Keeping your roof in good working condition and having regular maintenance performed means it can protect your home for decades. In fact, there are some roofing systems available today that have a warranty of over 50 years! And although roofing systems can last a long time, they don’t last forever and if you’re needing a new roof installation in Downriver Michigan then understanding the components of the roof can help you make a better decision. We’ll go over what makes up your roof and help to explain what each component is for in this post.
Key Components that Make Up Your Roofing in Downriver Michigan
When you get a new roof installed on your home you will be given choices about the materials that are being used. Just like any other product there are higher quality materials that are available at higher prices and lower quality products that are much less expensive. Many times the differences in these products can be determined by the warranty that is associated with them. A longer warranty usually indicates a better quality product as the manufacturer will stand behind the product longer. And while this may be an option for some people there are still great roofing products of good quality and a lower price. So be sure to consider all the options for your roof when getting a new roof.
Roof Decking
A major component that most people never consider is the roof decking on the home. The roof decking is usually made from sheeting wood which is typically either plywood or OSB. This is the foundation where all the other roofing components are placed. It’s always best to get any roof decking replaced when getting a new roof installation if there are problems such as rotting or insect damage. During a re-roof of your home many times problems with the roof decking are missed and that’s one reason many home owners opt for a full tear off and replacement of the roof.
Roofing Underlayment
While some roofers may not consider roofing underlayment as an important component it helps tremendously if there are problems later with your roof. The roofing underlayment is placed on top of the roof decking. The roofing underlayment is made of different materials and can sometimes be called ‘tar paper’ There are different thicknesses of this tar paper as well there is also synthetic underlayment which most roofers use today. Roofing manufacturers usually require specific roofing underlayment in order to honor the warranty of your home’s roofing.
Roof Flashing
In places where water can be a problem and roofing edges are different roof flashing is used. Roof flashing is usually made from metal and placed under shingles and along edges of the roof where it meets walls or other structures. Roof flashing is used on chimneys and skylights in many cases as well. In areas such as valleys on the roof chances are you can’t see the roof flashing.
Ridge Vents
In order to keep your roofing at a proper ventilation many times ridge vents are used to allow air to exit the attic. Ridge vents are installed at the peaks of the roof and typically have a vent that is about two inches tall throughout the length of the ridge. Most ridge vents are made from plastic and are black in color making it a bit harder to notice.
Roofing Shingles
The most important part of the roof however is the roofing shingles on the home. As you probably know the roofing shingles that you can choose from for your home are vast. There are many different styles and designs when it comes to roofing shingles. Plus, there are different qualities of roofing shingles as well. From lower quality 3 tab shingles to higher quality impact resistant shingles. Talk with a roofing professional about the roofing shingles you want installed on your home’s roof.
Get a Free Estimate!
Knowing which roofing components are installed on your home can help you make better decisions when it comes to getting a new roof installed on your home. If you are considering getting a new roof installed on your Downriver Michigan home be sure to call the experts at Downriver Roofers today at 734-548-9919 for a free estimate!
