Roof replacement is essential for maintaining your home’s aesthetic appeal and structural integrity. This project, however, requires coordination and attention to detail. Your roofing contractor must follow all building regulations related to roofing.
These regulations ensure that roofs are built safely and meet quality standards. You’re guaranteed a more durable and long-lasting roof when your roofer follows these codes.
Why Building Regulations Are Important For Your Roof Replacement
Massachusetts requires all roofing contractors to pull permits and comply with building regulations when working on major exterior projects, such as roof replacements. These regulations dictate various aspects of the roof replacement project, including roofing materials, ventilation, measurements, and contractor credentials.
Here is a summary of roofing rules and regulations you need to know when hiring a roofing contractor for your roof replacement.
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles must be installed on sloping roofs. The slope (or pitch) of your roof is the steepness expressed as a ratio of the vertical rise to the horizontal run. For instance, a roof that rises 4 inches for every 12 feet is said to have a 4:12 pitch. The roof slope for asphalt shingles should be 2:12 or greater.
Stainless steel, galvanized steel, copper, or aluminum nails are permitted as shingle fasteners. Also, ice protection rules for asphalt shingles require two layers of underlayment to adhere to Massachusetts standards.
Ventilation
One of the most important Massachusetts roofing requirements is proper ventilation. Roofing codes require proper and adequate attic ventilation to minimize fire risks. There are specific measurements for the size of the ventilation opening.
Vents must be protected against exposure to the elements.
Weather Protection
A roof must have proper drainage to help remove rainwater from the roof within 48 hours. Also, there are regulations for gutters to ensure they safely drain water away from the roof and the home.
Massachusetts has wind-resistant requirements for each type of roof, including clay tiles, asphalt shingles, and concrete tiles.
Roofing Contractor Requirements
To provide residential roofing services in Massachusetts, a roofing contractor must meet specific training and qualification standards. On the basic level, contractors must pass a 50-question test that covers a range of roofing issues, such as materials, codes, building practices, fire protection, doors and windows, and mechanical systems.
Work with a certified roofing contractor to ensure your roof replacement project is fully compliant with all building codes. A contractor with the proper credentials and experience will ensure your project meets all standards for residential roofing.
The Benefits of Building Codes and Regulations for Your Roof Replacement
Here’s a rundown of the benefits of building codes and regulations for your roof replacement:
- Ensure Safety
If your roof isn’t up to code, it can become a danger to you and your family. A weak deck, for example, could collapse under the weight of roofing material, causing serious or fatal injuries. Improperly secured coverings can be blown off during a storm, injuring people and exposing your home to costly damage.
Having your roofer follow the code ensures your new roof doesn’t become a hazard to you, your family, and the workers. It also helps maintain the condition and structural integrity of your home.
- Prevent Leaks and Water Damage
Typically, leaks and water damages are a result of poor workmanship or poor-quality materials. These issues tend to create more significant problems over time and, in some cases, lead to the need for premature replacement. Simply put, a roof not built to code will cost you more in the long run.
With the codes in place, you can rest assured that your roof will withstand harsh weather for many years and keep the elements out of your living space.
- Avoid Costly Fines
Cutting corners in the area of building regulations can attract hefty fines. Receiving a citation could mean attending multiple court hearings and paying high fees.
Trust Our Team to Follow All Building Regulations
At O’LYN Roofing, we pride ourselves on being a name you can trust for all your roofing needs in Norwood, MA. We are experts in roofing and have an in-depth understanding of all federal, state, and local building codes that apply to roofing projects. We have $1,000,000 in general liability insurance. We also secure other permits for installing ice melt systems, like electrical or scaffolding, for chimney work. We are licensed and certified in all trades that your roof may require! We adhere to these regulations to ensure the success and compliance of your project. Contact us today.
