How a Roofing System is Built: Understanding the Parts of Your Roof That is Under Your Shingles.

What is under your shingles? It is easy to overlook the complexity of the entire roofing system on your home, focusing primarily on aesthetics or costs. However, each part of your roof has a unique function that impacts the overall performance of your roof. Having a basic understanding of the parts of a roof will help you make informed decisions when you are having your roof inspected, repaired or replaced.

For homeowners in Jenison, Grandville, Hudsonville, Wyoming and throughout Ottawa and Kent counties, knowing how your roof system works can also help you recognize any potential problems before they turn into expensive repairs.

What Are the Main Parts of a Roof Called?

Every residential home has the same basic components to their roof. They are not all constructed the same way, but all of these components work together to create your entire roofing system to keep your home protected.

1. Roof Deck or Sheathing

When you see a new construction house before it is shingled, you are looking at the roof deck. This is the structural surface that is underneath all the roofing materials. Usually constructed from plywood or OSB, this serves as the structural foundation for the roofing material.

Why is the condition of the roof deck so important? The condition of the roof decking is especially important during a roof replacement. Often times decking may have to be replaced during a tear off when damage is encountered. If the decking has been damaged by moisture or leaks, we will determine if portions can remain or if we would need to replace certain sections. If older 1x6 lumber was used, we will add a layer of 7/16" OSB over top to smooth out the surface.

2. Roof Underlayment (This consists of products such as Felt and Ice and Water shield)

These components act as a protective barrier between the roof deck and the roofing material. The underlayment provides an additional layer of protection against moisture and helps to protect the roof deck. This is important if water gets underneath the shingles.

Ice and water shield is made up of self-adhering membrane material. This provides additional protection for the roof in areas that are susceptible to any water intrusion. These are areas like edges or valleys. Ice and water shield is very important in Michigan due to the heavy snowfall that can create snow and ice conditions that add additional roofing stress to your home. Learn about ice dams in West Michigan that can potentially cause issues with a roof system: Understanding Ice Dams and how to prevent them

3. Shingles

Shingles are the most visible part your roof. We have worked with many different roofing products over the years. Although there are may brands of shingles available, we often recommend Malarkey Roofing Products based on their performance, durability and their amazing sustainability features. Please read our information regarding Malarkey shingles here: Malarkey Roofing Products.

Malarkey Highlander Brilliant Black Shingles

4. Eaves and Overhangs

Eaves are the edges of the roof that overhang the walls of the house. This design helps direct water runoff away from the foundation of your home, preventing potential damage. Good eave design can also protect areas such as windows and doors from water damage.

5. Flashing

Flashing is a crucial part of your roofing system, designed to direct water away from critical areas like chimneys and vents. Made from materials like metal or rubber, flashing helps prevent leaks and moisture intrusion. Flashing is used to protect areas where a part of the roof meets another portion, or where something passes through the roof (like a vent or chimney).

This is a critical component that can take years to learn to install or repair correctly. At Peak Roofing, we have seen many roofs with a variety of issues. Knowing the correct way to install and to repair this aspect is extremely important in preventing roof leaks.

If you have a roof leak, you might just need a flashing repair instead of a full roof replacement. This can save you thousands of dollars when you have a company who gives you an honest and informed recommendation after inspecting your roof.

Every part of your roof has a purpose. This is why a roof replacement is considered an entire roofing system. There is so much more involved than just replacing the visible shingle portion of the roof.

What Happens If One Part of a Roof Fails? If it leaks or has missing shingles?

Damaged shingles can sometimes allow water to reach the underlayment and eventually the roof decking. Damaged flashing can create leaks around chimneys, walls, or other roof penetrations. Problems with the valleys can create areas where water pools and penetrates the roof system. These are very common causes of roof leaks.

In conclusion, there are numerous components to your roof. Many that are not listed here! Each component of your roof works together to provide protection and enhance the durability of your roof. Understanding how these components work together will help you in making the best decision for your home.

Visit our residential roofing page for a few common questions we often receive from homeowners: https://www.peakroofingmichigan.com/residentialroofreplacement.

Please call us if you have any questions! We are here to help you make the best informed decsion for your home. Whether you need a full roof replacement or repair, we are here to help!