Roofs Play A Key Role In Protecting Building

Roofs play a key role in protecting building occupants and interiors from outside weather conditions, primarily moisture. The roof, insulation, and ventilation must all work together to keep the building free of moisture. Roofs also provide protection from the sun. In fact, if designed correctly, roof overhangs can protect the buildings exterior walls from moisture and sun.

Different roof designs and materials are used for residential and commercial buildings.Commercial buildings typically use low-slope or flat roofs, while home roofs are sloped. The concerns regarding moisture, standing water, durability and appearance are different, reflected in the choices of roofing materials.

Roof design can impact the building's thermal performance. For example, in a metal-framed building, the metal eaves can act as thermal fins, moving heat out of the building, which is not desirable in heating climates.

A number of roofing materials are available:

• Asphalt
• Metal
• Wood
• Concrete and Tile
• Single-Ply
• Solar Shingles
• Recycled Content
• Coatings