Do you need a water-shedding roof or a water-resistant one? What do those terms even mean? When planning a roof replacement project, homeowners can easily get confused by all the lingo. To make things clearer for you, Wilson Roofing, a top local roofing contractor, explains how water-shedding and water-resistant roofs differ.
Water-Shedding
A water-shedding roof, technically referred to as a hydrokinetic roof, is, in simple terms, a roof that allows water to run off. The system may include accouterments like gutters or similar channels to collect water and direct it safely away from the premises.
A water-shedding roof is usually sloped to leverage the natural effect of gravity. A slope ratio of at least 3:12 is typically effective for this purpose, but many roofs contain a slope of 4:12 or even 5:12.
Note that a roofing material that’s classified as water-shedding isn’t necessarily able to resist water. Water-shedding roofs usually require an underlayment or a moisture barrier, but some sloped metal roofs can do without them which makes them both water-shedding and water-resistant.
Water-Resistant
Water-resistant roofs are also called hydrostatic roofs. They are made from materials like rubber or metal that naturally block water. Low-slope or flat roofs are typically made of water-resistant materials.
Water-resistant roofing systems still need effective drainage to remove water. Standing water, if left too long, may damage even the most water-resistant material.
Learn why people in Austin, TX, trust Wilson Roofing. To get started, call us today at (512) 263-3157 or fill out our contact form.
