Research & Writing Assignment:
Valleys on a tile roof can be either open or closed. Unlike asphalt shingles, they cannot be continuous across the valley and they should all have metal flashing. While closed valleys are more aesthetically pleasing, they tend to trap debris causing deterioration. Open valleys allow debris to wash away much easier.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
I want to note before I continue that I had to borrow a photo from the internet because I am not in an area that uses Tile roofing so I am not able to go out and take a picture and inspect a roof at this time with a tile roof. I got the picture from https://renaissanceroofing.com/images/portfolio/clay/claytile4.jpg
In the photo we can see that the clay tile roof is in the process of being replaced. This is good considering the condition of the roof.
From examining the photo there are many tiles that are flaking and missing the bottom left corner. There is also biological growth on many of the clay tiles, after zooming in you can clearly see that some of the biological growth is both algae and lichen. Also while examining the photo it appears that there is an open valley and the material in the open valley does not appear to be metal, but without being able to physically see the open valley I can not say with confidence that the material is not metal. It also appears that the clay tiles are supported with both nose hooks, upon examination there are many nose hooks that are no longer in place.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
This is a photo of a clay tile roof defect. The actual defect is unknown, but the homeowner has covered this area with a tarp to prevent moisture intrusion. Damage to the wood trim under this area was noticed and further verifies a defect. Investigation by a roofing professional is recommended.
Research & Writing Assignment:
Concrete tiles are made from a variety of cement products and are cast in molds. Since concrete is porous, using a minimum of 30-pound roof underlayment is important in preventing moisture intrusion due to breakage or porosity/cracking problems due to poor manufacturing processes.
Research & Writing Assignment:
I chose to look at an illustration, the illustration I chose was of roof underlayment. The reason I chose this illustration is because after doing the course its clear that underlayment is crucial to the roof structure just as much as the material on top: ie: tile, shingles, metal. There are three different types of underlayment with asphalt-saturated felt being the more commonly used especially on residential homes.
There can be a miss conception that the underlayment is waterproof but in fact it is only water-resistant. Most common size (ie:thinckness) of underlayment is 15 pounds and 30 pounds, however 30 pounds is better at protecting the roof is it happens to have server weather.
When installing the tiles its good to have a batten and even counter-battens played on the roof to protect the underlayment from nail and screw holes, the less holes from attaching the tile the better it is for the underlayment and the protection of the roof.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
The most commonly used materials for roofing tiles are clay and concrete.In the past, tiles made from fiber cement were common. Roof tiles come in a large variety of sizes, styles, materials, and weights. Thicknesses ranges from about 3/8- of an inch to an inch and a half.
Research & Writing Assignment:
“Mastering Roof Inspections: Tile Roofs, Part 1”
Tiles come in a large variety of profiles and styles. Usually, profiles are categorized as low, medium and high. Low-profile tiles are flat or close to flat. Medium-profile tiles may be shallow clay-pan tiles or S-shaped tiles. High-profile tiles are typically barrel tiles.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
This roof has multiple missing shingles. Almost all of the shingles on the eve edge appear to be blown off. Some of the shingles that are missing are laying on the roof still. The shingles are also installed improperly. The shingles are hanging too far over the eve.
Research & Writing Assignment:
When dealing with clay or concrete tiles, it is important to ensure they are equipped with Birdstops. Medium and high profile barrel tiles not only need Birdstops to keep out any birds or pests, but also to prevent wind from entering into the starter course and causing damage. This is especially important for homes that are subject to hurricane force winds such as in the Miami-Dade area.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
The attached image is that of a roof that has no visible valley flashing present. In an obvious fashion, the lack of valley flashing is incorrect since any falling water, snow, etc, allows for water penetration and intrusion considering the fact that there is no valley flashing to redirect the running water from the roof.
Research & Writing Assignment:
After observing the Typical Kickout Flashing Detail illustration in the Illustration Gallery, I was reminded of the fact that kickout flashing is required along the edge of an eave so that water is properly directed towards the gutters and not off onto the exterior walls which can potentially cause structural damage.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
The roof for this home was made of concrete tile. The roof appeared newer and to have been professionally installed. The valley (area where two roof planes meet) was an “open” design, which is preferred for concrete. The material in the valley was proper metal which is best for a long roof life. At the time of the inspection no leaks or issues were obsessed with the roofing.
Research & Writing Assignment:
I read the article on tile roof inspections. One thing I found interesting was the importance of a “birdstop”. A birdstop is a plug put into the end cavity of overlapping clay tiles. This is done to prevent birds from making their nest inside the tile. Some manufacturers may offer birdstops engineered for the tiles, or mortar can be used to seal the tiles.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
The roof inspection was a visual examination only. The type of roofing is fiberglass shingles nailed with an intact adhesive strip. Ventilation was made by ridge vent and soffit. Gutters are only located in some areas. Drip is installed around the entire house.
Research & Writing Assignment:
One of the most important components of a tile roof system is the underlayment. Asphalt-saturated felt, rubberized asphalt and non-bitumen synthetic are the three most basic types, with asphalt-saturated felt being the most common type in residential construction. It is good to know what type of underlayment exist but you are not required to identify it.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
The front porch roof overlaps the main roof by 4 ft. The main flashing is aluminum and is installed in a way that directs water flow away from the union of the two surfaces. The fascia then overlaps the flashing to ensure that water flow does not creep in behind the flashing.
Research & Writing Assignment:
In the article “Roofing Underlayment Types” we learn that there are 2 main types of underlayment with the most common type being asphalt-saturated felt paper. This type is water resistant and comes in 15 and 30 lb options. Although the inspector will not be able to tell exactly what has been used they may be able to confirm its existence along roof edges.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
The roof was 13 years old and constructed using asphalt composite shingles. It was pitched 4:12. The roof was penetrated by passive roof vents, appliance vents, fuel burning appliance vents and a brick chimney. The chimney was properly flashed using step and counter flashing.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
The attached picture of a tile roof (slate)
The roof is in good condition for it’s age. No missing or loose tiles were evident were I was able to visually inspect
Do to the pitch, I was not able to walk the roof. Inspection was taken from the ground with high powered lenses and binoculars.
The photo is of the structures typical open valley roof flashing. The flashing does not have signs of excessive corrosion.
Drip edges have been installed. This will help to prevent possible water intrusion at the eaves.
Research & Writing Assignment:
The selected article was Mastering Roof Inspections: Slate Roofs, Part 2
The article covered the different slate available imported or domestic. Slate in the west coast and south west can be imported by China.
The lifespan of slate can vary greatly depending on the quarry and country produced.
The inspector should visually inspect for occlusions, color fading, and delamination.
Local contractors may help determine the origin.
Chinese slate installation on roofs should be avoided due to a lower durability particularly in colder climates.
