When a homeowner looks at a roof, they frequently simply consider the shingles. It makes sense, doesn’t it? From the street, you are able to see our shingles. A roofing system, however, is a lot more intricate. Every component of the system helps to safeguard your property from extreme weather. In order to complete a project successfully and have a great experience when working with a roofing contractor, it is essential to comprehend the many layers of a roofing system.
The following layers of your roof are listed from bottom to top, in a sequence of application:
DECKING
This roof layer, which is often constructed of plywood, is put in place over the framing in a standard roof installation. Connecting the trusses and joists creates structure. The underbelly of plywood decking is typically visible from the attic.
A WATER/ICE BARRIER
The roof deck is covered with this self-adhering, waterproof, and self-sealing material. It is made to guard against rain or wind-driven snow infiltration caused by ice formation.
FLASHING
This thin layer is utilized to divert water away from the intersection of the chimney, siding, and roof parts. Metals like galvanized steel, aluminum, or copper are frequently used in the manufacture of flashing. It needs to be checked frequently to ensure that your home has a waterproof seal because it frequently fails before the shingles do.
INITIAL STRIP
Every roof edge of your house is covered with these unique shingles. They are put in place before the underlayment and following roof decking. They serve to seal the edge of your roof, greatly enhancing its resistance to strong winds and rain brought on by the wind.
UNDERLAYMENT
This felt, also known as rubberized asphalt sheet, adds an additional layer of defense between your roof deck and your shingles. Enabling your shingles to lay flat and more even helps decrease blow-off. Additionally, it stops rain blown by the wind from penetrating your shingles and harming the structure of your roof or the interior of your house.
SHINGLES
Because it is the layer that is visible from the exterior of your home and has a significant aesthetic role, shingles are the component that most householders are familiar with. There are two main varieties of asphalt shingles: 3-tab and architectural. 3-tabs are less expensive, but they’re also less sturdy, less wind-resistant, and seem “flatter.” Nowadays, architectural shingles constitute the majority of roof replacements because they are only slightly more expensive than 3-tab and have significantly better specs and warranties.
RIDGE CAPITAL
However, standard shingles can’t adequately cover ridges, thus a sloped roof’s ridgeline is covered with this specialty extra-long shingle. It fits over the seam formed by these two edges, keeping snow and rain from getting inside the house while still enabling hot air to leave. By forming a firmly sealed junction along the two sides, ridge caps also give the roof its final aesthetic touch.
We believe you now have a better knowledge of how a roof is made up of its various levels. Make an appointment for a consult with one of our roofing professionals when it’s due your next roofing project.
If you’re in the Greater Northwest, we’d love to serve you! Our professional roof repair and replacement specialists serve all of NW Oregon & SW Washington.
You can call and get in touch with Western Pacific Roofing today at (503) 659-7663 for all your roofing needs.
