The Five Most popular Roofing types in Birmingham
If you are keen on roofing, you probably have noticed different types of roofing. In fact, you may be a little confused on what is perfect for your home. The truth is that selecting a good type has many challenges. Firstly, you need to make certain it matches your home design and structure. Secondly, it should put up with the harshest weather/climate and last for a long time. Thirdly, you want a piece that will enhance the overall looks of your home. Fourthly, it should be made from environmentally friendly and safe materials. Fifthly, the installation should be easy and require minimal maintenance. In this article, we will briefly examine the five most popular roofing types in Birmingham.
1. Flat Roofing
This is undoubtedly among the most popular roofing options in Birmingham. You will see it in residential, commercial as well as industrial building. One unique aspect about it is that it has no ridges between two roof sections. Instead, you great a continuous roof that follows the same slope. One edge is raised a little higher than the other for easy flow of water, dirt, debris, snow, pebbles and other things. The pitch or gradient varies from roof to roof and this is influenced by the property design and individual preference.
The common materials of construction include iron sheet, concrete, and tiles. For cladding, Birmingham Roofers use bituminous felt or rubber. Advantages of this kind of roof include easy installation, lower cost of installation, easy maintenance, saves space, and compatible with most buildings. The downside is that it can be a challenge to fit in it very large buildings.
2. Pitched Roof
Another common roofing type is the pitched roof, which is also known as the sloped roof. It comprises of two sections that are connected together at the highest point known as the ridge. The pitch or slope varies from roof to roof and may be as low as 20 degrees or as high as 70 degrees. the greater the incline angle the faster the flow of water, snow, hailstorms, leaves, dirt, dust and other debris. The two sides may be of the same dimension or different. A roof that has more slope will take more materials as opposed to one with a lesser pitch.
The main positives of this roofing type are that it is strong, doesn’t encourage debris to stand on the roof for too long, and is more aesthetically appealing in comparison to the flat type. The negative however is that it takes up more space and materials. Interacting with a seasoned and trustworthy Birmingham roofer will assist you in deciding if it’s a good option for your home or office.
3. Gable Roof
The gable roof is classified as a pitched roof and is at times referred to as a peaked roof (particularly in the US). It comprises of two sloping sections that are connected together at the top via a ridge. However, the sidewall, which is the narrower part of the structure, will have a flat design. If you were to observe the roof from this angle, you will only see the wall and the top section will be triangular and the fascia. The roof itself will not be visible. Common types of gable roof include Side, Crossed, Front and Dutch Gable. Concrete ties, clay tiles, iron sheets, Terra Cotta tiles are the common materials used in the construction.
Main reasons why consumers love it are the good looks, structural integrity, suitable for many property designs in the home, office, warehouse and more. It can be modified to incorporate an attic for extra living space or beauty. However, it can be ripped away by very strong winds if it isn’t installed properly. This is particularly likely to happen if you leave too much overhang on the sidewalls.
4. Hip Roof
This roof is a modified version of the gable type of roof. It features two sloping sides joined at the ridge, and the pitch angle is variable. However, the main difference is the sidewall, which lacks the top triangular wall section. Instead, you have the roof taking its place. When viewed from the side, you will be able to see the roof. In total, you will have four sloping sections as opposed to two sides in the gable. Hip roofs come as Simple Hip, Cross Hip, and Half Hip.
A Dutch gable blends a hip and gable roof. And To maximize space and beauty, you can include a dormer crow’s nest.
The roof is more tolerant to high winds since it does not have an overhang, looks more attractive, and is compatible with most properties. The drawback is that it takes up more material and space, and needs extra expertise. Nevertheless, qualified roofers in Birmingham should be able to deliver a good job.
5. Gambrel Roof
This is also a type of pitched roof that is still common in many homes. It brings out a unique and classic appeal but is little harder to install in comparison to the flat, gable or hip roof. The gable or hip has two sections (one of each side). However, a gambrel has four sections (2 per side). Due to this design, it creates more space. The Mansard roof, which is also known as French roof, is a modified version of the gambrel and incorporates windows and attics within the roof structure.
Advantages of this roof include elegant and extra living space. The downside is that it requires more expertise, takes up more space and material, and needs a stronger structural support.
Listed above are the 5 most popular roofing types in Birmingham. They can be seen in residential industrial as well as commercial properties. What may be suitable for another property may not be fit for your home, office, workshop, godown, and other places. And as you know, poor installation or wrong choice of materials may spell doom. The roof may not be able to handle the harsh climate or weather, may lose its elegance sooner rather than later, may start leaking, or may not be safe for people and the environment. Rather than taking chances, it is better to deal with credible and experienced roofers.
Birmingham Roofers is a leader when it comes to roofing installation, repairs, maintenance, and general consultation. The firm has for many years served the people in the region and beyond and is always at hand to offer you helping hand. They offer a wide array of services to suit any need and boasts of a highly skilled team of professionals. For more information about the different roofing in Birmingham or the company, visit their website at bmroofers.co.uk or give them a call.