Roof replacement isn’t something you take on often as a homeowner. Understanding and knowing the components that make up your roof are of great importance when it comes to knowing how they integrate into your roof system.
A proper roofing system includes:
- Ice and Water Shield
- Drip edge and Flashing
Shingles come in all types and varieties. The most common shingle is the Asphalt shingle. Asphalt shingles offer protection against the harshest of elements. They are an effective standby when it comes to choosing material for your roof. In addition, they are inexpensive, easy to install and get the job done.
In between your roof shingles and wood decking, is another layer of protection called underlayment. This additional barrier is added to combat against moisture and water. These are areas that may be vulnerable to exposure and can found in between the seams of your roof. There are many types of underlayment including but not limited to; organic, fiberglass and synthetic options. The right underlayment will add years of life to your roof and investment.
Ice and Water Shield
Ice and water shield is used as a modified self-adhered protective leak barrier. It comes in a sheet with split back release film – much like a peel-and-stick foundation. It has an extremely sticky backing that is helpful when creating a watertight barrier. Water and ice barrier aids in the overall integrity and protection of your roof system.
Drip edge is usually found along the bottom of the roof edge or along the eaves. The purpose of drip edge is to keep water from accumulating underneath your roof shingles. When installed correctly, it diverts water into the gutter and away from the wood rafters along the roof line.
When water ponds or becomes stagnant, flashing acts as a divergent. It is used and added around chimneys, skylines or vents. Flashing can be made of galvanized alloys, copper, and stainless steel.
Preventing costly damage to your roof can be as simple as maintaining proper ventilation. An unvented attic over time allows warm air to become trapped causing moisture and condensation. Over time, condensation and moisture can build up in the attic and can cause mold, mildew, and rot, resulting in serious structural damage to your home.