Asphalt Roof Replacement

When observing your roof, one typically perceives only the outermost layer of shingles, metal, tile, or slate. However, it is essential to recognize that a roof consists of much more than this visible layer. It is an intricate system made up of multiple layers of various materials, all engineered to safeguard your home from external environmental forces while also regulating humidity and temperature within the interior. Each layer of the roof has a distinct function, yet they all work collaboratively to protect your residence and enhance the comfort of its occupants. Whether you are preparing for a roofing project or simply seeking knowledge about roofing structures, it is important to understand the seven layers that constitute a residential roof.

1. Roof Deck

The foundational layer of your roofing system is known as the roof deck, or roof sheathing. This layer is constructed from wooden boards, such as planks or plywood, which serve as the base for the roofing materials and components that will be installed. If the roof deck is compromised due to rot, it will need to be replaced during the installation of a new roof. A qualified roofing professional can assess the condition of the deck and determine the extent of any necessary replacements after the old roof has been removed.

2. Roof Insulation

Insulation is the material utilized to reduce heat transfer between the exterior and interior of your building. A thermally insulated roof contributes significantly to comfort during both cold and warm seasons. One popular and effective method of insulating roofs is through the use of polyurethane spray foam. This spray-applied material is highly efficient in sealing gaps and resisting both wind and heat. Typically, the foam is applied to the underside of the roof deck and directly onto the roofing material, whether it be tile, slate, or shingles.

3. Ventilation & Ridge

Proper roof ventilation is crucial for allowing your attic and home to maintain adequate airflow. Inadequate ventilation can significantly shorten the lifespan of your roof. Various types of roof vents are available, depending on the specific ventilation system you choose. Options include turbine vents, ridge vents equipped with baffles, power vents, and solar-powered vents.

4. Ice and Water Shield

An ice and water shield is an essential component for every roofing system, serving as a waterproof membrane that safeguards the roof from moisture-related damage. Its main function is to protect the roof decking in the event that water infiltrates beneath the roofing materials, which may include metal, slate, or asphalt shingles. Professional roofing contractors typically install ice and water shields along the edges of the roof, in valleys, and around any penetrations. This feature is particularly crucial for roofs with lower slopes.

5. Underlayment

Roof underlayment consists of felt materials, which can be synthetic, 15 lb, or 30 lb felt, that are placed between the roof decking and the shingles. This layer is generally applied directly over the decking and serves as an additional barrier against the elements. The underlayment acts as the final line of defense for the roof, should water manage to reach the decking.

6. Flashing

Roof flashing is a thin metal material specifically designed to channel water away from critical areas of the roof, including walls, valleys, and chimneys. This important roofing element is installed concurrently with the roofing shingles. Flashing can be made from aluminum, steel, or copper and is expected to last longer than the original roofing system. Consequently, it may not require replacement when a new roof is installed. However, it is imperative for roofing contractors to inspect the flashing during annual maintenance to identify any potential leaks.

7. Roofing Material

The roofing material is the outermost layer that most homeowners consider when discussing their roofs. This top layer can consist of various materials, including:

• Asphalt shingles

• Metal roofing

• Synthetic roofing

• Cedar shake roofing