GAF Roofing was founded in 1886 as the Standard Paint Company, which produced a variety of paints and coatings. In 1892, the company expanded into roofing, and by 1912 it introduced easy-to-install, inexpensive and weatherproof individual asphalt shingles. In 1967, it introduced several innovative roofing products, including the GAF Timberline shingles. Today, the company offers a wide range of building materials, including roofing shingles, roofing systems and accessories.
CBUSA is proud to partner with GAF Roofing to provide superior roofing products to our members. GAF is the leading roofing manufacturer in North America, with 34 manufacturing operations across 26 locations in the U.S. – meeting clients with high-quality roofing products right where they need them. As a home builder, you can also take advantage of GAF’s contractor programs and resources.
GAF Roofing helps you protect what matters most to your clients. GAF is committed to making its products better, stronger, safer and more sustainable. The energy-efficient asphalt shingles reflect sunlight and reduce attic heat buildup. The company’s Advanced Protection Shingles use technology that maximizes durability and eliminates unnecessary materials. GAF High Definition Shingles create unique shadows and color patterns, giving the shingles depth and dimension.
5 common roofing mistakes to avoid
Along with using high-quality products, you should remember these common roofing mistakes so you can avoid them and provide your clients with a roof that lasts.
1. Inadequate ventilation
When building a roof, it’s important to ensure that air can escape from an attic because it helps to regulate temperature and moisture levels in the attic space. Without proper ventilation, moisture can condense on the underside of the roof and rafters, leading to mold growth and wood rot.
In the summer, poor ventilation can result in heat being trapped, leading to increased temperatures that can damage the roof and shingles. In the winter, poor ventilation can lead to the formation of ice dams, which cause water to back up under the shingles and into the house.
Lastly, proper ventilation can help improve overall energy efficiency by reducing the need for excessive heating and cooling, which lowers energy bills.
2. Incorrect installation
Proper installation is important when building a durable roof. Incorrect installation can result in leaks, poor ventilation, shingle and structural damage, reduced life span and warranty issues.
When shingles are not installed correctly, they can become damaged and can compromise the roof’s integrity. Improper installation of solar panels and skylights can also create vulnerabilities leading to leaks and water damage.
Sometimes problems come from using the wrong materials for hip and ridge caps. Their primary function is to cover the joints where two roof planes meet and to prevent water from seeping through. If they’re not installed properly, they can leave gaps or become dislodged, allowing water to penetrate the roof and cause damage.
3. Flashing mistakes
Some home builders believe that chimney flashings are installed for aesthetic purposes rather than functional ones. They may take shortcuts and use only caulk to seal the flashing. However, caulk can deteriorate over time and allow water to infiltrate the home. A good method can be step flashing or counter flashing, which are both effective for protecting chimneys, skylights and walls. Although this may demand more labor, it’s worth it to prevent extra expenses down the line.
Also, don’t use old flashing, even if it’s in good condition. Flashing should be replaced each time, and reusing old flashing can increase the possibility of a roof leak. For best results, color-match the roofing components and verify their compatibility with the other building materials to avoid corrosion.
4. Disregarding the slope of the roof
A common error is assuming that what works for one roof will work on all homes. That’s far from the truth. The slope of a roof is critical in directing water away from the roof and preventing water from pooling on the surface.
If the slope is too shallow, water can accumulate and lead to leaks. A flat roof with a shallow slope could collapse under heavy snow or water buildup. If a roof has a low slope, make sure you use the correct materials as well.
5. Lack of regular maintenance
Without proper maintenance, you risk shorter longevity of the roof. Over time, roofs can be exposed to a range of environmental factors such as wind, rain, snow and UV radiation. These elements can cause wear and tear on the roof, leading to leaks, cracks and damage to shingles.
Lack of regular maintenance can cause small issues to add up quickly, turning into bigger problems that can be expensive to repair. Regular maintenance can help to identify potential problems before they’re serious. Inspections can detect issues such as loose or missing shingles, damaged flashing or clogged gutters.
Ready to partner with GAF Roofing to provide your clients with a roof that stands strong over time?
The GAF Roofing program is available to all CBUSA members. Log in to the CBUSA Member Portal and navigate to Contracts Central to learn more about this partnership.