Roofing has changed with advance in technology, from simple use of simple materials to use of sophisticated ones. Roofing is important to a house. Not just for covering the uppermost part protecting you from harsh weather conditions but also from dangerous animals. The type and characteristics of the roof to be installed solely depends on the purpose of the building it is covering, materials and the traditions of the locales. Different traditions calls for different roofing styles. Africans, Asians, Americans and Europeans all have their different roofing styles greatly influenced by their specific cultures.
Roofs were probably the first structures built by man. The skill to construct a shelter enabled the primitive homo sapiens to live outside of natural protection such as caves. This might have been an inclined apparatus such as a lean-to covered in leaves which directed the water downward and away from the occupants.
Although the materials have changed most modern roofs are designed with the same purpose. There is a similar inclined platform-design with overlaying shingles that move the water without any moisture coming inside. The type of materials depends on what part of the world you live in. In warmer climates clay tiles are prevalent while asphalt shingles are common in cooler, North American areas.
Sourced from: http://www.doityourself.com/stry/diy-roofing
Factors to Consider before Roofing
Putting up a new house is hectic especially when you are not sure about the design of roofing you want to do. However, you will still want the best out of the finished house. Your house may be as old as it is with worn out roof and you may want to repair or replace it. Extreme weather conditions most of the time damage roofs. When it comes to repairing or replacing your current roof you may need to seek advice from experts and consider the following factors before the work starts.
- Are the bedrooms grouped or separated? If you have young children you probably don’t want a floor plan with the master bedroom on one side of the home and the other bedrooms on the other side of the home.
- Is there enough space? You want to make sure that your existing furniture will fit. Also, if you have a large extended family that will frequently gathering in your home the size and openness of the common living space is an important factor.
- Can you afford the cost of construction? Bigger isn’t always better. Many people do not realize just how expensive raw materials and labor can be. According to a report titled
- Can the house plan be modified? House plans that are expandable offer you more flexibility if your needs change in the future.
Sourced from: http://www.ghanahomesblog.com/2013/02/7-factors-to-consider-when-choosing.html
Roofing Cost
Roofing is very crucial thus costly. One needs to have a proper plan to get the best roofs that will envelope the house well and for a long time. The roof must also be resistant to weather conditions like wind, acidic rain and snow. All this come at an extra cost and one must have an effective financial plan. Invest on your roof to have that superb finishing of your dream home.
Government Loans and Rebates for Roof Financing
Federal Housing Administration (FHA) Title I loans can be used for home improvements that will make your home more livable and useful. This includes roof financing. Property owners with good credit and limited home equity qualify for this loan. Banks and other qualified lenders make these loans from their own funds, and FHA insures the lender against a possible loss. This includes new roofs, as well as improvements to luxury items such as swimming pools or outdoor fire places. Check out the program’s website for more information about roof financing.
If you are financing a new roof that is energy efficient, be sure to check out the Database of State Incentives for Renewable Energy (DSIRE). This website details state, local, utility, and federal incentives for making energy efficient improvements to your home and can help you in the roof financing process.
Sourced from: http://www.homeadvancement.com/roof/new-roof/financing
The Law and Roofing
You must not just do roofing because you found it existing. You have to ask yourself some questions before you start the process. First make sure you know which type of roofing the local government recommends.
This is an easy process and the instructions are simple to follow. You may prefer to contact your local building department instead and ask if the individual you wish to hire has a current license. They will also tell you if the roofer is up to date with all the licensing requirements such as their insurance coverage’s as well as if they can pull a permit for your roofing job. Small repairs do not require a permit but large repairs, additions, remodeling and reroofs require your roofer to pull a permit for the work. This too is the law.
Don’t make the mistake of hiring a roofer just because you think he knows what he is doing or that he is cheaper than others. If he is not licensed or insured and you experience any problems whatsoever like getting completely ripped-off, there is no legal agency local or state-wide that will help you. You were in violation of the codes and the regulations that make up the laws that protect you.
Sourced from: http://www.roofingandroofers.com/roofing/roofing_laws.htm