The topmost part of the house, your roof, is the most important yet the least known part of the house by homeowners. Knowing your basic roof structure helps maintain it because you can identify the cause of a problem and explain it to a roofer to repair it.
There is more to the shingles you see at the top of the roof. For example, parts like the insulation and flashing protect the entire system from water damage. The shingles cover the inner parts and also offer water and wind resistance.
All the roof parts should be correctly installed for sturdiness. Also, the roofing shingles determine how long your roof will last because they perform differently. Therefore, before looking at the roof’s structure, we will first mention the factors that determine the type of shingles to install.
Let us get started.
Factors To Consider When Buying Shingles
While most homeowners immediately go for aesthetics when choosing the shingles, more factors are to consider. For example, the shingles should be energy efficient and water-resistant to last longer. The other factors to consider are;
1. Weight
Most people might quickly choose heavy shingles because they associate weight with durability, which is not entirely true. The shingles are fixed at the top of the other roofing materials, and if they are too heavy, they push down the different roof materials.
When the shingles are too heavy, the roof curves and could crack. Cracks and bending are some signs your roof is lousy and needs a replacement. To be safe, install shingles made of asphalt or cement. These are moderately lighter and protect the entire roof.
2. Cost
Different roofing shingles cost differently, and having a budget helps you narrow down your roof’s choice. When buying, do not purchase the cheapest shingles. Set a reasonable budget to get quality shingles.
Nevertheless, you don’t have to get the most expensive shingles. Sometimes the manufacturers overprice the shingles, yet there are no additional benefits you get. Also, hire a qualified roofer to install them.
3. Aesthetics
While looks should not be your priority when buying shingles, they are essential. The shingles change the look of your home and will also attract homebuyers if you put your house up for sale.
If you are unsure of the shingles to get that match your home’s look, consult a designer. They will choose a color that matches the best shingles for your house. However, don’t let them force you to get shingles that you don’t like.
4. Home’s Architectural Design
You want to maintain the aesthetics of your home’s architectural design, so you should buy shingles that match it. Although this factor does not matter greatly, installing different shingles from your home’s architectural design could reduce its value.
Understanding The Roof’s Structure
The shingles cover the other parts of the roof, protecting water entry into the system and strengthening the entire structure. Also, some of the inner parts of the roof are replaceable when they are damaged. Let us check them out.
1. Flashing
Flashing is also called joint cover, and it prevents water entry into the roof through the joints. Roofers fix them in the roof valleys, around the chimney, and skylights. You can get one made of galvanized steel, aluminum, or plastic. Flashing is prone to rust, depending on the material you buy, so ensure you treat or paint them.
2. Underlay Membrane
If you want a long-lasting roof, the underlay membrane is crucial to consider. It is made of felt saturated with asphalt and synthetic fabric, and it protects the roof against unfavorable weather conditions.
3. Valley
A roof valley is where the two parts of a pitched roof meet and project inwards. This part is always at a lower slope. Since water can easily enter the roof through the valley, roof installers fix the flashing to ensure no water passage.
4. Ice And Water Protector
Ice and water protectors are installed under the shingles to protect the roof from ice dams and storms. The material also covers the ceiling around the ails to ensure a watertight seal.
5. Roof Truss
The roof truss is the main skeleton of the roof because it is where the shingles and other roof parts are placed, as explained here https://www.roofmasterlubbock.com/identifying-parts-roof-functions/
Different states have various building codes that indicate the type of roof truss to install. They are also of different materials. For example, you can buy a truss made from wood or metal.
6. Rafters
The rafters are installed under the shingles, and they run from one side of the roof to the other. These roof parts support the insulation, and you can get them in wood or metal. Also, the rafters determine the strength of the roof.
7. Fascia
The fascia is the visible wooden roof part that runs across the roof’s edges. It holds the gutters and also increases the home’s curb appeal. Therefore, it is essential to consider aesthetics when buying your house’s fascia.
8. Attic
The attic is the space under the roof. It is mainly found in high-pitched roofs, and it creates an extra room in the house. The attic must be well-ventilated to protect the roof from too much heat and cold, fastening its breakdown.
9. Roof Vent
The roof vents are installed to ensure proper ventilation in the attic. When buying the vents, choose those with four sides. They can capture wind from all directions making them more effective.
10. Shingles
Shingles are the top layer of the roof. You can buy wooden shingles or those made of iron. Also, fiberglass and asphalt shingles are good choices. Shingles protect the entire roof from harsh climatic conditions like rainfall, sunlight, and snow.
Final Words
Once you understand the different parts of a roof structure, you can easily explain the roof’s problem to the roofer. Also, knowing the parts helps you design your custom roof, including the shape. You can also hire an expert to design the roof for you.
