What’s the first thing that comes to your mind when you think of roofs? Probably shingles, as they are the first and only visible thing you see on it.
However, there is a lot more to it; for example roof sheathing, also known as decking. It is the layer which comes underneath the shingles and gives a greater support to your roof. This layer is made of wooden boards to which shingles are attached and the typical material of the boards is plywood.
It is a modern invention as roofs in the past didn’t have one. It has proven to be beneficial, so nowadays people consider it as essential. Roofing companies adopted this practice and even offer repair services. It’s not a problem to find a contractor which provides roof sheathing repair in Arlington.
If you are wondering whether you need to put sheathing, read the following benefits and decide for yourself.
Prevents leaks
One crucial advantage of decking is prevention of leaks, the most common trouble for homeowners. Although some shingles are made of weather-resistant material, they are not capable of stopping leaks completely.
Sheathing provides an additional layer which fights against weather conditions. Moreover, the material of the decks is also weatherproof, so the possibility of leakage is certainly low. The space between the boards is small, so water can’t easily pass through them.
This contributes to the longevity of your roof as well as to the prevention of damage caused by leaks such as: damaging the interior of your house or harming your health in the long-run.
Provides excellent weight support
Sheathing is the main element which supports the weight of the roof and equally distributes it in all parts. The boards are attached to the main beams and don’t let any extra weight to cause damage to it. Firstly, it should hold the shingles as some shingles are heavier than others. The heavier the shingles are the thicker decking you need.
Aside from shingles, the sheathing also supports heavy loads of snow, which accumulate in winter and stay on top of the roof for a longer period of time. Visit this page to learn how much snow is too much to hold.
Decking is the first thing that goes through inspection when you decide to put solar panels. If it’s not solid enough, you can’t go on with the process of installation of the panels, as the roof would be prone to collapsing and sagging.
Helps in the prevention of fires
Decking helps in the prevention of fires in a way that it doesn’t completely stop the flames, but it slows the process of spreading. The decks are sprayed with fire retardant which holds the fire back while it’s still in the area of the attic. This gives you more time to react, by calling a fire truck and waiting for it to arrive.
Not every roofing company provides this type of sheeting, so if you want to be protected against fire, ask if this element is included in the service they offer.
Contributes to energy-efficiency
There is an option to add a radiant barrier to the sheeting so that it saves energy. This barrier is made of aluminum which prevents the heat from entering the attic and keeps your house cooler. It is usually installed by homeowners who live in countries with hot climate. It not only maintains a cool temperature in your home, but also reduces your electricity bills.
It can be installed upon the installation of a new roof or the one which you already have, but only if your attic is open. People, who have this type of radiant barrier, don’t have to use air-conditioner. Read more about its efficiency on the following link: https://homeefficiencyguide.com/radiant-barrier-facts/.
Wrap up
Sheathing is perhaps the most important element of your roof.
It serves to hold all the weight by adequately dispersing it, so you won’t have a problem with excessive snow, installation of solar panels or choosing heavy shingles.
Naturally, it requires proper repair and maintenance if you want your home to be energy-efficient and protected from fires and leaks.
Invest in solid decking, it’s definitely worth it!
