When it comes to knowing the best roofing tips, the first place to start is knowing the key components of your roof. So here are all the most important parts that make up any roof, understanding how each one plays a role in your roofing Des Moines will help you be more effective in making necessary inspections and repairs.
Sheathing
Also called decking. This is composed of a ½ inch plywood and its main purpose is to shut and reinforce the structural integrity of the roof. It’s also the main nail bed for installing the shingles that will be laid over it.
Shingles
Your roofing shingles can be made of fiberglass and asphalt or other materials and they are designed to safeguard the roof from the elements. They can also give the home personality.
Fascia
These are the boards that run along the edge of the roof.
Attic
This is the area inside the house that is located directly beneath the roof. It must have proper air flow to protect your roofing and all of its major components from heating up in the summer. This warm air can bring moisture, which is bad.
Saddle
This is designed to divert precipitation from the chimney and any other items that are projecting up from the exterior of the roof. When water gets near the seams of these items, that water can seep in through cracks and gaps that might develop over time.
Joint Covers
These are also known as flashing, which is a material that also prevents water from getting close to any openings in the roof where water can seep in from a storm. The flashing is usually made of plastic, aluminum, or galvanized steel because these materials are all resistant to moisture. You will typically install joint covers near the base of a chimney, a vent, and in areas where water can accumulate.
Ridge
This is the horizontal edge along the very top of the roof. If this isn’t perfectly level, you may have an issue that needs to be addressed.
Underlay Membrane
Another protecting layer that keeps the shingles safe from resin that can seep out from the wood decking. It also protects the decking itself from the harsh impacts of Mother Nature like rain, snow, and ice.
Eaves Membrane
This is another layer placed beneath your shingles to keep water from filtering into the roof as a result of ice. When the ice builds up it will inevitably melt and that can cause an influx of moisture that could result in serious water damage.
Roof Vents
These are critical for your attic to have proper sufficient ventilation. These are typically made from plastic or metal and look like your typical vent, with an opening and movable slat. The best vents to install are those that can take in air from four open sides and are placed in a position that allows for the openings to be located above the roof. That way plenty of air can get inside.
