Here at Greg the Roofer, we don't only care about installing the most quality roof possible - we care that you know what's being put on your roof every step of the way . When making the investment on a new roof it's important to know the components of the roof that's over your head and the functions they serve
HERE'S A BREAK DOWN OF A RESIDENTIAL ROOF
1. WHAT IS UNDERLAYMENT?
Underlayment, also known as “felt paper”, is installed onto the decking. Today, the best felt products are synthetic and provide better moisture resistance than felt paper. Proper underlayment creates an additional barrier against rain and wind along with the shingle layer by providing extra protection in case of broken or torn shingles.
2. WHAT IS A ICE AND WATER SHIELD?
Ice and water shield is an underlayment placed in valleys and around problem areas like chimneys. It is a reinforced fiberglass mat backed with a strong adhesive that secures it to the decking. The mat is self-sealing making it much more leak resistant than valley metal. In warmer climates, ice and water shield has replaced valley metal due to its moisture resistance.
3. WHAT IS DECKING?
Decking is the foundation of your roofing system and ties all of the structural parts of your roof together. The most commonly used decking materials for homes are oriented strand board (OSB) or plywood. The decking is attached with nails to the truss/rafters (the wooden structural framework that supports the outer layers of the roof).
4. WHAT ARE RIDGE VENT?
The ridge vent is installed at the peak of a sloped roof and allows warm air to escape from the attic. It acts in concert with the soffit vents to create a flow of air under the decking, prolonging the life of the shingles and the underlayments and increasing energy efficiency.
5. WHAT ARE SHINGLES?
Shingles are the outer shell of your roofing system. Shingle materials vary – the five main types are asphalt, wood, slate, metal, and tile. The most commonly used shingle material is a combination of fiberglass coated with asphalt and mineral granules, either in a one layer three-tab style or a laminated multi-layered architectural-style.
WHAT IS FLASHING?
Flashing (not pictured) refers to thin pieces of material such as aluminum or galvanized steel, strategically placed over joints in the roof and at areas where wall construction meets the roof plane. Its purpose is to help water flow off the roof reducing the saturation of the roof decking.