A roof is a structure that protects against rain, snow, sunlight, wind and extremes of temperature. It can be flat or pitched. It can be made of a variety of materials, from banana leaves and wheaten straw to copper, aluminum sheeting and pre-cast concrete.
A home’s roofing is not its only vulnerability to wildfire risks, however. Other components influence a home’s fire risk, including vents, eaves, decks and broader vegetation management around the home.
Materials
Roofing materials are specially chosen to defend the top of a structure or building from rain, snow, direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. There are numerous choices for roofing materials from rudimentary to advanced, and each has its own unique properties and advantages. Some of the most popular roofing materials include shingles, shakes and slates that are available in many shapes and colors to match a home’s design. Other options include natural fibrous materials such as thatch, which has insulating properties to moderate temperature. Some roofs are covered with grass (modern ones known as green roofs, traditional ones called sod) that provide a living insulation as well as protection from the droppings and lice of birds.
Single-ply membranes that are heat welded or adhered to the roof surface are another roofing option. These are typically made from polypropylene and ethylene-propylene and come in several color options. They are durable and easy to maintain, and can last for up to 50 years.
Aluminum is also an option for roofing materials and can be found in architectural structures, automobiles and kitchen appliances. However, due to its light weight it tends to dent more easily than other metals after installation and requires special care to prevent corrosion. It can also oxidize and turn green if it is exposed to acidic substances.
Maintenance
It is important to have a maintenance plan for roofing properties. It can prevent future problems and keep tenants happy. A maintenance plan should be tailored to the local climate and wear and tear. For example, property managers in Arizona should focus on vermin and pest control, while those in Vermont need to think about ice dams and heavy winter snow falls. Also, a routine scan after each major storm is a good idea to check for damage and prevent leaks. Regular inspections will help a property owner spot issues quickly and fix them before they become serious. This will reduce the potential for tenant damage and legal liability.