3 Things Homeowners Should Know About Their Roof Decking

While you don’t have to know everything about your roofing system, it helps to have basic knowledge regarding the major components that make up the roof above your head. In this article, CQ Construction & Roofing, one of the leading roofing contractors in Florida, talks about three important things you need to know about your roof decking.

1. Function

The roof decking, also known as the roof sheathing, is basically a flat, sturdy surface typically made of plywood that acts as the foundation for the layers of underlayment and roofing shingles. The sheathing also connects your roof to the frame of your house. As for its function, roof decking actually serves several purposes:

• Shingle support – if you’ve chosen a shingle roofing system, chances are your roof repairs contractor has informed you that asphalt shingles can weigh a lot. The sheathing helps support all that weight on the roof.
• Fire resistance – the plywood material itself isn’t fire-resistant, but flame retardants are often sprayed on the decking to provide an extra line of defense in case of accidents.
• Moisture protection – while the decking isn’t the primary line of defense against water damage, it provides an extra layer of protection.

2. Different Types

There’s more than one type of sheathing, such as the plank, step and plywood sheathing. They are used depending on the type of roofing system and the needs of a specific roof.

3. Replacement

A roof replacement doesn’t automatically entail a decking replacement. If your deck is in good condition, it doesn’t need to be replaced. However, if a sheathing exhibits signs of rot or if it bends when walked on, the affected area will be replaced. Your roofer can assess the deck condition via the attic or once the shingle layers are removed.

CQ Construction & Roofing offers roof inspection services to help keep your roofing system in good condition. Call us today at (850) 683-4169 for a free estimate. We serve Crestview, FL.