Though it may seem like a simple covering, a roof is a complex part of any building. The development of new systems and technology has led to roofs changing significantly. Though they still accomplish the same purpose, they are much more reliable than they’ve been in previous years.
Modern roofs rely on a system of interconnected components to provide holistic protection from the elements. If a Maryland roofing contractor is called to work on your roof, they may advise taking care of even the smallest problems sooner rather than later. This is because a problem with one aspect of a roof can compromise the entire thing.
How Parts of a Roof Work Together
Protecting against the elements can be tricky, and any Maryland roofing company will tell you just how important each part of a roof is in keeping out moisture, drafts, and moisture. A roof consists of various sections including:
- Shingles – The top layer of protection for a roof.
- Roof Decking – The skeleton of your roof on which all the shingles and underlayment are lain.
- Ridge – The peak of a slanted roof which commonly has a vent to allow hot air out of the attic.
- Gutters – Directs water from your roof towards the downspout(s) and away from your home’s foundation.
- Drip Edge – Aluminum strips which are placed over the underlayment at the edges of your roof to guide water into the gutters.
- Soffit – The board which connects the home’s siding and the roofline. The soffit allows air into the attic for ventilation to reduce moisture build-up.
These are some of the major parts, but not every aspect of a roofing system. When all of these pieces of a roof function correctly your roof will be in proper working order. That said, the anatomy of a roof is such that an issue with one section can carry over to others.
The Dangers of Long-Term Damage
Home Advisor pegs the average cost of roof repair at just over $713. This is a cost no homeowner wants to face, especially if it can be prevented. Due to the way roofs are designed, small problems may grow more severe if left untreated. Consider the A-shaped wall on the side of the house beneath a sloped roof. More simply known as the gable, this section is usually safe from damage—unless the areas around it experience problems. If the rake has decayed due to water damage, the gable is no longer protected. Likewise, even water pooling around certain areas on the roof can lead to the sides and eaves becoming damaged over time.
An experienced and skilled Maryland roof contractor can spot potential problems like this, and alert you to the long-term damage which can be avoided with regular roofing maintenance. To find out more about the anatomy of roofs and how to protect them, get in touch with Alternative Roofing, Inc. today!
REQUEST A FREE ESTIMATE
Service Areas
