There are a few misconceptions about the most critical parts of a roof. Before a roof can be considered a complete roof, you must understand the essential components that make up a roof. In this blog, we will break down the most critical parts of a roof which can be installed with roofers in Kirkintilloch.
These vital components of a roof include decking, underlayment, sheathing, and rafter construction. You need to know each one before determining how nicely it will protect your residence.
Decking
The roof’s decking is one of the most effective solutions for preventing leaks and an essential component we will start off our list with. However, when decking is not installed correctly, shingles will not seal properly and can even blow off. Adequately shaped decking is necessary to create a stable surface and maintain the right moisture balance. Proper fasteners are also required. Ideally, deck boards should be fastened with at least two nails in each rafter.
Underlayment
The underlayment is the final layer of protection between your roof and the elements. This is a layer of synthetic fibre or felt that acts as a waterproof layer. Your shingles protect from the sun’s rays and hail, but underlayment is an added barrier against water damage.
Sheathing
The sheathing is a critical part of your roof too, and it has a variety of different uses. The most sheathing is wood and typically oriented strand board (OSB). Oriented strand board is lightweight and robust and resists bending and breaking. OSB is also a common choice for roof sheathing because it is cheap and easy to work with. However, its downsides include being heavy, sagging, and weak in moisture resistance.
Rafters
If you’ve ever wondered how your roof holds up, consider the importance of the rafters in Glasgow. These horizontal beams join opposite walls in a building and are crucial to the structural integrity of the entire roof. They are usually made of timber and can come in various widths. They provide the structural support that keeps your roof strong in solid winds.
Downspouts
A downspout is a drainage device on a roof used to divert rainwater from a shelter. The downspouts come in different styles and can vary in length. They drain water horizontally and vertically. The size of a downspout is crucial because it determines its capacity to carry water. For example, a 3″x4″ downspout can drain twice as much water as a 2″x3″ one.
Fascia
Fascia boards are an integral part of your roof. Without it, you’re vulnerable to damage from the elements outside. It also puts the roof cavity and interior at risk. Proper installation is crucial for long-term roof integrity.