What Makes Up Your Roof

Your roof like your hands, are a part of a system and each part is crucial to the others. A well working body, like any well oiled machine, a roof is a body and each part has a purpose. Each part, like any system, has a way of telling you it’s broken. As homeowners, we want to know how to prevent a roof system failure, big or small. Before we can do that, we need to know what a roofing system is. Let’s educate ourselves on the components of a roof. The parts of your roof required to to operate the way it’s intended, optimal coverage, protection and longevity.

Parts of a Roofing System

When you think of a roof, you probably picture the shingles, but there’s much more going on up there than you might realize! A roofing system is made up of many different components that work together to protect your home from the elements. Understanding these parts can help you communicate better with your roofing contractor and keep your roof in good shape for years to come. Let’s talk through the main components of your roofing system.

Roof Deck

The roof deck is the foundation of your roofing system. It’s typically made of plywood or another sturdy material and is attached to the frame of your house. The deck is what supports the weight of the other roofing materials. Without a solid deck, your roof wouldn’t have a strong foundation. It is also a common place to find hidden roof damage that has led to leaks and other roofing problems.

Underlayment

Beneath the shingles but above your roof deck, you’ll find the underlayment. This is a layer of water-resistant material (often felt or synthetic) that acts as a second barrier to protect your roof from moisture. If water gets past your shingles, the underlayment is there to catch it. It’s a critical layer for preventing leaks and water damage to the other layers of your home.

Shingles

shingle on roof replacement for American Eagle Home Improvement Minneapolis

Labor is a substantial part of the overall roofing cost and can vary based on your region, the complexity of the job, and the expertise of the contractor. Some contractors offer low-cost services, but this often comes with lower-quality work. A more experienced and skilled roofer might charge more, but the investment can pay off with a longer-lasting, higher-quality roof and fewer repairs in the long run.

The Details

Flashing

Flashing is a thin material, usually metal, installed in areas where the roof meets a wall, chimney, or other structural features. Its job is to direct water away from these vulnerable spots to prevent leaks. Without properly installed flashing, water can seep into the roof and cause serious damage over time.

Drip Edge

A drip edge is a metal strip placed along the edges of your roof. Its main job is to guide water off the roof and into the gutters, preventing it from dripping down the walls of your home. The drip edge also helps protect the edge of the roof deck from water damage.

Roof Vents

Proper ventilation is key to the health of your roof. Roof vents allow hot air and moisture to escape from your attic, which helps prevent heat buildup, mold growth, and ice dams in the winter. You’ll usually see vents at the ridge of the roof (ridge vents) or along the eaves.

Soffit

The soffit is the material that covers the underside of your roof’s overhang. It serves two purposes: giving your roof a finished look and allowing airflow into your attic. Proper ventilation helps prevent moisture buildup and avoid damage to the roof’s structure.

Fascia

The fascia is the board that runs along the edge of the roof, just under the shingles and at the front of the overhang. It’s where your gutters are typically attached. The fascia helps give your roof a finished look and provides some protection for the edge of the roof deck.

Gutters

Gutters are essential for directing rainwater away from your home’s foundation. They collect water from the roof and channel it to downspouts, which then direct the water to a safe distance away from your house. Without gutters, water could pool around your foundation, leading to potential structural damage.

Downspouts

Downspouts are the pipes that carry water from the gutters down to the ground. They ensure that water is directed away from the foundation, protecting your home from water damage and erosion. Like our cars and bodies, we want to know how to maintain each part to get the best and longest use out of them as possible. Your roofing system is no different.

Tl;DR: Each Part Makes One Whole System

Each part of your roofing system plays a crucial role in keeping your home safe and dry. Understanding these components can help you maintain your roof, identify potential problems early, and communicate more effectively with your roofing contractor. Now the next time you look at your roof, you’ll have a better idea of what’s keeping your home protected! American Eagle Home Improvement has been taking care of roofing systems for the last sixty years. Call today for a free estimate on your next project!