What Goes into Building a Shingled Roof in Baton Rouge?

There is a lot to be said for understanding how something is built. For a doctor, knowing how the body works, or how a body part is supposed to look, feel and act is imperative for treatment. Your roof is very similar. When a problem arises, the ability to first recognize the problem, and the knowledge to correct it can save you a tremendous amount of time, money and headaches.

So whether you’ve noticed a few loose shingles, a leak over the living room or some debris after a storm, understanding how a shingled roof is built will give you the ability to understand the magnitude of a potential problem and how to fix it. While there is definitely more than one way to skin a cat, below is a general rundown of what goes into building a roof.

First, the different layers of a roof:

1.) Underlayment: The underlayment is the black paper that covers the plywood sheeting to protect the home from the elements. A membrane is commonly used with this material as well for waterproofing.

2.) Flashing: This is a key component to your roof. Flashing is a strategically placed metal piece that diverts water away from vulnerable areas where it may collect.

3.) Shingles : Here is the top layer that is visible. Shingles can be made of a variety of different materials, as well as a number of features. Between the actual material from which the shingles are made to the UV reflective coating, shingles can offer efficiency and lifespan benefits for your home and roof.

Secondly, the different design areas of a roof:

1.) Ridge- The highest point of the roof.

2.) Hip- The high point, where two adjoining roof sections meet.

3.) Valley- When two sections of roof slope downward and meet.

4.) Pitch- How steep the roof is.

5.) Eaves- Areas of the roof that hang over a part of the home.

6.) Gables- These are triangular areas on the ends of the home. They extend from the eaves to the peak of the roof.

7.) Dormer- Areas of the home that protrude from the roof.

Just as the different layers of the roof react different ways to different elements, so do the different design areas. Now that you are familiar with the parts and pieces of the roof, recognizing problems and finding remedies may be easier. Cribbs Incorporated knows the various pieces, areas and materials of a roof better than anyone, they’ve been caring for roofs in Baton Rouge for over 50 years. For a free estimate, click here .