Beyond the Shingles: The Many Complex Layers of a Solid Roof

The art of roofing is not one with particular glamour or fame. There are no roofer celebrities, no famous roofer Instagram accounts, or even roofer Halloween costumes. And that’s all fine because we got bigger fish to fry. We help homeowners and business owners keep their structures safe. Most people don’t pay attention to roofs unless there is a problem with it or it is falling on their head or they are buying a new home and looking to see if they’re in for a replacement any time soon. But just like great art, great roofs make it look easy and simple. We aim for that kind of grace and perfection in every roof we repair and/or install. We thought we’d take at the complex layers of a roof and what makes residential and commercial roofs different and how we work differently with each.

The Intricate Layers of Your Residential or Commercial Roof

If every homeowner were to peel the layers of their home like an onion, they would run into the many layers that make the sound construction and foundation possible. So let’s take a look at the many complex layers that go into a long-lasting quality roof:

  • Layer 1: The first layer that we’d peel off would be the topmost layer and that would either be the shingles or slate tiles. Shingles are usually made out of fiberglass and layered to create a tough and flexible exterior. The top of the shingle might either be ceramic granule or limestone.
  • Layer 2: The underlayment will be right below the shingles. This section often includes a shield against moisture. The purpose of the underlayment is more than anything to act as another barrier between the elements and your home. It protects against moisture, rainfall, etc.
  • Layer 3: The roof deck is the foundation that lies beneath the above mentioned. If we were peeling off layer by layer, we would come to your roof deck. This plywood or wood provides the necessary flat surface required before putting on the other layers. This layer can be badly damaged is moisture is allowed to penetrate the first two layers. 
  • Layer 4: Not often discussed or talked about but the ventilation is an important part of your roofing system. Roof decks will typically be plywood or OSB sheets nailed to the supportive beams or jolts.

Every layer of a roofing system works together to improve your home’s energy efficiency and performance. In many ways, a good roof will also be beneficial for the rest of your structure, as it will ensure no moisture is seeping in. 

Smith and Ramirez Working Every Kind of Roof  Under the Sun 

When it comes to residential roofs, we do it all. We install everything from shingle roofing, tile roofing, slate roofing, metal roofing, and more.  The great thing about working with residential roofs is that we get to be part of the home experience of our clients. So much of a client’s home is in the roof and whether they are choosing to replace it because it’s necessary or because you want a new type of roof, we become part of this new piece of their home.

The Secrets to a Solid Residential Roof 

A leaky roof is not the kind of repair you can put on the back burner for any amount of time. It should be addressed and repaired right away. Assessing whether it is time to replace your roof begins with gauging the severity of leaks and determining if missing shingles are a problem. The residential roofs we do include:

  • Metal roofs 
  • Slate roofs
  • Shingle roofs

And what is the main secret to a good residential roof?  Materials and installation. Working with materials that are high quality and a roof installer that knows what he’s doing, you’re roof is likely to get the most bang for its buck. 

The Secrets to Long-Lasting  Commercial Roofs 

Another one of our specialties is working with commercial roofs. We have done everything from fast-food restaurants like Taco Bell, Chick Fil A, or diners like IHOP, and even larger industrial facilities like Labeltech, and more. 

Just like in residential roofing, commercial roofing needs specialized and meticulous installation as well as solid materials to ensure the longevity it needs. Today, there is a great variety of roof coatings and roofing materials that will increase the energy efficiency of your commercial building and protect it from the damage of the sun rays and traffic.

Get Your Roof On With Smith and Ramirez Roofing

If you’re looking for professionals in the El Paso area, to repair, replace, or install your roof, look no further than Smith and Ramirez Roofing. We are seasoned professionals that can help you get your roof looking and working great for you. Don’t let those leaks get worse or those shingles wither away. Call us today.

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