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A Quick Guide To Your Shingle Roof

A Quick Guide To Your Shingle Roof

If you are a homeowner, then odds are good that your home boasts a shingle roof. Shingle roofing has been an extremely popular roofing choice for years. Asphalt shingles, in particular, are well-liked for their affordability, durability, and relatively simple installation process. If your home has an asphalt shingle roofing system, it will be helpful for you to understand the components that make up the roof as a whole. This can allow you to catch damages early on and notice any signs of trouble. As your local Tuscaloosa roofer, we can assist you with keeping your shingle roof in tip-top shape. Check out the following components that make up your roofing system.

The Bottom Layer

Holding up all your shingles are a few key components of your roofing system. Each one of these pieces is vital to the integrity of the structure as a whole. Keeping these areas protected is key to ensuring they remain undamaged by the weather.

Roof Structure
The rafters and trusses that make up your actual roof structure are the base of everything else. These beams need to be solid and undamaged in order to hold up the weight of the rest of your roofing system.

Decking
The decking or sheathing is what comes next. This decking is usually made with wood and is attached to your roof’s structure to act as the foundation for the rest of your roofing materials.

Underlayment
Next comes your roof’s underlayment. This protective material is usually a durable type of paper that is then saturated with asphalt to make roof felting. The underlayment protects your decking from the elements. It is also a second line of defense in case your shingles suffer from damages.

The Top Materials

Once the foundation has been laid, your roof is ready to have a top level material installed. There are numerous roofing materials on the market, but roofing shingles are by far and large the most popular amongst homeowners.

Shingles
Shingles are layered over the underlayment of your roof. In most cases, shingles are attached to the structure utilizing nails. It is important that shingles are installed properly in order for them to create the best protective barrier for the rest of your roofing structure. Improper installation can lead to damage to your underlayment and can void the warranty of the product. Always be sure you hire a professional roofer with a proven track record to handle shingle installation.

The Extras

Beyond just the simple basics that create your roofing structure, there are a few extras that help tie everything together.

Flashing
Flashing is placed around any items that protrude through your roof to create a tight seal. Examples include chimneys, skylights, and ventilation. The flashing is critical for ensuring that no leaks occur. Over the course of time, your flashing will age and eventually pull away or crack. In order to keep your home watertight, flashing should be periodically inspected and repaired.

Soffit & Fascia
At the edge of your roof, the fascia board runs horizontally and supports your gutter system. The soffit is the board that bridges the gap between the fascia and the home’s siding. Fascia usually contains ventilation as well. The most common issues your soffit and fascia will face is rotting or pulling away from the roof’s structure. Sagging gutters are another indication that you might need fascia repairs.

Help From The Pros

Need help identifying damages to any of the above components of your home’s roof? Reach out to your trusted Tuscaloosa roofer at PRN Roofing today. We will be happy to provide you with a free inspection and estimate for repairs to ensure that you and your family are protected from the elements.

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