How2Day: Roofing Specs

Many styles of roofing specs exist. Jeremy Woodhouse/Photodisc/Getty Images
Roofing specifications may differ in many ways depending on the style of structure. Residential specs will vary from commercial specs in many instances, especially with regard to what roofing materials are used and how they are applied. Roofs can be built with a variety of materials including wood, metal or asphalt and the Asphalt Roofing Manufacturing Association is an example of a company which provides forums and informational resources for roof building amateurs and professionals.

Many varieties of shingles exist for roofs. According to ARMA, several forms of asphalt shingles--including laminated and interlocking options--are available for purchase. All asphalt shingle designs have their own specifications. Strip shingles are a prime example of roofing material commonly used on residential homes. These shingles are "three times as long as they are wide" and are designed for horizontal layering. Strip shingles are specifically constructed to overlap providing extra roofing protection and are marketed in both standard and metric measurements.

Metal roofing materials are commonly used for framing and joist support, according to Universal Steel. Metal roofs must meet specific state commercial and/or residential codes regarding wind and snow load resistance. Metal materials should be allowed the flexibility to adjust to atmospheric temperatures and pressures while remaining sound in the construction. Furthermore, all metal roofs should have water leakage prevention capabilities and water should not leak at a pressure beyond 6.24 psf.

Roofing fasteners are essential to proper roof construction and laborer safety. Roof Spec advises fasteners to extend through all roofing materials--including plywood--and penetrate into the underbelly of the roof. Specifically, anyone constructing a roof made of wood, asphalt, stone or tile is wise to use fasteners that drive through all materials by at least 3/4 inch.

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