When building a new home, planning for a roof replacement, or simply trying to understand more about household structures, one term that often pops up is “roof decking”. But what exactly is roof decking? Essentially, roof decking, sometimes called roof sheathing, is the base layer of the roofing system that sits between the structural components (like the trusses and joints) and the insulation/weather proofing layers. Think of it as the “foundation” on which your roof is built. The deck strengthens the roof, provides a nail bed for the shingles, and supports the entire roof system, including the gutters, shingles, and in some cases, mechanical devices such as HVAC systems, solar panels, or chillers.
Understanding roof decking is essential, not only for homeowners but also for contractors, mechanical engineers, and anyone interested in the roofing industry. In this blog post, we will explain the different types of decking material, how they shape the functionality and longevity of roofs, the standards and guidelines associated with roof decking, and how to ensure the quality and longevity of your roof decking.
Understanding the Fundamentals and Terminology of Roof Decking
To fully grasp the concept of roof decking, let’s break it down more comprehensively to its fundamental components. You’ve probably heard different phrases like ‘roof deck’, ‘roof sheathing’, and ‘decking material,’ among others. Let’s clarify these terms before we delve deeper.
Roof Deck
A roof deck or roof decking is a flat surface that bridges the rafters or trusses on the roof and provides a foundation upon which other elements of the roofing system can be applied. It is also sometimes referred to as roof sheathing, especially when the decking material used is plywood or Oriented Strand Board (OSB).
Decking Material
When we talk about roof decking material, we are referring to the types of materials used to create the roof deck. These materials can vary extensively from traditional plywood or OSB decking to more modern metal roof decking alternatives like metal deck, steel roof deck, and metal-corrugated sheet roof decking.
These materials play a considerable role in the lifespan of the roof’s surface. For example, a plywood deck might work well with asphalt shingles, but for a metal roof, steel roof decking would be a better fit. Therefore, your choice of decking material can significantly impact your overall roofing system.
Roof Decking Functions
In essence, your roof decking performs three primary functions.
- It forms a secure bed for your shingles or required roofing material and helps hold these materials in place during wind or storms.
- It provides structural integrity to your roofing system, taking on the weight of snow, ice, or even a person walking on the roof for repairs.
- Provides a solid working platform for roofers to operate with more ease and safety when dealing with a new construction or a roof replacement.
Whether you’re building a new roof or looking to replace an old roof, understanding roof decking’s basic principles will help in making informed decisions about your home’s roofing system.
Required Standards and Guidelines for Roof Decking
Building Codes
You should consider building codes. These are sets of rules and standards established by government organizations to ensure safe and standard practices in construction projects. Compliance with local building codes is not optional—it’s required by law. For roof decks, building codes may dictate specific rules such as:
- The Type of Roof Decking Materials Used
- How the Decking is Installed
- Rafter Spacing
- Snow Load
- Other Factors
International Codes
The International Residential Code (IRC) stipulates that roof decks should be solidly sheathed with approved materials when asphalt shingles are used. The roof decking should also withstand the maximum expected load of snow and anything else it’s expected to support.
A trained mechanical engineer or knowledgeable roofing contractor will ensure these codes and standards are met or even exceeded in roof decking projects. Their expertise will also account for any unique building features, local weather patterns, and the particular strengths or weaknesses of different decking materials.
Just as you wouldn’t want to write off a check without checking the financial laws, it’s crucial not to install your roof decking without considering and understanding these standards. Not only will this practice keep your roof decking legal, but it will also ensure it’s safe, durable, and long-lasting for everyone who rests under it.
Ensuring the Quality and Longevity of Your Roof Decking
Now that we have covered the fundamentals and regulatory aspects of roof decking we must ensure a roof deck’s quality and longevity. After all, it’s not just about getting the roof decking up there; it’s about making it last.
Choosing a Contractor
The first factor to consider when aiming for a durable roof deck is the selection of a competent roofing contractor. These professionals bring the necessary expertise and knowledge to effectively manage roof replacements, and new roof constructions, and ensure that the decking installed meets all regulatory standards, deals efficiently with the anticipated snow load, and suits your exact roofing needs. Read our blog for essential questions to ask your roofing contractor before hiring!
Inspections
Every once in a while, it’s smart to perform active maintenance checks on your roof deck to maintain its quality. Such checks involve watching out for signs indicative of deteriorating decking, such as roof leaks, physical damage, or shingle nails popping up. If any signs of damage become apparent to you, it’s best to reach out to a roofing expert as soon as possible to prevent the problem from escalating.
Roof Maintenance
Moreover, occasional roof maintenance might involve applying solid sheathing or initiating measures to prevent physical damage. It’s important to note that poor-quality materials can significantly degrade the overall roofing system’s quality such as:
- Subpar shingle nails
- Wood chips of low-quality
- Using the wrong type of decking for specific construction,
Maintaining the quality and prolonging the lifespan of your roof decking involves a combination of selecting the most suitable materials, ensuring proper installation, continuous monitoring, and applying maintenance when necessary. By doing this, you are not just investing in a functional roof deck; you’re investing in peace of mind knowing that your home or building is well-protected, safe, and able to withstand the elements.
The Leverage Roofing Advantage: High-Quality Roof Decking Services
In the world of roof decking, the team you choose to work with makes a significant difference.
This is where Leverage Roofing stands out. Our team works diligently to ensure that every piece of decking used on your structure, from the layered strand board and steel roof deck to any other preferred material, abides by all regulatory standards, thus guaranteeing seamless, robust, and long-lasting decking.
Choose Leverage Roofing for your next roof decking project for our expertise, quality commitment, and customer focus for your peace of mind. Because when it comes to delivering reliable and efficient roof decking solutions, we’ve got you covered. Contact Leverage Roofing today.
Resources
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oriented_strand_board
https://www.nrca.net/roofing-guidelines-recommendations/codes-standards
https://codes.iccsafe.org/content/IRC2018/chapter-9-roof-assemblies
