Basic Components of a Roofing System

There’s more to your roofing system than meets the eye. It’s made of many components; each serves a different but essential function. Allstate Home Improvement Services, the leading roofing contractor, discusses each of the major components below.

Underlayment

This roofing component is black paper or felt laid over the plywood sheeting. It acts as a final layer of defense protecting your interior from water damage in case it finds its way through your shingles. The underlayment also acts as a sweat sheet or vapor barrier.

Flashing

Your roofer should be extra careful when handling your roof’s flashing. That’s because some contractors see this component as a decorative item on the system when, in fact, these metal pieces are added to repel water from the roof’s areas vulnerable to water intrusion. Such zones include the valleys and the hips.

Shingles

These are the most noticeable part of your roof since they are the outermost layer. Shingle or tile roofing materials sit atop the underlayment. They are the “armor” that safeguards your property from harsh weather conditions. Different types of shingles fit the architectural requirements of a house, although some homeowners prefer other materials for their benefits.

Trim

The trim shields the seams, including the hip and a ridge. It is commonly used with a metal roof to keep the structure moisture-free.

Other Design Elements

Just like other exterior features of your home, your roofing system comes with accessories to enhance its aesthetic appeal. For instance, the ridge is the highest point of your roof, which creates a bold statement. Other components that embellish your roof include the hip, valley and eaves.

Allstate Home Improvement Services, the area’s premier roofing company, is your contractor for choice for the best roofing service you can find this side of America. To learn more about what we can do for you, call us at (631) 228-8990. We serve residents of Smithtown and other nearby areas in NY.