Asphalt Roofing

• Trade Talk: Algae on Asphalt Shingles (Subscriber content)

  Algae on asphalt shingles

   

• Torchdown Roofing Basics (Subscriber content)

  A metal roofing contractor explains why he uses single-ply modified bitumen for low-slope applications and how he installs it safely.

   
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  Have Asphalt Shingles Improved?

  Eight years ago, JLC took a look at widespread reports of cracking and splitting in fiberglass-mat shingles. In this update, we report how shingle manufacturers have responded to complaints, and how new product standards are making it easier to judge w

   
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  Choosing Flexible Flashings

  There are more flexible flashings on the market than ever before, made from a variety of materials. We take a close look at what’s out there and provide pointers on choosing the right material for the job.

   

• Choosing a Sheathing Wrap (Subscriber content)

  We take a look at the key differences between housewrap, asphalt felt, and kraft building paper to help you make the right choice.

   

• Builder Time Bombs (Subscriber content)

  These common oversights will lead to early building failure.

   
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  Troubleshooting Roof Leaks: Problems & Solutions

  A small roof leak can create expensive problems. An inspector with years of experience surveys the trouble spots on both flat and steep roofs.

   

• Spray-Applied Foundation Waterproofing (Subscriber content)

  One way to ensure a dry basement is to coat the foundation with a waterproof membrane. We look at the available options and explain how to prepare for and apply them properly.

   
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  Reroofing over Asphalt Shingles

  Reroofing over old asphalt shingles is cheaper than a complete tear-off, but to look good and last long, the new shingles have to lie flat. A veteran roofer explains how to use special flashing, filler strips, and careful layout for a perfect job every time.

   

• Practical Engineering: Roadworks (Subscriber content)

  Building a durable driveway

   

• Housewrap vs. Felt (Subscriber content)

  We’ve fielded a lot of questions from builders who use housewrap air barriers, but wonder how these new mate-ials compare with felt paper when it comes to keeping water out of the walls. An expert in wood technology draws on his own research to explain how the properties of housewraps and felt...

   

• Practical Engineering: Reroofing Over Asphalt Shingles (Subscriber content)

  Rafter sizing chart for multiple shingle layers

   

• Membranes for Ceramic Tile (Subscriber content)

  Tile may shed water, but a tile job is not waterproof. A master tilesetter explains how to use trowel-applied and sheet membranes to protect against leaks.

   

• Leakproof Details for Shallow Roofs (Subscriber content)

  Conventional steep-slope roofing materials can be made watertight even on low slopes. Here are some details and techniques that work.

   

• Eight-Penny News

   

• Choosing an Asphalt Shingle: Organic vs. Fiberglass (Subscriber content)

  You can still reliably judge organic shingles by their weight. But fiberglass shingles are another story. Responding to problems in the field, the fiberglass shingle industry is conducting research and developing new standards for its products.

   

• Eight-Penny News

   

• Residential Tear-Offs (Subscriber content)

  Stripping roof shingles is no one’s idea of a good time. But this survey of roofing contractors reveals tools and techniques that make the work neater, faster, and safer.

   

• Inspecting Sloped Roofs (Subscriber content)

  A leading home inspector tells you how to identify and diagnose problems on asphalt, slate, wood, and tile roofs.

   

• New Twists in Tiles, Shakes, & Shingles (Subscriber content)

  NEB surveys the new species of concrete shakes, plastic slates, metal tiles, and other curious combinations that vie for upscale looks and modest price tags.