A self-adhered roofing system is one of the most cost-effective, environmentally friendly roofing options on the market today. If you’re looking for a mess-free roofing system that performs well in cold weather, this might be the system for you. However, like any major home investment, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons of self-adhered roofing.
Pros and Cons of Self-Adhered Roofing
What Is Self-Adhered Roofing?
Self-adhering roofing systems contain a few components. First, a contractor will place a self-adhering ply base under a self-adhering roofing membrane. The contractor will then attach the roofing system directly to the roof without fasteners, a feature that allows for easy installation with very little mess. Self-adhered roofing systems also offer aesthetic variety, with many different types available depending on your desired aesthetic.
Pro: Environmentally Friendly
One of the most exciting features of self-adhered roofing is the fact that it’s environmentally friendly. Self-adhering roofs are “green” for a few reasons. First, they don’t contain volatile organic compounds. Next, this type of roofing is typically recyclable, which means you don’t have to leave your roof at the dump when it’s reached the end of its lifespan. In addition, several self-adhered roofing varieties have been approved by ENERGY STAR®, a joint program of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Department of Energy (DOE). This program encourages consumers to adopt energy-efficient practices – and qualifying means you may be eligible for an energy tax credit.
Pro: No Mess
Self-adhered roofing systems are incredibly easy to install, which means no mess for your contractor – and lower installation costs for you. Self-adhered roofing doesn’t require torches or steaming-hot asphalt, which spares your contractor from exposure to harmful and irritating fumes. Installing a self-adhering roof also requires minimal equipment, which means a tidier work environment for contractors and less mess around your home or business. Overall, self-adhering roofing systems are less labor-intensive than other roofing systems. That saves you a significant amount of money and time.
Pro: Cost-Effective
Self-adhered roofing systems are some of the most affordable roofing systems on the market. However, the financial benefits don’t end with the initial price tag. Self-adhered roofing stands up well to extreme weather conditions, including very hot and cold temperatures. This type of roofing won’t retain extreme heat or cold, which gives your heating and air conditioning systems a break. That means less money spent on utilities for you.
Con: Requires Multiple Coatings
Self-adhered roofing is easy to apply, but it does require multiple coatings before application is complete. The self-adhered roofing application process involves three steps:
- First, the contractor rolls the initial roofing membrane over a substrate, allowing it to relax.
- The membrane sheets are installed after the membrane is rolled out. This is accomplished by removing a separator sheet from the membrane roll as the membrane adheres to the substrate.
- The contractor then applies several more coatings, overlapping them at the seams to ensure continuity.
This might not seem like a major inconvenience, but it is worth considering before deciding on self-adhered roofing.
Now that we’ve weighed the pros and cons of self-adhered roofing, it’s clear to see that the pros outweigh the cons. However, it’s still important to work with a professional. An expert can determine if self-adhered roofing is right for your home or business.
Do you have any questions about the pros and cons of self-adhered roofing? If you live in southwest Missouri, contact Taylor-Made Roofing for help. With over 20 years of experience in residential and commercial roofing, Taylor-Made Roofing is a company that you can trust with all of your roofing needs. Our family-owned business offers quality services, a reassuring warranty, and free estimates. For more information, please contact us online. We look forward to hearing from you!