Your roof covers your home and protects its interiors from outside conditions such as rain and extreme temperatures. Your design preferences, local environment, and budget will all play a part in the roofing material you choose; common ones include asphalt shingles, wooden shingles, metal roofing, and slate. If you’re on the market for new roofing, consider these basics so you’ll be in the know during the installation process. 

What Are Some of the Essential Components in a Roof?

Your roof’s decking is the foundation on which the rest of your roof is built. In most homes, the decking is made from oriented strand board, but other materials include polystyrene, concrete, and metal. Decking is attached to rafters. The underlayment is installed onto the decking; it’s typically a synthetic or felt material that provides additional protection for the roof, deck, and shingles. It helps repel moisture and leaks.

The flashing also prevents leaks; it’s a piece of sheet metal placed over joints in the roof, such as between the chimney and the roof, to keep water from getting into cracks and weak points.

The roof’s soffit is the boarded area connecting the home’s siding and roofline. It creates ventilation for the attic, preventing excess moisture and, thus, mold or mildew. The soffit is often made of wood and is located under the fascia, the part of the roof that houses gutters and stretches between rafters. In addition to adding visual appeal, it holds up gutters and other drainage pipes. 

What Are Common Roofing Issues? 

Over time, when the flashing is worn or damaged, it can lead to leaks in your roof. Similarly, shingles may be damaged by inclement weather or wear and tear, resulting in curling or falling off altogether. Thus, they’ll leave the underlayer of your roof susceptible to moisture, rotting, holes, and leaks. 

Additionally, the roof’s soffit is often made of wood; it attracts pests who might chew holes and cracks into its surface. Your roofing contractor will keep an eye on this trouble spot. They’ll also keep an eye on your gutters; if your gutters aren't regularly surfaced, they might become clogged with buildup and not do their job properly. The foundation of your home may be exposed to excess moisture and thus be damaged by erosion. Plus, mold and mildew might grow in the gutters themselves and eventually spread inside your home.

Install a quality roof and keep it in good condition with the professionals at Superior Siding & Seamless Gutter in Fort Dodge, IA. This family-owned and -operated business provides a range of home improvement services, including installation of siding, vinyl windows, roofing and gutters. To enhance the safety of your roof, they install new soffit, fascia, and insulation. Call (515) 955-6171 to schedule a free estimate for your home improvement project. Go online for more about their comprehensive roofing services.