roofing 101
Roofing 101: Your Guide to Roof Systems in Burlington, WA
At Roof Recovery, we believe in empowering homeowners and building owners with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions about their roofing needs. This guide, based on insights from the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA), covers essential roofing topics to help you understand the components, materials, and factors affecting your roof's longevity.
Roof System Components
Steep-slope roof systems (those with a slope of 25% or more) consist of five essential components:
Roof Covering: Includes shingles, tile, slate, or metal, along with underlayment to protect the sheathing from weather damage.
Sheathing: Boards or sheet material fastened to roof rafters, forming the base of the roof structure.
Roof Structure: Rafters and trusses designed to support the sheathing and distribute weight evenly.
Flashing: Metal or other materials installed at joints and valleys to prevent water seepage.
Drainage: The design elements of a roof, such as slope and shape, that facilitate water runoff and prevent pooling.
Choosing a Roof System
When selecting a new roof system, consider factors like cost, durability, aesthetics, and architectural style. Here are some common roofing materials used in steep-slope structures:
Asphalt Shingles
- The most popular roofing material in the U.S.
- Available in organic or fiberglass variants.
- Classified by fire resistance ratings (Class A, B, or C).
- Can feature algae-resistant coatings in humid climates.
Wood Shingles & Shakes
- Made from cedar, redwood, or southern pine.
- Shingles are machine-sawn; shakes are handcrafted for a rustic look.
- Fire resistance varies, with some factory-treated options achieving Class A ratings.
Tile Roofing
- Includes clay or concrete tiles.
- Commonly used in Southwest and Florida regions.
- Heavy material requires structural assessment before installation
slate roofing
- Naturally sourced and incredibly durable.
- More expensive than other materials and requires specialized installation.
- Found in many historic homes, especially in the Northeast.
metal roofing
- Available in panel or shingle form.
- Offers lightweight durability and high weather resistance.
- Some products mimic traditional wood or tile aesthetics.
Synthetic Roofing
- Designed to replicate traditional materials like slate or wood.
- Composition varies by manufacturer, so durability and longevity may differ.
Pro Tip: Always inspect full-size samples and visit completed projects before making a decision.
Ventilation and Insulation
Key to Roof Longevity
Proper attic ventilation is crucial for extending the life of your roof system. It prevents:
- Heat buildup that can cause shingles to deteriorate.
- Moisture accumulation, leading to rot and insulation damage.
- Higher energy costs due to inefficient temperature regulation.
Essential Ventilation Elements:
- Sufficient attic insulation – Prevents heat transfer.
- Vapor retarder – Blocks moisture from rising into the attic.
- Proper vent spacing – Ensures unrestricted airflow.
- Balanced intake and exhaust vents – Prevents condensation buildup.
NRCA recommends 1 square foot of vent area per 150 square feet of attic space, distributed between soffits and ridge vents.
Even Roofs Have Enemies
- Sun: UV rays degrade materials over time.
- Rain & Moisture: Encourages mold, mildew, and structural rot.
- Wind: Can lift shingles and expose the underlayment to water damage.
- Snow & Ice: Ice dams can block drainage, causing leaks.
- Condensation: Poor ventilation leads to structural decay.
- Moss & Algae: Retains moisture, accelerating rot.
- Trees & Leaves: Branches can damage shingles; leaves trap moisture.
- Missing/Torn Shingles: Exposes the roof structure to further damage.
- Flashing Deterioration: Compromised flashing leads to leaks around chimneys, vents, and walls.
Roofing Terms You Should Know
Structural Components
- Deck/Sheathing: The plywood or OSB base for roofing materials.
- Dormer: A small window structure projecting from a sloped roof.
- Rafters & Trusses: Framing components supporting the roof.
- Slope/Pitch: The angle of a roof, measured as vertical rise per horizontal foot.
- Rake: The inclined edge of a sloped roof extending beyond the eaves.
- Ridge: The highest horizontal line of a roof where two slopes meet.
Roof Protection & Drainage
- Drip Edge: A metal strip that directs water away from the fascia.
- Flashing: Metal components used to seal joints and prevent leaks.
- Underlayment: A water-resistant layer between the roof deck and shingles.
- Eave & Fascia: The lower edge of the roof and its finishing board.
- Louvers: Ventilation openings that allow air to pass through while keeping out rain and debris.
- Penetrations: Openings in the roof, such as vents, chimneys, or skylights, that require flashing for waterproofing.
Weatherproofing & Safety
- Fire Rating: Classification for fire resistance (Class A, B, or C).
- Vapor Retarder: A barrier to prevent moisture buildup.
- Valley: The angle where two roof slopes meet, requiring reinforced protection
- Square: A unit of measure for roofing materials, equivalent to 100 square feet.
- Oriented Strand Board (OSB): A type of engineered wood used for roof sheathing.
Why Choose Esary Roofing for Gutter Services?
Roof Inspections & Consultations
Professional assessments for homes and businesses.
Roof Repairs & Maintenance
Extending the life of your existing roof.
Full Roof Replacements
Using high-quality materials to ensure durability.
Storm Damage Restoration
Quick and reliable solutions for weather-related issues.
Contact Esary Roofing today for a free consultation!
Whether you need custom metal roofing panels, flashing, or specialty metal components, Esary Roofing’s expert fabrication team is here to help. Contact us today and let us show you the Esary difference.
