Components Of A Roofing System For Your Residential Roof Replacement
When you need a residential roof replacement, you may know to contact your roofing contractor. You may also know you need to choose the material you want for the shingles. What you may not know are all the components that go into your roofing system. Here is a brief explanation of the components you may hear about and what you should know about each component before your roof replacement.
Roof Decking
The roof decking is also known to many people as the roof foundation. This decking is the basic ground for your roofing build. Every other part of the roofing system will be placed or built onto the decking. The decking can come in a sheet form or in planks. This entirely depends on the type of roofing material and layout you will use. For example, you may want sheet decking if you plan on having several vents across the roof. The material is generally an OSB material, otherwise known as compressed wood or plywood. Even if you already have decking in place, you may find that it needs replacing. In some cases, it may be best to replace the entire decking rather than bits and pieces.
Roof Underlayment
Your roof underlayment is a layer of protection against water damage. The underlayment is placed between your choice of roofing material, such as asphalt shingles, and the decking. The underlayment acts as not only a shield between water and the decking, but also as a barrier against snow, ice, and even damage from the wind. For example, if you have a strong storm that rips off the shingles, the underlayment will protect the decking from any potential weather conditions until the shingles are replaced.
Roofing Material
The roofing material consists of the material you want to use for your singles or exposed roofing portion. The most traditional roofing material is asphalt. However, you can choose wood shingles, metal roofing, clay roofing, or some other composite roofing material. If you are unsure what type of roofing material you want to use or what may be ideal for your environment, discuss the available options with your roofing contractor.
These are just a few of the components of a roofing system. If you have any questions about any aspect of the system, discuss your questions with your roofing contractor. When you are ready for a residential roof replacement, your contractor can schedule an inspection. Following the inspection, you can schedule the replacement and make any choices regarding the replacement you may have.