A roof is a critical component of any building. It protects the interior space from rain, snow, sunlight and extreme temperatures.

Rafters or prefabricated trusses support sheathing of plywood or OSB. A sheathing board can be field-applied with aluminum-pigmented asphalt, asphalt emulsion, urethane or acrylic.

Regular inspections identify problems early, reducing the likelihood of costly repairs later on. Proper attic ventilation also extends the lifespan of shingles and reduces energy costs.

Shingles are designed to endure various weather conditions. They provide a sturdy shield against rain, snow, humidity, and other elements that can damage the roof structure or cause costly water leaks. However, shingles are not impervious to the silent menace of rot that can quietly wreak havoc on the entire home. Moisture seeps into the tiny crevices and gaps of deteriorating shingles, triggering a slow but steady deterioration process that may lead to permanent roof damage and expensive repairs.

The first signs of shingle deterioration are visible at the roof edges and along the hips, ridges, and eaves of the house. You might also notice shingle granules in the gutters or downspouts after a hailstorm. These granules, which resemble sandpaper, are an indication that the asphalt coating of your shingles has been compromised and exposed to the elements. A deteriorating shingle can lose its ability to protect the underlying layers of the roof and may become susceptible to rotting, which threatens the integrity of the entire roof system.

A damaged shingle can also reveal itself by producing blisters, which look similar to bruises and are often accompanied by a loss of granules in the affected area. If you notice a blistered shingle on your roof, it is time for a roof repair or replacement.

Cracking is another common sign of shingle damage. This can occur naturally due to natural aging, stress on the roof, thermal movement, and other factors. However, premature cracking on a newer shingle roof could indicate an installation problem, a manufacturer defect, or inadequate ventilation in the attic.

If you suspect your shingles are showing signs of damage, it’s best to consult an experienced roofing contractor for a thorough inspection and diagnosis. A skilled roofer will not only check the condition of the shingles, but they’ll consider surrounding indicators as well, such as a crease in the middle of a fully sealed shingle that wind damage does not exhibit.

A roofer should also be able to explain the differences between shingle color and its effect on energy efficiency. Some homeowners believe that darker shingles absorb more heat, but this is not necessarily the case. The actual factor that impacts insulation is the amount of light a shingle reflects or absorbs, not its color.

Underlayment

The underlayment is the first layer of your roof that protects against weather elements and other damage to your home. It is typically made of asphalt-saturated felt or modern synthetic materials, and it covers your entire roof deck before you install shingles or another roofing material. This underlayment creates a secondary moisture barrier that prevents wind-driven rain and water from seeping into the inner structure of your home.

When you see signs of a leaky roof, it is possible that the underlayment has been damaged. In this case, you may need to hire a professional roofing contractor for repair or replacement. Leaks can be disastrous, and they can cause significant water damage to the interior of your home. Leaks also affect the structural integrity of your home, which can be dangerous for occupants and pets.

Underlayment is a critical part of your roof, and it should be inspected regularly to ensure that it is functioning properly. Inspecting the underlayment will help you identify and address any problems before they become a major issue. The longevity of your underlayment depends on a number of factors, including its type and installation quality, weather conditions, maintenance practices, and local building codes.

The most common underlayment is a traditional piece of felt. It is less expensive than other options and has good waterproofing qualities. However, it can tear during the installation process and it can absorb moisture, reducing its effectiveness. Additionally, felt can dry out or lose its waterproof properties when exposed to UV rays.

Synthetic underlayment is a more durable option that can withstand the stresses of installation and weather extremes. It is also more effective than felt, as it is more resistant to water and can prevent leaks. Some synthetic underlayments are also breathable, which can help with condensation management in the attic space.

Some roofs require specialized underlayment, such as a fire-resistant product or a self-sealing membrane. These underlayments are designed to provide a high level of protection and safety for your home, and they can be installed in areas where other types of underlayment cannot be used.

Flashing

The flashing is a critical component of your roof and helps to keep water and moisture out of your home. It is a strip of metal that is installed in vulnerable areas on the roof, such as around chimneys, dormer walls and other protrusions. Without a flashing, these areas would leak and cause damage to the roofing structure and interior of your home. A professional roofer will install the flashing correctly to protect your home.

The type of flashing that you will need depends on the location where it is being installed. Generally, the flashing is fabricated from galvanized steel and will be bent to fit in the area that needs to be waterproofed. The flashing can also be fabricated from other materials, such as copper, but it will need to be replaced frequently because it is susceptible to corrosion.

There are several types of flashing, including step flashing, which wraps around the base of a chimney or wall and lapped under the shingles, counter flashing, which is used in valleys where two slopes meet, and roll valley, which runs along the roof’s valleys. The type of flashing you will need is dependent on the size and location of the penetration in your roof, as well as your climate.

A professional roofer will install the flashing properly to prevent water and moisture from seeping into your home, which can cause damage to the roofing structure, insulation and interior of your home. It is important to have your flashing inspected yearly to ensure that it is still in good condition and that no leaks are developing.

In addition to protecting your home from leaks, flashing can help to prevent snow and rain from building up in the gutters. The flashing will direct the water down and into the storm drains, rather than flowing into the gutters and over the fascia boards. There are a variety of flashing shapes, including L-shaped, T-shaped and F-shaped, that can be used to accommodate different sizes and configurations of gutter systems.

Because of the constant shrinking and expanding of flashing due to dramatic weather changes, it is vital that it be regularly inspected for signs of wear and tear. If left unchecked, the flashing will develop a wrinkled look, which can allow moisture to penetrate into your home.

Gutters

Gutters are an integral part of a roof and are responsible for water management. They protect the roof, walls, windows, and foundations of a building from excess moisture and other water-related problems by channeling rainwater away from the building. They are fixed along the edge of a roof and connected to downspouts that carry water towards ground level or an underground drainage system. Gutters need regular maintenance to remain functional and blockage free.

Clogged gutters cause a number of problems for your roof, the siding of your house, and the foundation. Water that is not able to flow freely through the gutter will overflow and back up onto your roof, causing shingles to sag or even lift from the roof surface. This will also lead to roof leaks which can cause water damage to the interior of your home and even structural damage to your home’s frame.

In addition, dripping water can cause wood siding to rot and paint to peel. It can also cause the foundation of your home to sink or shift, leading to a wide variety of costly issues that need to be addressed. Gutters provide a vital service to your roof and the overall health of your home and should be taken seriously when choosing contractors.

The type of gutter material you choose will depend on your budget and the look of your house. Aluminum is a popular choice for gutters because it doesn’t rust and can be painted to match the color of your house. Vinyl is another affordable option but can fade due to prolonged exposure to sunlight. Steel is a more durable gutter material but can rust over time. Copper is expensive but is long-lasting and adapts well to different roof configurations and architectural styles.