Why Your Roof Is So Important

Your roof is an intricate structure that is integral to the overall health of your home. It directly correlates to your home's overall energy-efficiency and value. It is your first line of defense against the elements, so it's crucial that you are able to trust the integrity and security that your roof provides. It’s important that you understand what materials and structural components make up your roof to maximize your home-owning experience. 

Here are the most common features and components of modern roofs:

1. Ridge— The top intersection of two opposite adjoining roof surfaces. 

2. Ridge board— The board that follows along under the ridge. 

3. Roof rafters— The structural members that support the roof. 

4. Collar beam— Not a beam at all; this tie keeps the roof from spreading and connects similar rafters on opposite sides of the roof. 

5. Roof insulation— An insulating material (usually rock wool or fiberglass) in a blanket form placed between the roof rafters to keep a house warm in the winter and cool in the summer. 

6. Roof sheathing— The boards that provide the base for the finished roof. In newer construction, roof sheathing is composed of sheets of plywood, or oriented strand board (OSB).

7. Roofing— The wood, asphalt or asbestos shingles— or tile, slate, or metal— that form the outer protection against the weather. 

8. Cornice— A decorative element made of molded members, usually placed at or near the top of an exterior or interior wall. 

9. Gutter— The trough that gathers rainwater from a roof. 

10. Downspout— The pipe that leads the water down from the gutter. 

11. Storm sewer tile— The underground pipe that receives the water from the downspouts and carries it to the sewer. In newer construction, plastic-type materials have replaced tile. 

12. Gable— The triangular end of a building with a sloping roof. 

13. Barrage board— The fascia or board at the gable just under the edge of the roof. 

14. Louvers— A series of slanted slots arranged to keep out rain, yet allow ventilation.

The roof is one of the most important parts of your home. It provides protection and insulation and helps reduce energy costs. A well maintained roof will raise your property’s value and prevent you from spending potentially tens of thousands of dollars on maintenance. That is why it is important that your roof is in the best possible condition. If your roof is in poor shape, your home can get leaks, develop mold and mildew, and experience other problems. At Douglas Roofing, we are committed to providing industry-leading roofing services to our clients in Virginia and Maryland. If you're considering a roof replacement or repair, contact us today to discuss your project and schedule a free estimate.