The Basic Components of a Roofing System

Without a sturdy roof, your entire home may become destroyed. It’s a good idea to have a basic understanding of the roofing system so that you can catch signs of possible damage or structural issues in order to avoid havoc later.

Has your roof experienced recent storm damage? Whatever the issue– a leak, damaged shingles, broken tiles– it’s important to address these issues as quickly as possible to save mental stress and thousands of dollars on roof repair. Let’s examine the roof components in this blog by Expert Level Remodeling so you can always be prepared.

Roof Basics

From framing to layering, here’s an overview of how your roof is constructed:

Structure

The roof structure consists of rafters, trusses, and other supporting elements. The roof structure is the skeleton or framework that gives a roof its strength and shape. There are three main types of roofing structures:

• Hip Design: This type of roof has a slope on all sides.

• Gable: Two slopes that meet at the roof’s peak to form a ridge.

• Flat: Low pitch, generally used for businesses.

Roof Decking

Roof decking, aka roof sheathing, is, in essence, the wooden boards that make up the foundation of your roof system. Decking can be described as the basic groundwork of your entire roof system that the rest of your roofing materials rely on.

In the past, it was common to use slats or boards measuring 1” x 4”, 1” x 6” or greater as sheathing. Today’s builders, however, typically use plywood particleboard that comes in 8’ x 4’ sheets.

Proper Drainage Layout Components

Your roof’s design, shape, or layout of the roofing system must determine the ability of the roof to shift water away from the house—which is the main assistant in keeping your roof, siding, and foundation from costly water damage repairs. There are certain materials needed that will provide proper water drainage.

In addition, metal roof flashing is installed at the roof’s edges to keep water from getting underneath your roofing components. Without it, your fascia board and roof decking will rot from extended exposure to water. 

It is probably one of the most important components because it prevents leaks in your home. These vulnerable areas include valleys and hips, where the roof meets siding, and around venting or skylights.

Underlayments

Underlayments are designed for use on residential roof decks as a water-resistant layer beneath roofing shingles.

Ice and Water Shield

The ice and water shield is a waterproof membrane that protects your roof from ice and water damage. Just like underlayment, its main purpose is to protect your roof decking from water getting under your roofing material.

Roof Covering

The roof covering consists of both the underlayment, which protects the sheathing from moisture. Popular roofing materials include asphalt shingles, cedar shake, slate, tile, and metal roofing. These sit on top of the underlayment.  

Your Twin Cities Contractor for Roofing Issues – Expert Level Remodeling!

From roof repair to replacement, our experienced staff will provide you assurance that your job detail will be completed efficiently and professionally. Check out our roofing gallery!

We can also inspect your gutters as well!

During our comprehensive inspections, our team will fill out an inspection report and take photographs of the damage to help you with insurance claims. Contact us today!