There’s a lot of vocabulary for a homeowner to learn when working on a roofing project. Understanding your roof’s anatomy can help you communicate with your roofer, properly maintain your roof, and avoid future issues. So, what is decking on a roof? And why might you need to know about it?
What Is Decking on a Roof?
We often focus on aesthetics when we discuss roof remodeling, but there’s a lot more to your roof than the shingles on top of it. A roof may appear simple from the outside, but if you look underneath the surface, some serious hardware protects your home too. What is decking on a roof, and what do you need to know about it?
Roof Decking Holds It All Together
One of the reasons that a roof is such a complicated structure is that it does so many jobs for your home or business. A good roof has to be waterproof, well-insulated, and able to support itself through any weather or adverse event. Roof decking makes this possible by providing a supportive structure on which the roof’s hardware can be placed. Roof decking is typically a flat layer of building material that sits between the roof structure and the building the structure protects. It’s most commonly made of wood but can be made of metal or other materials. The roof’s system is built on top of it, and materials like waterproof membranes and insulation are also placed there. A proper roof deck can withstand the weight of your roof and provide all the protection you need from the elements — come what may!
What Do I Need To Know About Roof Decking?
What kinds of things does a responsible homeowner or building manager need to know about roof decking? The most important thing to remember is that repairing and inspecting roof decking isn’t a good project for a roofing amateur. If you have questions or concerns about your roof decking, it’s time to call in the professionals. But while you shouldn’t plan to work on your roof decking by yourself, it’s still helpful to understand the anatomy of your roof decking when making repairs and renovations:
- What is the general condition of your roof decking? Is it older or newer, recently repaired, or in need of attention? It needs a roofer’s attention ASAP if it is corroded, structurally unsound, or shows evidence of pooling water.
- How much weight can your roof decking handle? Can it withstand the load if you want to add new structures or repair existing ones?
- How is the roof attached to the roof decking, and how can it be safely removed? Can the repairs or new construction you need be accomplished without interfering with access to upstairs windows and ventilation systems?
To get the information you need about your roof decking, you can look at the documentation related to your roof’s maintenance over the years. However, if the roof has not been annually maintained and inspected, those records may not tell you the whole story. If you aren’t sure about the condition of your roof deck, call a roofing professional for an inspection ASAP.
_____
What is decking on a roof? It’s the structure that holds your roof together, and keeping it in good repair is essential.
If you live in southwest Missouri and are due for a roof inspection, contact Taylor-Made Roofing for all your roofing needs. Our experts can help you explore new roofing options, maintain an older roof, perform emergency repairs, complete tear-offs and recovers, and perform remodeling services. Our family-owned business offers quality services, a reassuring warranty, and free estimates. For more information regarding roofing options and roof decking repairs, please call us at 417-326-8778 or contact us online. We look forward to hearing from you!