Many property owners give little thought to their roofing system until there’s a leak or the ceiling begins to bow. However, it's essential to understand your structure’s anatomy and the inevitable problems that come with each component. Here's a brief guide on what goes on—and under—your roof.

5 Essential Components to Your Roofing System

1. Roofing Material

As a prominent part of your roofing system, the material provides protection and determines most of your home’s curb appeal. You’ll choose from asphalt shingles, metal slates, wood shakes, and clay tiles, among others. However, each type of material has pros and cons. Being regularly exposed to the elements, they’ll deteriorate, sustain damage, and need repairs until it’s time to replace them.

2. Fascia

The fascia attaches to the roof's edge and runs horizontally across the rafters, helping support the gutters. They stop moisture and wind from seeping in and ruining your roof structure. While these boards come in different materials, they fall prey to one issue—water damage. When you fail to keep your gutters debris-free, water overflows and ruins the fascia.

3. Soffit

Found under fascias and eaves, your soffit provides ventilation and prevents moisture buildup in the attic. This board runs from the exterior siding to the roofline and has vents to let in fresh air. When not routinely inspected, soffits will crack or rot, letting insects and small animals invade your roofing.

4. Flashing

Flashings stop water from leaking through the intersections and joints of chimneys, vent stacks, skylights, and other parts of your system. They’re predominantly made of durable, waterproof material like aluminum or galvanized steel. When flashings gradually loosen, they allow leaks, seepage, and moisture damage.

5. Deck and Underlayment

Underneath your roofing are two essential components—the deck and underlayment. The decking pertains to the structural plywood base attached to the rafters or framing to act as a foundation. Your underlayment is the foam or rubber layer that sits between your deck and roof material.

A punctured underlayment will result in leaks and water damage. Neglected moisture pockets on the decking weaken your roof's overall structural support and will cause it to collapse.

When your key roofing components need to be fixed or replaced, count on the professionals at Countywide Roofing. As a trusted roofing contractor in Elyria, OH, they've provided top-notch installation, repairs, and inspections of roofs, gutters, and siding across Lorain County for over 25 years. Call (440) 246-3328 to get an estimate or visit them online today to view their list of services.