As a homeowner, you need to make sure your roofing system is in great shape. When thinking about the health of your roof, the first thing that may come to mind is your shingles. Strong winds and heavy snow loads may require emergency roof repair services for your shingles, but that’s only one part of the problem. Below your shingles, you can find your decking or sheathing, one of the most important structural components of your roofing system.
The roof decking is the foundation that keeps your shingles supported. A healthy roof decking ensures your roof is in its best condition. But like most roofing components, it can be susceptible to damage. It may go unnoticed at first, but if you don’t address the problem ahead of time, it can compromise the integrity of your roofing system and lead to costly repairs.
What Is Roof Decking?
Roof decking, also known as sheathing, is the layer of plywood or composite material between the roof’s structural components (i.e. rafters and trusses) and the shingles. It may not be visible, but it is a crucial component of your roof’s overall structure. The roof decking panels lay on top of the structural trusses, or the “bones” of your attic, to cover the rafters and hold your shingles in place.
In some residential roofing systems, roof decking is built using plywood or oriented strand board (OSB). In older homes, meanwhile, it may consist of boards that are either butted together or connected with a tongue-and-groove joint. Either way, the roof decking should be strong enough to support the weight of your shingles while being flexible enough to slightly give in to high winds.
The most important function of your roof decking is to keep rain and snow out and allow excess moisture to evaporate through your attic. To ensure your roof is ventilated and well-protected from moisture, your contractor will install a roof underlayment, a protective layer of thin, engineered material made of either felt or synthetic material, between the roof decking and shingles.
How Can Roof Decking Get Damaged?
There are plenty of ways your roof’s decking or sheathing becomes damaged. As mentioned, it’s one of the most vulnerable parts of your roofing system. For instance, the installation of solar panels can contribute to roof deck damage. Solar panels may be a great way to save money on your home energy bills, but take note that roof-mounted solar panels can be heavy. The extra weight can cause your roof deck to warp or split. For this reason, your solar roofing contractor should make sure your roof can hold the weight of the solar panels before they install them.
In addition to that, your roof decking can also be damaged in areas where shingles are missing due to strong winds, ultraviolet (UV) deterioration or age. However, the most common roof decking damage is rot.
What Are the Signs of Rotted Roof Decking?
Roof decking is often made from wood and wood composites, which makes them susceptible to rotting if they are constantly exposed to excess moisture. This can seep into your roofing system in many ways, from ice dams or snow accumulation during winter to inadequate roof ventilation.
The most common sign of a rotted roof deck is a leak. Stains on interior walls or peeling wallpaper is a possible sign of a leaking roof. In the attic, you might discover dark water stains on the rafters or in the insulation. A sagging roof is also another indication that there are major issues with your roof decking. Rotted roof decking leads to warping, which can lead to a wavy roofline and ceiling. As soon as you notice any of these signs, it’s best to call a professional roofer right away. Otherwise, mold and mildew may develop in the walls, ceilings and insulation, compromising the integrity of your roofing system and causing health problems in your households.
Can You Repair a Rotted Roof Decking?
In the event your roof decking has sustained moisture and started to rot, the only course of action would be to invest in a new roof. If there is rotten decking, the shingles are likely letting moisture in already. If not, it’s only a matter of time until the rotted roof decking lets water into your attic or ceiling. This can result in extensive roof damage, leading to more mold and mildew issues and costly repairs.
Dry wood rot, for example, can spread to other wood structures in your home – even to structural wood. It can also damage many other parts of your home, including the electrical system. As such, it’s best to stop dry wood rot as soon as possible by replacing your roof decking.
How Can You Protect Your Roof Decking?
If your roof is consistently exposed to rain or hail, be sure to have it inspected twice a year: once in the fall and once in the spring. You should also have your roof inspected after a severe weather event. During the inspection, your roofer will look for any signs of damage and perform emergency roof repair services as needed. This way, you prevent rotted roof decking from occurring in the first place.
Another way you can protect your roof decking from rot is by preventing moisture damage. This means cleaning gutters and downspouts regularly. If they are clogged due to branches and debris buildup, the water can travel to your roof and under the decking. Additionally, you should consider eliminating moss on your roof’s surface as it usually collects water. Inadequate attic ventilation also causes condensation issues, dampening the underside of your roofing system. Therefore, it’s best to invest in a solid ventilation system.
To make sure your decking and the rest of your roofing system are still intact, turn to LePage and Sons Roofing. Whether you need a roof replacement or inspection, you can count on our professional roofers for top-quality roofing work. Give us a call at (508) 295-6483, or fill out our online contact form to schedule a consultation.