It is not necessary to explain the importance of roofing in our house. We all know how a good structured roof saves us from natural calamities or lets us enjoy the light rain and white snow.
If you are thinking of building your new home or going to renovate the old one, a question may peep in your head, roof layers how many?
The exact answer to this question may depend on the roof type you are thinking of building. However, there are some basic layers that are much needed for a sustainable, long lasting roof.
Let’s dig into this article to know more!
Roof Layers How Many: An Ultimate Guide
Some people might think that the more layers makes the roofs stronger. This is not true all the time as it depends on the home structure and ability of the roof to hold the layers. But basic roofing layers are enough for a good roof.
Basic layers of Roof
Roof Decking: No matter the type of roofing, roof decking is always the first layer of roofing. Roof decking refers to plywood or planks that constitute the roof’s framing. And by attaching the trusses with the joists together, it gives structure to the roof.
Drip Edges: Metal flashing placed at the edges of the roof is known as drip edge. Water enters below the rots and gutters of your roof decking if there is no drip edge in your roof.
Water and Ice barrier: It is a water resistant, self-adhering membrane. It helps to keep water out whether it’s from windy rain or ice formation .
Underlayment of the roof: this is one kind of felt that lays between your deck and the shingles. It protects the deck from water damage and helps the shingles to set properly.
Roofing Flash: it is a thin material usually metal which is placed in particular areas like roof valleys, walls or chimneys. It is generally installed before the shingles and needs to be inspected on a regular basis.
Starter shingles: this is a special type of shingles for the edges of the roof. It lays before the actual shingle and gives an extra protection from windy rain and snow.
Shingles or other roofing material: this is the outside part of the roof which gives protection as well as aesthetic look. There are different types of roofing materials including traditional asphalt to synthetic material or metal roofing.
Ridge Caps: it is installed where the slopes of the roof meet. It not only gives a finished look of the roof but also prevents water and helps to escape hot air.
Double Shingled Roof
When many people think about roof layers they intend to have a double shingled roof. Well, this might seem low cost for the short term. But for the long term it is not a sustainable, cost effective solution.
In a double shingled roof, the top of shingles doesn’t last long; it doesn’t have proper warranties for the second shingled layer. Moreover, it creates an extra pressure on the house structure and is also costly during replacement.
So, there are eight basic layers of a proper roof. Install them properly, the roof will serve you without providing any headache.
Verdict
If the basic layers of a roof are placed properly, a roof can last for a longer period of time. Don’t forget to maintain the building code and make sure to inspect the roof’s condition regularly.
