Many homeowners that have new roofs installed don’t know the essential roofing materials that complete a roofing system, or how they function to create the best roofing system. Here is a simple guide to help you understand the purpose of each roofing component:
The Roof Deck
The roof deck is the material that is the first protective layer of a roof, acting as a structural support for all of the other materials. This is the first step in creating a roofing system so all material must be in good condition (replace all rotten decking, etc).
Leak Barrier / Underlayment
The leak barrier underlayment is applied next. This helps prevent wind-driven rain from leaking through your roof. It stretches from the eave to two feet past the heated wall of the home, and should also be applied to valleys, rake edges, hips and ridges, around dormers and chimneys and all vent pipes, and around skylights for extra protection.
Flashing
Roofing materials such as flashing help protect the joints on a roof that may be suspect to leaks. It helps protect the seam by directing water away from the structure rather than inside. Flashing serves as an extra layer of protection on vulnerable areas such as valleys, seams, and protrusions in the roof (chimney, vents, pipes, etc.).
Shingles
Asphalt shingles come in a variety of styles and appearances. The first row of shingles around the perimeter of your roof are Starter Strip Shingles. They are pre-cut and are made with strips of adhesive on the back to help prevent them from blowing off. Once the starter strip shingles are down, then shingle installation commences for the entire roof.
Ridge Cap Shingles
These shingles are fastened to the peaks – they help to protect the crown and hip areas of a roof.
Ridge Vents
Ridge vents are necessary to promote proper ventilation within your attic. Poor ventilation will cause premature deterioration to your roof as well as decrease the energy efficiency of your home.
Do you know what roofing materials are installed on your home?
The roofing materials form a comprehensive system that is essential in protecting your home. For more information on the materials right for your style and budget, contact our team at Midwest Roofing, Siding & Windows, serving Minnetonka, Plymouth, and the surrounding Twin Cities region.
[button link=”https://www.midwestplus.com/residential-roofing-contractor/” color=”default” size=”” type=”” shape=”” target=”_self” title=”” gradient_colors=”|” gradient_hover_colors=”|” accent_color=”” accent_hover_color=”” bevel_color=”” border_width=”1px” shadow=”” icon=”” icon_divider=”yes” icon_position=”left” modal=”” animation_type=”0″ animation_direction=”down” animation_speed=”0.1″ alignment=”left” class=”” id=””]Are you looking for a new roof?[/button]