Toledo Roofers: Article About Asphalt Roofing Grades
The word "underlayments" is used to describe the second outer most layer of any roofing system. It's typically placed just under the roof covering and on top of the roofing deck, and it adds protection to the roofing deck while extending the life of the roof covering.
Question and answer courtesy of the Toledo roofers from Johnson Roofing: What is the built up roofing system?The built up roofing system is a roofing concept that was first introduced in the 1800s. It involves alternating layers of felt and waterproofing material to create a roof. The top layer is often covered with gravel or other rocks to protect the roofing system from the harmful effects of the sun. These rocks often serve as the anchor for the whole roof. This system can be used for residential homes and has become a popular option for businesses as well.
Asphalt roofing has been around since it was first used in the 1800s, claiming its place at the top of the list for most used material in the manufacture of roofing products. Roofing experts say that asphalt roofing alone is a $12 billion a year industry. Despite this, most homeowners don't know the different grades of asphalt and which grades are use to make which roofing materials. Knowing the difference can benefit homeowners when it comes time to hire Toledo roofers to install or repair their roofs.
The second biggest use for asphalt in the United States is roofing, which makes up 11 percent of the industry. This is such a large number because asphalt isn't only used in the making of shingles; it's also used in the making of some underlayments. Over the years, the technology that goes into making asphalt products has improved significantly, allowing manufacturers to increase the lifespan of asphalt products and make them more fire resistant.
There are three main asphalt roofing grades. The first is saturant grade asphalt, which comes either oxidized or non oxidized. This grade of asphalt is typically used in the making of organic felt shingles, roll roofing or built up roofing systems. Roll roofing is a popular choice among homeowners who are looking for a cheap alternative to shingles. Unfortunately, it doesn't work on all roof types, such as roofs that have high pitches.
The roofers from Johnson Roofing of Toledo would be happy to answer any questions you have about residential roofing or roof repair.
Homeowners should talk to their roofers to determine if roll roofing will work for them.
The second grade of asphalt used in roofing is coating grade asphalt. Unlike saturant grade asphalt, it can only be made from oxidized asphalt. This grade of asphalt is used in the making of a number of roofing materials, such as asphalt shingles, felt underlayments, polymer modified bitumen and roll roofing. Determining which grade of asphalt works best for a specific project is best left up to a roofing professional.
The third grade is known as mopping grade asphalt. This is another oxidized asphalt that is melted down and used in the construction of different roofing constructions such as the built up method. It is also used in modified bitumen systems.
The most common use for asphalt in roofing is in the making of asphalt shingles. Manufacturers make shingles available in one or three tabs. They typically have an organic mat made out of cellulose fibers, but they can also be made out of inorganic materials such as fiberglass. Although fiberglass isn't organic, it lasts a little longer than cellulose fibers, increasing the life of the asphalt shingles. Homeowners should ask their roofers which fiber base best fits their needs.
