Understand the Elements of your Jacksonville Home’s Roof
If you are getting a new roof for your Ponte Vedra Beach home or simply having your Jacksonville roof repaired, it will help you to understand the various parts that go into constructing a sturdy roof for your home.
Decking
Also referred to as sheathing, this is the first layer on top of the home’s rafters. Decking is typically made of plywood or oriented strand board (OSB) and is the material onto which the other layers of the roof are attached. Properly installed decking is essential to a sturdy roof.
Underlayment
Roofing underlayment is a thick, water resistant material that helps protect the roof’s decking from moisture. Most residential roofs in the Jacksonville area are constructed with underlayment made of a thick felt that has been impregnated with asphalt, but synthetic underlayments are growing popularity.
Soffit and Ridge Vents
Properly venting a roof is vital to its longevity. In fact, if your roof has asphalt shingles, inadequate ventilation may void the shingle manufacturers warranty and cause the roof to fail prematurely.
Soffit vents are located in the roof’s overhang, or what is often referred to as roof’s eaves. Ridge vents are installed at the top of the roof. Used together, soffit and ridge vents allow air to enter the attic under the eaves and exit from the top of the roof.
Fascia
Fascia is the horizontal piece of material at the end of the roof’s eaves. Wood is a common material for fascia board, but low-maintenance aluminum and synthetic options are gaining market share here in the Jacksonville / Ponte Vedra Beach area
When correctly installed together, soffit vents and fascia seal the roof and prevent rodents and other pests from entering the attic while still allowing adequate air flow through the space.
Flashing
Flashing is an important part of waterproofing a roof. Usually made of metal, flashing prevents water from entering any small openings in the roof. Flashing is typically installed around dormer windows skylights,vents, and chimneys.
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are known for their cost effectiveness and relative ease of installation. The shingles are available in a host of different colors. Laminated asphalt shingles are constructed with a fiberglass backer to increase durability.
Wood Shakes and Shingles
Wood roofs require constant maintenance, but they can last longer than traditional asphalt shingle roofs. The most popular varieties of wood for wood shakes and shingles cedar, redwood, and pine.
Metal Roofs
Metal roofs are growing in popularity in the area, especially in Ponte Vedra Beach and Jax Beach because of their long life span and ultimate protection from the elements. In most cases, metal roofs carry a higher costs than shingle roofs, but when installed properly, a metal roof is virtually maintenance free. And will never need replacement.
Contact the Pros
If you have questions about the parts of your roof or would like a free consultation about your home’s roofing needs – call 904-449-2416 today for a free consultation or to schedule an appointment with Allegiance Roof Systems, LLC of Jacksonville, Florida.
