I have roofed for many years, mainly in California. But roofing in Salt Lake City isn't much different. Roofs are roofs but pitch and materials are two different things. One thing Salt Lake City doesn't have is flat roofing; except on commercial buildings, but flat roofing won't be found much in residential areas. The main reason for that is because of the weather and more importantly the snow. Flat roofing can't support the heavy snow falls in Salt Lake City and other parts of Utah. Roofing contractors know that. Heavy snows can and do collapse many roofs regardless of roofing products or materials. Building the roof correctly for the right climate is crucial.
The other big difference in roofing between Utah and California is pitched roofing. Pitched roofing means the angle and slop of the roof. There are rules and limits to how low the pitch can be. Again, it's because of heavy snow falls. Roof building in Utah requires steep pitched roofing. The heavy snows and snow melts must be able to slide off the roof to prevent the building structure from collapsing. This seems like a simple thing but the average person doesn't realize how heavy snow is because when we look at it individually it's light and fluffy. But a wet snow can weigh tons. This is one reason why avalanches are so dangerous, but that's another article. The main point I want to make in this paragraph is that pitched roofing is vital for a roofing contractor to understand especially in different weather environments.
Pitched roofing is also a factor when considering roof repairs. Some roof pitches are very steep and pretty scarey to maneuver around on. Generally, boards have to be tacked in place to allow for roofers access to all parts of the roofs. Some roofers use heavy cables and safety straps when maneuvering on pitched roofing. I've almost fallen from very pitched roofing buildings. From that point on, I never worked another high pitched roofing job. By the way, leave those jobs to roofing contractors. Amateurs kill themselves every year trying to make repairs on high pitched roofing.
Another very important thing to consider when roofing is materials and products to use. Roofing contractors are trained to know what are the best roofing products and materials to use. But it's not only the best product or material it's also cosmetics. More and more people are going for the cosmetic look. Roofing contractors know that first they must consider which roofing materials are allowed or banned in certain areas. For example, most high risk fire areas don't allow or suggest home owners stay away from heavy shake or wood roofing products and materials. One simple spark or burning amber could destroy your whole house. Unfortunately, many people love the look of heavy shake wood roofing materials and many of them pay the price, not just in fire damage but also in cost.
Many contractors today would suggest asphalt or fiber glass roofing materials or products. They last longer and their much easier to apply. Nowadays, asphalt roofing products are manufactured to give a much more expensive look because many homeowners like their roofs to look good. It adds a cosmetic value to the home.
My experience is with asphalt roofing products, but be aware and forewarned that these roofing products can get very hot and mailable in hot weather. You can actually get burned handling hot asphalt shingles. One also needs to be very careful when walking on hot asphalt shingle roofing materials. They can tear and smudge very easily.
Number one recommendation: Get a roofing contractor. Don't do it yourself.
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