When you look at a roof from the curb or the street, you most likely only see tiles or shingles; the top layer of the material. But a residential roof is actually made up of a complex assembly of layers! These layers work together to protect your home, regulate attic temperatures, and keep heavy rain out of your home. If you’re a homeowner, developing a good understanding of the layers of a roof helps you keep your investment safe.
For a roof to stand the test of weather and time, you need materials that are tough enough to withstand the Oklahoma weather and a contractor you can trust.
The Anatomy of a Roof
Each layer of a roof plays an important role in keeping moisture out and providing structure and protection for your home.
The roof deck, or sheathing, is the structural foundation of the roof. Plywood or manufactured boards (like oriented strand board) are nailed directly to your rafters. These will support the entire weight of the roofing system above, so they have to be strong!
Next is the underlayment. Roofers roll this material directly over the wood deck. It creates a secondary, water-resistant barrier. If any wind-driven rain slips past the outer shingles, the underlayment stops the water from soaking into the roof decking.
Vulnerable spots like roof valleys and eaves catch standing water. Installers apply a self-adhering waterproof membrane in these areas to seal tightly around nails.
Then, starter strips lock the bottom row of shingles down against high winds. The primary shingles then sit on top, blocking UV rays and directing water straight into your gutters.
Metal flashing is a thin, rust-resistant sheet of metal, usually aluminum or galvanized steel. It’s installed at vulnerable joints and angles on a roof where leaks might be likely to occur. Because water naturally flows down a roof and tends to pool or seep into corners, flashing is shaped to bridge the gaps and redirect rainwater away from seams and down safely over the shingles. You’ll find metal flashing around chimneys, skylights, plumbing vent pipes, and more- pretty much any part of the roof that’s potentially susceptible to leaking.
What are Some Popular Roofing Materials in Oklahoma?
Oklahomans enjoy scorching heat in summer, high winds, and occasionally severe hail. These conditions demand specific roofing materials. Asphalt shingles are popular and provide a good combination of cost efficiency, curb appeal, and impact resistance. Multi-layered shingles are also great at handling wind.
Standing seam and corrugated metal roofs offer incredible longevity. Metal systems easily reflect solar radiation, resist heavy hail, and handle high wind uplift.
Concrete and clay tiles bring a unique architectural style and superior fire resistance. Their heavy weight requires a reinforced framing system.
What to Look For in a Quality Roofing Contractor
Even the very best roofing materials fail if someone installs them incorrectly. When you hire an Oklahoma City roofer, you should seek out some important qualifications.
A contractor with a permanent local address and a proven community history is always a good idea. Avoid out-of-town storm chasers who vanish after the work is done, and vet national companies carefully.
Always request proof of General Liability and Worker’s Compensation Insurance. A good, reputable company provides these documents to you readily to protect you from liability.
The best contractors hold factory certifications from major brands. These credentials allow them to offer extended warranties that standard handymen aren’t able to provide.
Trustworthy, established local roofers write clear estimates outlining the cost of labor, material grades, and timelines without any hidden fees.
Make the Investment for Long-Term Protection
Your roof keeps you, your family, and your belongings safe through every seasonal shift in weather. Understanding the layers and general construction of a roof and then hiring an experienced Oklahoma City roofer keeps your home safe.
At Jenco, we provide honest assessments and expert craftsmanship. Request a roof consultation today and get some peace of mind, knowing that your home is truly protected!
