Everyone appreciates having a solid roof over their head, but not many people take the time to understand the individual parts that make up its actual structure. Your roof is more than a few slabs of wood and shingles slapped on top of your home. It’s a well-engineered structure that protects you from harsh weather. It also provides a nice little exterior finish that caps off your home. But what exactly makes up a roof, and why are these parts essential to its integrity and weatherproofing capabilities?
The anatomy of a roof can be complicated, there’s a lot of terminology thrown around, which is why we are happy to provide a few definitions of the basic parts of a roof. The more understanding you have, the more confident you will be when finding the right roofing contractor to get the job done.
Here is a breakdown of the different parts of your roof, along with a short description of each part. You won’t be a roofing expert when you finish reading it (that’s our job!) but you will at least understand the basic terminology involved.
Decking – The decking is the base on which everything else is laid. It closes and reinforces the roof structure and provides a nailbed for the shingles.
Saddles – The structure that is located behind the higher side of the chimney. It helps divert rainwater around it.
Soffit Vents – A screened vent in your house that allows air to flow into the attic or the space below the roof sheathing.
Fascia – A flat piece of material that covers the end of rafters.
Flashing – Thin pieces of material that are installed to prevent passages of water into a structure from a joint.
Shingles – The primary covering for your roof that takes the brunt of the weather. Not sure which shingles are right for your roof? Read our quick guide to help you make the right decision.
The roof is one of the most important parts of the home. It provides protection from snow, rain, ice, etc. Always remember that it’s important to regularly inspect your roof for damage in order to keep it in good health. Most importantly, don’t hesitate to get in touch with Schmidt Roofing if you have questions about your roof. We hope that defining some of the basic terms will help you determine what, if anything, is wrong. If you think you have damage to your roof, contact us for a free quote today.
