If you’re looking for a material to complete a roofing project, one budget-friendly alternative to shingles is a roll roof.
Roll roofing material is so common that many DIY roofers opt for it because it is easier to install without the help of a professional than shingles.
However, before you use asphalt rolling for your roof, you should understand exactly what this material is.
What are Roll Roofing Materials?
A flat roof shingle roll is a type of roofing material that comes in rolls and is used for low-slope roofs.
It is also known as MSR or roll roofing and is available in various styles, colors, and textures.
One MSR roofing roll is usually about 36 feet long by 36 inches wide and provides 100 square feet of roofing material.
Compared to asphalt shingles, it is thinner, more prominent, and cheaper. At the same time, it is also less durable.
Shingles are also far less likely to tear or crack.
Any stress applied to the roof is distributed across the individual shingles instead of a single roll.
This material is not just budget-friendly but is often the cheapest roofing material.
This is because not only is the material cheap, but it is also far easier to install on your own compared to asphalt, wood shingles, or a metal roof, which means your labor cost might be free.
While it is possible to find information on how to install MSR roll roofing, it is generally recommended to have it installed by a professional roofer.
A professional roofer has the experience and expertise to ensure the installation is done correctly and safely.
Incorrect installation can result in leaks and other issues that can be costly to repair.
What is Asphalt Roll Roofing?
Asphalt rolling is an excellent option for low-incline roofs and flat roofs.
It is made of asphalt-impregnated fiberglass or cotton fabric, then coated with adhesive asphalt.
The roofing is rolled out in large rolls and installed on the roof deck.
It can be used on low-slope roofs and is famous for commercial buildings.
When installing asphalt roofing systems, it is crucial to ensure the roof deck is clean and dry.
This is because the adhesive asphalt will stick better to a clean surface.
The roofing can be installed in one or two layers depending on the desired thickness.
Sealing the seams is also essential using a roll roofing application sealant.
There are many benefits to using asphalt roofing. It is a very affordable option, and it is easy to install. It also lasts for many years, making it a cost-effective choice in the long run.
Asphalt rolls are also fire-resistant and can withstand extreme weather conditions.
Where to Use Rolled Roofing
This material is rarely used for residential structures and homes. Instead, it is a popular material for functional structures and buildings.
These include shops, barns, garages, children’s treehouses, work sheds, and more.
An important thing to remember when deciding whether or not to use this material in the shape of your roof.
It is most popular (and functional) on low- slopes roofs.
There are several advantages of this material. These include:
Rolled Roofing Cost
Installing a new roof is never a cheap proposition, but there are ways to reduce costs. An affordable roof option is a rolled roofing installation.
The cost of roll roofing will depend on the size of your roof, the pitch of your roof, the material you choose, and the contractor you hire.
The average cost to install rolled roofing is:
- Price per square (a square is equal to 100 square feet): $30-$100
- Average total cost: $1,500-$3,000
- Removal and disposal: $2 per square foot
Roll roofing costs less than traditional shingles, making it a good option for budget-minded homeowners.
Installing Roll Roofing vs. Asphalt Shingles
Learning how to lay roll roofing is easy. Unlike asphalt shingles, it goes down quickly and must be applied one at a time.
When installing roll roofing, starting with a clean surface is essential. If you’re working on an existing roof, remove any old roofing material first.
You’ll also need to purchase some roofing cement and rolled roofing.
Start measuring the surface you’re working on to install the roll roofing. Cut the rolled roofing to fit, adding a few inches for overlap.
Applying rolled roofing to the surface is completed first.
Then secure the roll roofing with roofing nails, keeping it straight. Spread roofing cement to the edges of each roll and overlap it with the next one.
When choosing between roll roofing and asphalt shingles, it’s important to consider a few main differences.
Roll roofing is cheaper than asphalt shingles and does not require as much labor for installation.
However, asphalt shingles provide more protection from water damage.
Of course, many people are not interested in installing their roofs for good reasons.
Call us if you don’t want to learn roll roofing installation instructions and instead want to relax and leave the work to roofing professionals like DKG.
Rolled Asphalt Roofing Life Expectancy
Asphalt roof roofing life expectancy depends on several factors, including how installed, sustained, and facing different weather conditions, like hail.
In general, the longer the structure’s lifespan, the higher the value it will add to the system.
Several types of roofing materials can be used to create rolled roofs, and how they are constructed affects their lifespan, so be careful when choosing the brand.
Final Thoughts About Roll Roofing
Roll roofing is a good option for individuals who want to work on their roofs.
However, not everyone is comfortable with going the DIY route.
Many people are confused about which type of roof is the best option for their homes.
Discover the efficiency and affordability of rolled roofing systems homeowners are raving about – a seamless solution for protecting your home from the elements.
If you have any questions or concerns about roofing or are looking for a professional to help you with your roof, contact DKG Roofing at (940) 497-2833.
We’d love to answer any questions and help you choose suitable roofing materials to meet your needs.
We work through the North Texas area, including Denton, Dallas, and Lake Dallas.
