When it comes to residential roofing, shingle roofing stands out as one of the go-to choices for homeowners, and it’s not hard to see why. It’s reliable, good-looking, and doesn’t break the bank. In Canada, shingle roofs, especially those made with asphalt shingles, are everywhere. Why? They’re budget-friendly, easy to install, and offer plenty of options when it comes to colors and styles, making it easy for homeowners to find something that suits their taste.
But there’s more to shingle roofing than meets the eye. Beneath that top layer you see, there are multiple layers working together to keep your home protected. If you’re thinking about getting a new roof or just want to understand your existing one better, knowing these layers is a great place to start. Let’s dive into the five key layers that make shingle roofs so effective at what they do.
1. Roof Decking – The Foundation
The first and most important part of shingle roofing is the roof decking. Think of it as the base that everything else sits on. Without a strong foundation, your entire shingle roof would be at risk. Roof decking is typically made from plywood or oriented strand board (OSB) and is secured to the house’s frame. It provides a solid surface for all the other layers to be attached.
A sturdy decking layer ensures that your roof can hold up against wind, rain, and other elements. If you’re working with a shingle roofer or planning to replace or repair your roof, they will always check the condition of the decking first. If it’s weak or damaged, it needs to be fixed before anything else goes on top. This step is crucial for long-term protection and stability of your shingle roofs.
2. Ice and Water Barrier – First Line of Defense
The ice and water barrier is a critical layer in shingle roofing that often goes unnoticed but does a lot of heavy lifting. This layer is placed on top of the roof decking, mainly in areas prone to water buildup, like eaves, valleys, and around chimneys. Its main job is to keep water from seeping into the roof structure, especially when ice dams or heavy rain threaten to cause leaks.
For homes with sloped roofing, this barrier offers an extra level of protection against harsh weather conditions. By sealing potential weak spots, it stops water from finding its way underneath the shingles and into your home. Whether you’re working with a shingle roofer or tackling a roofing project yourself, including a proper ice and water barrier is a smart move to safeguard your roof and extend its life.
3. Underlayment – The Extra Protective Shield
The underlayment is another important layer in shingle roofing that often gets overlooked but plays a big role in keeping your home safe and dry. This layer sits between the roof decking and the shingles, acting as an extra barrier to protect against water, wind, and other weather elements. It’s like a shield that adds another line of defense, keeping moisture out if the shingles ever get damaged or worn down.
There are different types of underlayment that shingle roofers often use. The most common ones are felt underlayment, made from asphalt-saturated paper, and synthetic underlayment, which is stronger and more resistant to tears. Whichever type is used, the underlayment ensures that shingle roofs have extra protection against leaks and other issues that can weaken the roof structure over time. This layer is key in helping sloped roofing stay durable and in good condition, even during rough weather.
4. Starter Shingles – Laying the Groundwork
Starter shingles are the unsung heroes of shingle roofing. These specially designed shingles go on before the main shingles and are installed along the edges of your roof. Their job is to create a secure base and ensure a tight seal at the roof’s edges. This prevents wind and water from sneaking under the outer shingle roofs during bad weather, like strong winds or heavy rain.
Without starter shingles, the main shingles would be more vulnerable to damage, and your entire roof could be at risk. Shingle roofers know the importance of this layer for creating a strong bond and boosting wind resistance. So, whether you have sloped roofing or a different style, having properly installed starter shingles gives your roof a better chance of standing up to the elements and lasting longer.
5. Outer Shingles – The Protective and Aesthetic Layer
The outer shingles are what you see when you look at a shingle roof, and they do more than just make your home look good. This layer is the first line of defense against the elements, protecting your house from rain, wind, sun, and even hail. Made from materials like asphalt, wood, or composite, these shingles come in a variety of colors and styles, letting you pick a look that suits your home’s design.
Beyond appearance, outer shingles are built for toughness. When installed by professional shingle roofers, they form a durable, weather-resistant barrier that works with the other layers of shingle roofing to keep your home safe. The design of these shingles is especially effective on sloped roofing, where they help direct water away and ensure your roof can withstand harsh conditions.
If you ever notice broken shingles, addressing the issue quickly is crucial to avoid further damage. Learn about the 5 Essential Steps for Shingle Roofing to Take When You Spot Broken Shingles here.
Shingle roofing is equivalent to Onion!
Every shingle roof is made up of multiple layers that work together to protect your home and give it a great look. From the sturdy roof decking that forms the base to the final layer of outer shingles that add style and strength, each part plays a crucial role. Shingle roofing offers both durability and aesthetic appeal, making it a popular choice for many homeowners.
By understanding the purpose of each layer—like the protective ice and water barrier, the extra shield of underlayment, and the secure base created by starter shingles—you can see why this type of roofing stands the test of time. If you’re thinking about installing, repairing, or learning more about shingle roofs, consider reaching out to a trusted shingle roofer to ensure every layer is in top shape. Your roof’s strength and longevity depend on it!