If you’re like most homeowners, you likely don’t give much attention to your roof, and that’s perfectly normal. You shouldn’t need to worry about it until there’s an issue or it’s time for a replacement or repairs. However, when it comes time to install a new roof, there are many important things to understand. A good place to begin is by learning about the key components that make up a roof.
For over 25 years, Certa Roofing has been helping homeowners in every aspect of roof repairs or replacement. Drawing from this experience, I’ll walk you through the key components of your roof system.
Here are the seven main components of a residential roof system and their specific purposes.
1. Roof decking/Sheathing
Roof decking, also known as roof sheathing, consists of wooden boards (typically planks or plywood) that form the foundation of your roofing system. It provides the structural base on which the rest of the roof is built
The following are two types of roof decking:
Plank Decking
Plank decking is made of long, rectangular wooden boards, typically available in two sizes: 1×6 and 1×8, offering durability and versatility.
Sheet decking
Sheet decking, commonly referred to as sheathing, is made up of flat wooden panels, usually crafted from plywood or oriented strand board (OSB).
Oriented Strand Board (OSB) is made from wood chips & strips that are compressed together to create a flat sheet, typically 7/16 inches thick. Plywood, on the other hand, is available in various thicknesses, including ⅜ inch, ½ inch, ⅝ inch, and ¾ inch, depending on the spacing of the rafters.
If the decking of your roof is damaged or unable to support a new roof, it will need to be replaced. However, your roofing contractor won’t be able to determine the extent of the replacement needed until the old roof is removed during the replacement process.
2. Drip edge
It is a metal flashing that is placed along the edges of your roof, including the eaves and rakes. Its purpose is to prevent water from seeping underneath your roofing materials. Without a drip edge, your fascia board and roof decking can suffer from rot due to prolonged exposure to water.
Installing drip edges along the rakes & eaves of your roof is required by building codes. Not only is it necessary for your home to pass inspection, but it also needs to be installed correctly to ensure proper functionality.
Unfortunately, many roofs lack a drip edge because some roofing contractors skip this important component to reduce costs or due to negligence. If your roofing estimate doesn’t include a specific mention of drip edge, it’s essential to address this with your contractor or consider finding a different roofing professional.
3. Roof underlayment
Roof underlayment is a material placed between your roof decking and the roofing material (such as asphalt shingles) to provide additional protection against the elements. If water manages to get beneath your roofing materials, the underlayment acts as a barrier to protect your roof decking.
Following are two main types of underlayment:
Felt Underlayment
Used in roofing for many years, comes in 15-pound and 30-pound rolls. The 30-pound version is thicker and stronger than the 15-pound. Both options provide reliable protection.
Synthetic Underlayment ( Recommended)
Synthetic underlayment is made from woven or spun polyethylene or polypropylene. It is more durable than felt underlayment, holds nails more securely, and offers better water resistance.
4. Ice & water shield
It’s a waterproof membrane that protects your roof from water & ice damage. Similar to underlayment, its primary function is to safeguard your roof decking from water seeping underneath your roofing materials.
Unlike underlayment, ice and water shields are specifically installed in certain vulnerable areas that require extra protection. These areas include roof valleys, around roof penetrations, and on roofs with a slope of 2/12, 3/12, or 4/12.
5. Shingles
The most significant aspect of your residential roof system is the roofing material you select. Asphalt shingles are one of the most popular types of residential roofing materials. It’s important to understand that the choice of roofing material significantly affects the appearance, cost, lifespan, and warranty options of a new roof.
Therefore, choosing the right roofing material is supremely significant.
6. Ridge Cap Shingle
These are special shingles placed on top of the roof at the ridge, where two roof planes meet. Ridge cap shingles cover and protect the ridge cap itself while maintaining the roof’s ventilation system. They help seal the top of the roof and add an extra layer of protection from water and debris.
7. Ridge cap
Ridge capping is placed at the highest point where two slopes of a roof meet. Regardless of the roofing material you use, ridge capping is essential to ensure that the roof is sealed at the top in the right way.
Ridge capping is pre-bent to fit perfectly along the ridge of a roof. Unfortunately, some roofing contractors may skip using ridge capping to reduce costs during an asphalt roof replacement. This can lead to roof leaks so we don’t recommend it.
Conclusion
Now, you are familiar with the seven main components of a residential roof system. This article has covered the basics of what constitutes a roof. However, there is still more to learn about your roof and the roof replacement process. Remember, choosing the right roofing material is essential.
Since 1999, our team at Certa Roofing has been delivering high-quality roof repair & replacement services to thousands of homeowners in Michigan. Whatever your roofing requirements may be, you can trust us to ensure you never have to worry about your roof again.
Visit our Roof Replacement Services page to learn more and see why you can trust Certa Roofing as your reliable contractor!
