Specific building materials are essential to ensure that your roof is durable, weather resistant, and long-lasting to protect your home. In this blog post, we will give you an overview of some of the building materials Storm Ready Exteriors uses and the purpose the materials serve.
Roof Decking:
The beginning of the roof starts with the decking. The roof decking is usually plywood or orient strand board (OSB). This decking supports the entire roofing system making sure it is sturdy. The nails used to install the roof are also an important factor. The length of the nails and the materials that it is made of, will help keep the roof intact and keep the materials in place. Not any nail will suffice though, choosing the right length or type of nail is vital. Most nails are not made for the weather elements. Roofers typically use galvanized nails which are weather resistant and tend to last longer.
Shingles:
The roof shingles are the most exposed layer of the roof. They come in a variety of materials such as asphalt, metal, slate, and tile shingle. Each shingle is different in its own individual way. Asphalt shingles are more cost-effective and tend to be more durable. Metals shingles are also durable, and they tend to last longer and can be more energy efficient. Lastly, slate or tile shingles offer unmatched durability but come at an excessive cost due to their aesthetics and long-lasting durability.
Roofing Underlayment:
Beneath the shingles, there is a critical underlayment that helps add protection to your roof. This underlayment helps protect against water penetration and keeps the roof decking dry. There are many types of underlayment but Storm Ready Exteriors only uses synthetic underlayment. Synthetic underlayment is more durable than felt paper underlayment because it is more moisture resistant, lightweight, and offers a higher performance during all weather conditions.
Drip Edge:
Drip edges are metal flashing installed at the roof edges. This metal directs water away from the facia wood and prevents water damage to your home. The drip edge also prevents ice build up by directing water away from the roofs edge. Drip edge also serves a second purpose as pest control. Covering the edge of the roof with metal seals off potential gaps that could allow pests to enter the attic.
Ice and Water Shield:
Just like underlayment ice and water shields also diverts water from getting into your home. I’ve and water shield is a little more advanced, thanks to its self-adhesive membrane. This membrane helps keep water from accumulating in areas like valleys, eves, and other water penetration points. Ice and water shield is especially important when it comes to wind driven rain, typical with tropical storms and hurricanes. Since the membrane is fully adhere to the roof decking is decreases the chances of the rain infiltrating the roof surface.
Ventilation system:
Proper ventilation is vital for regulating temperature and moisture in the attic space. Not having proper ventilation can cause mold, roof leaks, and mildew in your home. This happens when the moisture has nowhere to go, so it just sits in one place causing such problems to the home. With proper ventilation you can avoid those issues. There are several types of ventilation, the most popular for a roof is the ridge vent. Ridge vents are installed along the top of the roof to allow hot air to escape. Soffit vents are also a good ventilation material. Soffit is located under the eaves where they help pull cool air into your home.
Roof Sealants:
Sealants are used on various places around your roof typically to ensure there is a watertight seal. Sealants can be found around the flashing, solar panels, or any other exposed water penetration points.
Conclusion:
Each piece of material that goes on you roof is vital to keeping an intact roof and a sound structural home. At Storm Ready Exteriors we like to educate our customers about all the components of a roofing system. Whether considering a roof repair or a new installation, we know understanding these materials can help you make informed decisions about your roofing project. Contact us today or give us a call at 443-926-6751 for any of your roofing or exterior needs!
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