Understanding the different materials and components of a roof is very important, regardless of whether you are doing a residential roof replacement or a new roof installation on a new home. A roof replacement is one of the most important investments a Guelph or Cambridge homeowner can make because a new roof doesn’t just improve how your home looks, but it also increases energy efficiency and adds significant value to your home.
Additionally, a new roof provides an excellent return on investment, increased comfort and perhaps, more importantly, increased safety. However, before you start replacing your roof, it is good to take the time to research and learn about the different components of a roof, as well as the roofing materials options available. Below, you will find some useful information to get you started.
Roofs are important for your home and your family
This may seem obvious, but roofs are important. Perhaps not so obvious is why. The main function of your roof is to protect the home from the elements like wind, hail, ice, snow and rain. This is why your roof must be sturdy and very functional, to keep your family and home safe from inclement weather. Additionally, a good roof system will provide energy savings, retain heat better in winter and keep your home cooler in the summer. There are five main components of your roof, below we have a short summary of them.
The 5 Main Components of a Roof
Roof Coverings
Roof coverings. These include shingles, slate, tile or metal, as well as the underlayment that shields the sheathing from exposure and weather.
Sheathing
Sheathing is the boards or sheet materials attached to your roof’s rafters and that cover the house.
Structure
The structure of a roof is composed of trusses and rafters. These support the sheathing.
Materials
In order to prevent water leaking into the home, materials such as ‘flashing’ are installed into a roof system’s joints and valleys.
Shape, slope and layout
Shape, slope and layout are additional elements that make up a roof. These elements influence a roof’s ability to drain water.