The term “roofing system” refers to the assembly consisting of multiple layers and structures that form the topmost layer of any building envelope. While the number and the type of the layers is different for each roof type, here are the most common components of roof structures:
- The roof’s support system – this subsystem consists of trusses, rafters and other supporting elements and it plays the role of holding all the higher roof layers;
- Decking – also called sheathing, the decking is the layer that covers the support system and provides a surface suitable for installing the roof covering. The decking usually consists of plywood particleboard sheets;
- The roof covering – the topmost layer of the roof might consist of smaller elements, such as tiles or shingles, or of larger elements, such as sheets. The range of materials used for building this layer is very wide and varied;
- Flashing – flashing is the term used for the stripes used on the roof in areas where the continuance of the roof is disrupted and needs reinforcement. The stripes can be made from metal, from rubber and for many other types of strong and durable materials;
-
The drainage system – every
roof needs gutter pipes and the downspouts that drive the rain and the melted
snow away from the roof to protect it from water damage. It's good to hire roofing companies like Expert Roofing to do roofing system installations.