Low Sloped Roofs

 

During the inspection of your roof, we may discover a “Low-Slope” roof. This term applies to a roof with a pitch (angle) below 4/12. For roofs between 2/12 and 4/12, they require modified shingle installation methods and present special challenges.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Why do Low-Slope roofs need modified installation methods?

Because of their low pitch, these roofs tend to take more time shedding water. This means these roofs are especially prone to ice and snow build up during winter. They typically have small attic spaces that limit the amount of insulation and may be poorly ventilated. If all or part of the home has a “vaulted” or “cathedral” ceiling, there is no "true" attic in these areas. This severely restricts the amount of insulation that can be used and stresses the roof system.

What modified installation methods are used?

We upgrade the entire roofing system, including: the eave membrane; the underlayment; and, suggest a superior shingle product. The eave membrane, which is a 44” wide strip along the eaves and valleys, is upgraded to an “Ice & Water Shield” membrane. This product has a ‘peel & stick’ backing and adheres directly to the roof sheeting. The underlayment, which covers the rest of the roof, is upgraded to two layers of #15 Felt Paper, as opposed to the usual one layer. High quality, 3-Tab shingles are recommended for these applications instead of more popular “Architectural” shingles. However, Architectural shingles can sometimes be used on 3/12 pitch roofs.

Can I upgrade my roof venting at the time of installation?

Yes. Over vaulted areas, we suggest installing "Continuous Ridge Vents" since standard attic vents will only vent a limited space. Over areas that have a small attic, we also recommend using standard attic vents to meet building attic venting codes. For these vents to work effectively, you must ensure that a sufficient flow of air is coming in to the attic through your home's soffits. It is critical that the soffit venting is not blocked by insulation.

Will new shingles and upgraded venting completely eliminate any ice build- up during future winters?

 

No. While your new roof system will perform better, the design of your home may leave it prone to ice damming in severe winter conditions.  Ice dam problems can be identified by the formation of icicles hanging over your home's eaves troughs. If an ice dam becomes severe, melt water will back-up on the roof and enter the roof system. While the "Ice & Water Shield" membrane is an excellent defense against water entry, it is not foolproof. Often, the only solution is to have the roof cleared of snow to limit the formation of ice dams. Some homeowners have had success installing heat cables that melt channels in the ice dam and allow water to escape. Homeowners must monitor their roof for the formation of ice dams and then take steps to eliminate any risks.

 

Will the shingle manufacturer give me a full term warranty for the shingles you install?

 

Most do not. For shingles installed on a low-slope roof with less than a 3/12 pitch, the manufacturer will limit the warranty to 12 years. The exceptions are BP's "Yukon" SB 30 yr. shingle product and Malarkey's "Alaskan" 35 yr. shingle product. Given our area's cold climate, these are the shingles we recommend. As noted above, some architectural shingles offer a full warranty on a 3/12 pitch roof but most experienced roofers do not recommend using them.

 

Any further questions?  Please call 780.455.0008 or e-mail us. You can also request a free consultation or estimate by following this link, phoning, or e-mailing us. We hope to hear from you. Thank you!