All About Your Roof’s Structure From Your Denver Roofing Professionals


September 6, 2017

Installing and building a new roof is a huge process, and there are so many parts of a roof’s structure that you may not even realize. You need to understand how all of the elements of a roof combine to create a proper structure for your home. Depending on where you live and the type of climate your home endures will determine some of the pieces you’ll need in your roof. However, the basic principles are the same - outside walls, ceiling joists, and interior load bearing walls. It’s important to have a proper roof structure as a roof’s main job is to protect your home against water leaks and damage. A roof’s structure is much more than a layer of shingles!

Decking (Or Wood Sheathing)

First thing’s first: decking, or wood sheathing, creates a base for everything else to be laid out on. You’ll often find professionals using oriented strand board or plywood for the material, but you can also use polystyrene, concrete, and metal decking. Once you have your material selected, professionals will attach the decking using nails, thus creating the main foundation for your roof. Learn more about the types of plywood used for roofing.

Underlayment

After your sheathing is installed, a type of roofing underlayment will be put in place. Normally crafted out of felt, underlayment is laid below the shingles to create an extra waterproof barrier. Older buildings may not have underlayment, but it is now a requirement. Professionals will lay this on top of sheathing in horizontal strips.

Drip Edge or Flashing

Drip edge, or commonly known as flashing, is installed on roofs to prevent water from building up and guiding the water over the eaves and into the gutters. Created out of aluminum strips nailed onto the underlayment on the sides of the roof at edges and eaves. Along with your shingles, flashing will ensure your roof offers complete protection against harsh weather. Flashing is essential as any type of moisture can lead to the downfall or your roof and home’s structure. Flashing was created to prevent water leakage and extend the life of your roof investment.

Shingles

When someone thinks of a roof, they most likely only think about the visual aspect everyone sees: shingles. Now you know that there are other important features to roofing than purely shingle types, but they are definitely very important - and a very important decision to choose the right one. Most homeowners have no idea what shingles are even composed of, let alone the types that will fit for their home’s environment. There are so many varieties of shingle material out there, it’s important to read up on the three top types of roofing shingles.

We only covered four basic parts of a roof’s structure, but there is so much more to know. Read all about the roof’s structure and framing and be sure to consult your local roofing professional! Leave any type of roofing installation to your Denver roof professionals. Contact the Roof Dr. to install or upgrade your residential or commercial roof. Our expert staff has been servicing the Denver area for 45 years and would be glad to handle any of your roofing needs!
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