The Key Elements of an Asphalt Shingle Roof

Asphalt shingle roofs look like simple installations, but they’re actually complex systems that help protect your home from anything nature throws at it. Read on as local roofing contractor Pawcatuck Roofing Co. shares a tour of the key components of a standard asphalt shingle roof.

Framing

The framing functions as the skeleton of the roof and defines the roof’s shape and structure. It consists of rafters, trusses and other parts of the framework. The framing dictates the roof slope and how many planes it will have. Placement of penetrating components such as chimneys and exhaust pipes taken into account prior to building the framing. It must be built using treated timber to minimize damage caused by moisture.

Decking

Roof decking is made of boards fastened to the rafters. It provides a flat surface where all other roofing components are fastened to during roof replacement. Decking is typically built using OSB (oriented strand board) or plywood. Some roofing systems utilize tongue-and-groove decking for homes with exposed ceilings.

Underlayment

Also known as “felts,” underlayment is a barrier that protects the roof deck and framing from moisture infiltration if the outer roofing is damaged, punctured or torn off.  Roofing manufacturer GAF offers a type of underlayment that’s “breathable,” which lets moisture underneath it evaporate, helping keep the roof deck dry.

Starter Strips

The roof edge bears the brunt of wind damage, as well as water infiltration from overflowing gutters. Starter strips are the first row of shingles that are installed on the roof edge. It’s installed as a single roll of material that matches the rest of the roof. Starter strips are reinforced with adhesive, which enhances its wind resistance and makes it watertight.

Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles comprise the main body of the roof, and are installed from the roof edge going up.

Flashing

Flashing is the strip of metal that protect valleys, dormers and other breaks along the roofing plane. A rubber boot is a cone-shaped type of flashing that protects the base of vent pipes and similar protrusions on the roof.

Ridge and Soffit Ventilation

An attic ventilation system flushes out heat and moisture from the attic through ridge vents while pulling cool air through vents in the soffit. For most roofs, this passive ventilation system keeps the attic cool and helps prevent damage caused by heat and moisture.

Pawcatuck Roofing Co. is your leading provider of roofing repair and installation services. Give us a call at (860) 650-1951. You can also fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment. We serve customers in New London, CT, and surrounding communities.