are virtually limitless.

But what is amazing is how different designs have also emerged throughout recent years. A metal roof can be made to look like shingles or cedar shake roofing. Of course this may cost you more money, but can be helpful when you want to establish curb appeal.

And if the Minneapolis contractor you are working with does not have the colors or styles that you’re interested in, you can look into ordering them to make sure you can have what you want for your home.

Saving Money

Another important aspect of Minneapolis metal roofing is the fact that you can save money. The average lifespan of a metal roof is 50 years. This is well above the normal lifespan of other types of roofing. When you look at these facts, it is easy to realize that there may be fewer roof repairs throughout the years, if any, and you will most likely not have to replace the roof of your home at any time while you’re living in it. It simply depends on what the weather has in store for your roof, but know that Minneapolis metal roofing can withstand quite a bit of wear and tear.

You also save money on energy costs because the metal reflects sunlight and heat. This keeps your home cooler in the summer, which reduces your cooling costs in the summer.

Making the right choice

All you have to do is consult with a professional Minneapolis roofing contractor to find the option that is right for you. You may decide that metal roofing is right for you, but then you may decide that it isn’t. You will have to look at your budget so that you know what you can pay initially. If your existing roof has been damaged by a wind storm, hail storm, or another act of nature, you can contact your insurance company and see how they can assist you with the damage. You may find that your out-of-pocket expenses are not quite as high with the help of your insurance and that you can buy the best for your home.

With a lifespan of 50 years, you definitely want to make sure your decision is the right one.