A residential roof is a complex roofing system consisting of several materials that work together to protect your home from the weather and the harsh elements. Among its most integral components is the decking, which provides a foundation for the rest of the roof’s layers including the underlayment and the covering.
Today, the roofing and siding experts of Empire Contractors LLC take a closer look at the roof decking and its importance.
About the Roof Decking
Also known as the sheathing, the roof decking consists of boards that fill the spaces between the roof’s trusses and joists. This creates a flat plane where the underlayment and outer roof covering are attached or fastened during installations. The decking also serves as an additional barrier against heat and noise. Its underside can be filled with roofing insulation to promote home comfort and energy efficiency.
Various materials can be used as roof decking, depending on roofing requirements. Oriented strand board (OSB) is a widely popular choice of decking because of its durability and affordability. The same can be said for construction-grade plywood, which is installed with spacing between boards to allow for thermal expansion and contraction.
Primary Functions of Roofing Decking
Roof decking serves numerous important functions. For one, it provides support for all of the weight on a roof, including the underlayment and outer roofing materials, like asphalt shingles, metal panels, clay tiles and slate. It also helps distribute weight throughout your home’s structure, allowing the whole roofing system to withstand severe weather.
Decking cannot be guaranteed to protect against fire. However, in some instances, flame retardants are sprayed on the plywood to help slow down the spread. Of course, sturdy decking or sheathing provides another line of defense against leaks.
Empire Contractors LLC is your leading exterior home improvement contractor specializing in installing roofing systems and gutters. Give us a call at (513) 244-2200 or fill out our contact form for a free inspection. We serve residents of Cincinnati, OH, and the surrounding communities.