Of this we speak with the advantage of many years’ experience as practical roofers. The great difficulty metal roofers have to contend with is contraction and expansion of the metal under the changes of temperature. This cause alone calls for continued repairs in all flat lock or standing seam roofs, and the seams underneath are receptacles for any moisture which may condense on the underside of the metal. All such roofs first show decay in the cross seams, and this, while the body of the plates shows no sign of decay. Our shingles have no cross seam, and are sufficiently ventilated to prevent condensation of moisture; while a glance at their construction shows at once that the difficulty caused by contraction and expansion is successfully overcome. Our shingles do not require the skilled labor which is necessary to lay the flat lock or standing groove metal roofing, while the time required to lay a given surface is much less.
In estimating the difference of cost between the ordinary tin roofing and our shingle, a steep roof house alone must be taken in consideration, as our shingle is not proposed for a flat roof. (See “Comparative Cost,” [pages 26 and 27].)
ROOFING SUNDRIES.
We were the first to manufacture a full line of Valley, Hip and Ridge Coping, Gable, &c., to enable the builder or roofer to use them at a reasonable price, and are the only factory in America prepared to furnish such trimming in any quantity; and while they are not absolutely necessary, they greatly lessen the amount of labor and cost of laying, besides adding a finish to the roof not otherwise obtained, so that the saving in labor will pay the additional cost.
Design E.—Front and Side Elevation.
SIX-ROOM COTTAGE.
Estimated Cost, with Bath and Furnace, $2,000 to $2,300.
Use Broad-Rib Steel Plate with attic vents ([see page 73]) for roof, and 10 × 14 No. 2 Metal Shingles for gables.