Key Takeaways:
- Your home’s roof is more than just the shingles you can see. It’s a multi-layered unit that’s specifically designed to protect your home from wind, rain, snow, and heat.
- A properly functioning roof system also includes adequate attic ventilation and drainage.
- There are many types of outer roofing layers that are popular with Massachusetts homeowners, including asphalt shingles, architectural shingles, and metal.
The roof is one of the most important parts of your house. That’s why it’s worth getting to know what it’s made of and what each layer does to protect you.
Whether you’ve just bought your first house or have lived in your home for decades, Flynn Roofing helps you learn about your roof. The more you know, the easier it’ll be to maintain and repair.
The Layers of Your Roof
The roof is not a single layer of shingles. Beneath what you can see, there are several layers that help maintain your roof’s structure, durability, shape, and leak protection.
From the bottom up, here are the typical layers of most residential homes.
Decking (Sheathing)
The deck is the base layer of a roof where all other components attach. It’s usually made from plywood or oriented strand board (OSB), providing support for the rest of the roof. To function well, the deck must be strong and dry.
OSB is usually cheaper, while plywood offers better moisture resistance. Whichever material you use, it must meet local building codes regarding thickness, which typically ranges from 7/16 inch to 3/4 inch, depending on the spacing of the supporting beams.
Leak (Moisture) Barrier
The leak (or moisture) barrier is a protective shield installed on a roof to prevent water damage by adding extra protection in places where water collects. The right leak barrier will protect your home from water damage in the harsh MA weather.
There are three main types of leak barriers:
- Asphalt-saturated felt (#15 and #30): The more traditional and affordable option, with #30 being thicker and more durable. However, either type might wrinkle or tear in heat.
- Synthetic underlayment: Made from lightweight synthetic materials like polypropylene, this option is popular for its durability against wind and sunlight.
- Self-adhering membranes: These peel-and-stick barriers are perfect for the most vulnerable areas of the roof.
According to the 2024 International Residential Code, low-slope roofs (between 2:12 and 4:12) require two layers of underlayment for asphalt shingles, while steeper roofs only need one. This is related to how water drains on flatter surfaces.
Flashing
This layer adds extra protection against moisture under the shingles, safeguarding the roof from rain and melting snow.
Flashing, which is usually made of galvanized steel, aluminum, or copper, is placed at every spot where the roof meets a wall or changes direction. If it fails, water might reach the roof’s decking or framing and rot the materials.
Shingles
Now we get to the part of the roof you can see: the shingles.
This layer helps direct water away but isn’t completely waterproof. Shingles protect your home from rain, snow, wind, and sun, and come in various styles and colors to match your home. If energy efficiency matters to you, the type and color of your roof can help. Also, if you’re considering solar panels, the age and condition of your roof will influence whether they can be installed.
Ventilation and Drainage
Proper ventilation is part of a roof’s health. When there’s not enough air circulation under the roof, moisture and heat get trapped, leading to damage. A roof needs both intake vents at the eaves and exhaust vents at the peak, like ridge vents, for good airflow. Ridge vents allow warm, moist air to escape while letting fresh air in, helping to maintain attic temperature and extend the roof’s life.
Gutters and downspouts are also important for directing rainwater away from the roof. If gutters are clogged or sloped incorrectly, water can back up and damage the foundation layers.
Common Roofing Materials for Massachusetts Homes
The best roofing materials for Massachusetts homes balance value with durability. You need materials that can withstand harsh nor’easters as well as heavy snows – while also staying within your budget.
Some popular roofing materials in MA include:
- Architectural shingles: Long-lasting, highly durable, and generally low-cost.
- Asphalt shingles: One of the most common types of roofing materials in MA due to their low cost, long lifespan, ease of installation, and high durability.
- Metal: Higher upfront cost, but outstanding lifespan and durability.
For many homeowners, aesthetics are also a consideration. Some styles, such as metal roofs, add a sleek, modern look to your home, but might be out of place on an older or historical structure. As you decide on shingle materials, take into account your home’s overall look along with your personal preferences. A reliable roofing contractor may be able to help you choose the best materials for your budget and style.
FAQ: Roofing Layers and Materials
Q: Can I reshingle a new roof over my old one?
A: That depends. Massachusetts has something called the 2-Layer Roofing Rule (section R905 of Massachusetts State Building Code 780 CMR) that states, for structural integrity and safety purposes, there may be no more than two layers of asphalt shingles on a residential roof.
If you’re not sure how many layers of shingles your roof currently has, call a reliable roofer for an inspection.
Q: Why does my roof leak?
A: The most common cause of roof leaks is water getting in through damaged or improperly installed flashing around the chimneys, valleys, and other penetrations in your roof’s structure.
Flynn Roofing: For All Your Roofing Needs
Whether you’re in need of a minor roof repair or a whole new roof, call the best roofers in Massachusetts. We’re a family-owned company that has been providing outstanding roofing services for Massachusetts homeowners since 1997.
Residents in Middlesex, Norfolk, Plymouth, or Suffolk Counties can contact us for a no-obligation, free estimate. Or call us at 617-479-3431 or 781-718-8087 for emergency roof repairs.