When we have in mind to build or renovate the roof of our home, we must take into account the materials that will be used and that will ensure both the longevity of the roof and the safety and comfort it offers to the family. The roof, being the highest part of the house, is supported by both vertical and horizontal structures depending on the design, the geographical location of the house and the climatic changes, such as the cold that decreases the correct adhesion of the strips under the tiles. All these factors influence the components of the roof which we are going to consider next.
What are the common parts of a roof
The deck
It is the structural base of the roof system, which is composed of wood or ½ inch plywood, these are wood strips that are the base to support all the roofing materials, shingles, underlayment sheets and others.
Purlins
They are made of wood or steel, their surface must be uniform and flat, they are horizontal members that support the common beam of the roof and go from wall to wall when the span is large, it is recommended to paint them before installing them.
Ridges and ventilation
It is the horizontal line along the roof, it is the highest point of the roof where the two planes meet, forming an exterior angle of 180 degrees, also called hips, The ventilation is an escape for the warm and humid air of the attic.
Limatesa
It is the interception of the two planes of the roof, which once joined form the ridge slope that goes from the peak to the end of the roof which is the eave.
Flashing
It is a flexible or rigid material made of aluminum, steel or plastic, in the form of molding that is placed around the chimneys to prevent water intrusion from infiltrating the roof vents, plumbing vents.
Underlayment
It is the layer of material that is under the tiles, it serves as support for the placement of the same, this material is found in the market in the form of synthetic compound or felt, its function is to prevent moisture and seepage, the synthetic underlayment, is becoming the best option due to performance, durability and resistance to climatic phenomena.
Gable roofs
Also called rake, it is the triangular part of the exterior wall at the top of the roof between the eaves and a pitched roof.
Eaves and drip edge
An eave is the lower overhanging edge of the roof that is about three feet beyond the wall, and the vent under the eave allows for the extraction of cool, dry air from the attic.
Roof Vents
They are closed structures made of plastic or metal, with fins or openings to provide the attic space with more ventilation, the vents, have 4 open sides that are located on the roof, are the safest, as they produce a suction effect that traps the wind in all directions. There must be an air inlet at the base of the roof to make the attic ventilated, this is achieved with perforations in the eaves.
Attic
It is the space located on the top floor of a building, below the roof. It is also known as the place that hides the cover of the facade or the beginning of the roofs, which must be ventilated to protect the roof in summer against excessive heat and in winter against warm and humid air.
Wall against water and ice
This wall is composed of a self-adhesive waterproofing material that is installed over the eaves of roofs, side walls and exposed areas that may be affected by wind-driven rain and ice.
Shingles
Laminated asphalt shingles offer greater durability, performance and ease of installation, their useful life is 20 to 40 years, they have several layers that make them heavier and thicker so they offer greater resistance to inclement weather, their waterproofing works by gravity. They are more expensive but offer greater warranty, take into account the color and design that best suits your roof. The opposite of these shingles are known as three-tab shingles, but they have a single layer and look flat without the dimension of asphalt shingles.
Roof gutters or downspouts
It is fixed under the eaves of the roofs to collect the water residues of the rains and to conduct them to the drains it is complemented with slopes and accessories of angles in the corners, it is made of galvanized pipes, aluminum, vinyl or pvc.
If you’re in the market for new roofing in Bethel Park PA turn to Pittsabana Contracting Services LLC. This local roofing company employs team members who are certified by CertainTeed and committed to delivering premium service on every job, from repairing storm-damaged commercial buildings to fully replacing residential roofs. Call (412) 580-6567 to speak with a friendly staff member to schedule service or visit the website to learn more about how they’ll help you.
