Residential roofs are more complex than you may think, and each component has an important role. The supporting framework, or framing, determines how much weight your roof can bear. If this framework is faulty, the roof may droop or bulge. In addition to framing, the roof is composed of rafters, which form the foundation for the roof.
Underlayment
There are many types of underlayment, and one of the oldest types is felt. Felt is an organic mat or paper saturated with asphalt that acts as a barrier between the roof and the environment. It is water resistant but not waterproof and is best used on steeply sloping roofs. Some felt underlayments incorporate a fiberglass or polyester reinforcement layer on the upper surface. Others have a special coating that is suitable for high-temperature environments.
Underlayment is an essential component of a roof system. It acts as an insulating layer between the roof deck and shingles and is usually installed by roofers of a residential roofing company. It provides additional protection against the elements and helps keep the interior of a home cool and safe.
Ventilation Products
Proper roof ventilation is an essential component of any residential roof system. Properly placed intake vents help offset the greenhouse effect caused by the sun’s ultraviolet rays. One standard intake vent is the ventilated soffit. This vent draws air into the attic through a narrow slit in the vinyl or aluminum soffit. These vents are popular because they are out of the way of inclement weather and pests.
Residential roof vents help keep homes more relaxed and reduce energy costs. Proper ventilation will keep a home comfortable even during extreme heat and cold periods. A good roof vent will allow escaping air to move freely through the attic without requiring a fan.
Shingle Caps
There are several different types of shingle caps, but some common principles will apply to all of them. First, they should be installed in the proper orientation. Generally, shingle caps are laid in a downward direction to minimize damage from wind. They also should be set in mastic to improve wind resistance. To learn more about the different types of caps, check out Malarkey Roofing’s installation manual.
The shingles themselves are another critical component of the roof, as they cover the peak area of the roof. When properly installed, these shingles will remain waterproof under certain conditions. However, improper installation can void a warranty. Consequently, if you are considering getting new shingles, you should have all your problems resolved before putting them on the roof.
Ridge Board
The ridge board is a roof system component that aids in framing and transferring roof load to the gable ends and posts. It carries about half of the load on a residential roof. It is often attached to the gable end, but some builders use it on the ridge alone.
The ridge board is one of the four main components of a residential roof system. It forms a rigid spine at the top of the roof and supports the opposing rafters. The rafters are attached to the ridge board at the bottom ends with metal framing connectors. In addition, the rafters are tied together by collar beams, which form the ceiling frame on the top floor.
A roof ridge is the highest point of the roof and is one of the most critical components of a residential roof system. The National Roofing Contractors Association defines a ridge as a horizontal line where two different roof areas intersect. While the ridge is not the only part of the roof that needs attention, it is an essential component for many reasons. A roof ridge is also a common place for roof vents. These vents are usually cut into the ridge and do not show from the ground.
