Roof decking, also known as sheathing, is comprised of a layer of plywood or composite material that sits between the structural “ribs” of your roof and the shingles. While not visible from the street, it’s a critical component of your roof’s structure.
To provide proper protection, your roof contains many different layers of materials working in tandem to comprise a complete roof system. All layers are necessary in order to have a healthy roof, but the most important one is the roof decking. Essentially, it forms the foundation of the whole roof system.
A Closer Look at Roof Decking
The roof decking system includes wooden or composite boards that make up the base on which the roof layers are built. Your shingles and other roofing components are installed on top of these boards for added strength and protection. The roof decking is basically the base that lies on top of the structural trusses in your attic, covering the rafters and supporting the weight of your roofing materials.
Roof decking options include the following:
- Oriented Strand Board (OSB): The most common type of material used in roof decking, OSB is durable, readily available, and affordable. OSB is created through the compression of layers of wood strands, bound together with adhesives. Because the strands overlap each other, they form a stronger board.
- Plywood: Another common roof decking material, plywood is installed in much the same way as OSB.
- Tongue and Groove: Built from two-by-six boards, this type is so named because each board can be interlocked by boards that each have a “tongue” and a “groove” on either end. This method is desirable when the roof will be highly visible from the street, as it is the most aesthetically pleasing.
- Plank Sheathing: While not as common as the above three, plank sheathing is used in certain types of roofs, i.e., wood shakes, with wood planks spaced 1 1/2 inches apart.
You can discuss your options with one of our Twin Cities roofing experts during a consultation. They will let you know which method they feel most comfortable using and why.
Signs Your Roof Decking Needs Replacement
Roof decking and water don’t mix. In fact, rain, snow and water-related rot happens to be the most common reason why roof decking fails over time. Here are some signs your roof decking is damaged and needs replacement:
- Leaky roof
- Stains on walls and ceilings
- Sagging ceilings or roofline
- Holes in the roof
- Mildew or mold in the attic
- Damage around the chimney and flashing
- Extreme changes in heating or cooling bills
If you suspect damage has occurred to your decking, or you’re experiencing some of the above signs but aren’t sure what the culprit is, call a trusted roofer to take a look and make recommendations.
Contact Allstar Construction for Roofing in Minneapolis and St. Paul
Allstar Construction specializes in roof installation and maintenance in the Twin Cities. We use quality roof decking and underlayment for the longest lasting performance and functionality. To learn more, contact us today at (763) 297-5100.
