Important Components Of A Roofing System
6 Main Components Of Your Fort Worth, TX, Roofing System
Learn The Parts Of Your Roofing System To Stay Informed And Prevent Avoidable Damage
Many Fort Worth, TX, homeowners may know basic roofing terms, such as shingles and decking, but only some understand other roofing parts and the mechanisms that go into protecting and insulating your home.
Knowing essential roofing components helps you better understand your home and how it works together. Staying informed also helps you spot possible damages before they become more significant, saving you thousands of dollars.
At First Texas Roofing, we want our customers to be knowledgeable, making possible roofing repairs and replacements much more manageable and smoother. Here are 6 key components to know when discussing roofing systems.
1. Roof Decking
Roof decking (also sometimes called sheathing) is the foundation of your whole roofing system, as it structurally divides your roof from the rest of your home. It lays on top of your attic’s rafters and provides the base for the rest of your roofing system, most importantly, the shingles.
Roof decking is usually sold as planks or sheets, with most newer homes being made with sheets. Plank decking consists of long, rectangular pieces of wood, measuring either 1×6 or 1×8. Newer home construction typically uses sheet roof decking, which is available either as plywood or plywood-composite.
Plywood-composite is also known as OSB (oriented strand board) and is made up of wood scraps compressed together by waterproof resin. It’s a cheaper option but not as durable as plywood.
2. Underlayment
Roofing underlayment is material laid on top of your decking and under the shingles or other roof material, providing extra protection and waterproofing. It’s usually made of either felt or synthetic material.
Though felt underlayment has been around longer, synthetic underlayment is the way of the future and is more commonly used today. It’s more durable and consists of woven polyethylene or polypropylene, forming a stronger and more water-repellent material.
3. Flashing
Flashing is the flat sheets of metal that are around fixtures that extend from your roof, such as vents and chimneys. Flashing connects the two surfaces, covering the gaps and preventing leaks from penetrating through.
Flashing is usually made of steel, aluminum, and copper, with steel being the most universally used material. There are different types of flashing, such as kickout, base, counter, step, and continuous, each serving a different purpose.
4. Drip Edge
A drip edge is flashing installed along the edges of your roof that helps distribute water away from your home. It overhangs your roof’s edge to allow water to flow outwards. Though drip edges are required by code, water can easily seep into your home without them.
Your drip edges must be installed correctly and in working condition to prevent wood rot, moisture build-up, and other issues affecting your fascia boards (the wooden framing outlining your home).
5. Shingles And Roof Covering
Most residential roofs are covered with shingles, which are overlapping pieces of material that help protect your home in many ways. They overlap and interconnect to help prevent leakage and to distribute water away from your home.
Shingles are available in many different materials, such as asphalt, wood, slate, metal, and more. Asphalt shingles are the most popular material used; they utilize granules to protect your home from outdoor elements, like sunlight, water, snow, and ice.
6. Roof Ridge
The ridge is where two pieces on either side of your roof meet at the top. It runs the length of your roof and is topped with a ridge cap that seals the two sides together. The ridge cap prevents leaks from getting in through the gap that’s created where the two pieces meet.
Many homes also have a ridge vent, which extends the length of your roof and acts as an exhaust for your attic. It helps with ventilation and helps to prevent moisture build-up and mold in your attic.
Our Fort Worth, TX, Roofing Company Is Here For Your Roof Repairs Or Replacements
Now that you know your basic roofing components, you can get started on your next Fort Worth, TX, roofing project! At First Texas Roofing, we’re ready to help complete your next roof replacement or repair any damages. For over 15 years, we’ve provided quality service and reliable roofs, giving our customers peace of mind.
We understand roof issues can be scary, and damage can be overwhelming, which is why we work directly with insurance companies ourselves, ensuring you get the most out of your claims. We are fully licensed, bonded, and certified, using the finest roofing products with the best warranties.
Call us today at (817) 821-0323 or contact us to set up a free roofing estimate!