New construction roofing in Holmes Beach, FL

Shingle and metal roofs can meet the code's deck-drying requirement in any of three ways. You can cover the whole deck with self-adhering polymer-modified bitumen, tape each deck joint with a 3 3/4-inch membrane strip before an approved underlayment, or install two layers of felt-type underlayment fastened 12 inches on center in the field and 6 inches at laps.

Install drip edge along the eaves and gables, placed on top of the underlayment. It is fastened no more than 12 inches on center, and tighter at 4 inches where the design wind speed is 110 mph or more or the mean roof height exceeds 33 feet. Roof sheathing is nailed with ring-shank nails, and tile goes only over solid sheathing.

The code lists the inspections in order: framing after the roof, framing and bracing are in place, then sheathing, then roofing for dry-in, insulation, roof coverings and flashing, and finally the final inspection. Sheathing may be inspected as part of a dry-in inspection or separately once all roof sheathing and fasteners are complete. Schedule the roofing crew to finish before the roof inspection is called.

A permit lapses if work hasn't begun within 6 months of issuance, or if work halts for a 6-month stretch. Work keeps its active status only while a passed inspection occurs at least once every 180 days. Plan the roof so the job keeps moving between inspections.

Who may install the roof depends on the material. A general contractor may self-perform asphalt shingles on its own new building, but tile, metal and membrane work goes to a certified or registered roofing contractor. Ask for that certificate number before work begins.