One of the most common roofing questions we get asked is, “can damaged roof decking be repaired?” The short answer is “no”. Considering that most other parts of the roof are repair-friendly, this is probably not something that homeowners would want to hear. In today’s post, Genesis Roofing explains the role of roof decking and why it must be replaced when damaged.
What Is Roof Decking?
The roof decking is a layer of plywood or OSB (oriented strand board) that covers the rafters or trusses. It provides a flat surface for installing the underlayment and outer roofing material. Since the decking is installed over the framing, the side that faces the attic has cavities that can be filled with cellulose or expanding foam insulation. Roof decking that’s kept in good condition can be used for two roof installations.
What Causes Damage to the Roof Decking?
The roof deck is vulnerable to damage caused by moisture infiltration, which happens when the outer roofing is damaged by wind or impact. As decking is typically made of wood, contact with moisture can lead to rot. This is the reason why standard sloped roofing systems have an underlayment installed between the decking and the outer roofing material — it serves as a second layer of protection in case the outer roofing fails. This is also the reason why roofs have drip edges. They’re a type of flashing that helps prevent rainwater from infiltrating through the roof edges.
Why Isn’t Roof Decking Repairable?
Roof decking supports the components that cover the roof. Being made of large boards, one can’t get to the roof deck without tearing out the shingles and underlayment that cover it, which would make spot repairs impractical. Fortunately, most causes of the moisture infiltration that lead to damage to the roof deck can be prevented with regular roofing inspections and timely repairs. Keeping up with scheduled roofing maintenance appointments can likewise help prevent moisture infiltration, or mitigate its effects if signs of roofing leaks are present.
Genesis Roofing is your leading provider of roof replacement and repair services. Give us a call at (515) 202-1667. You can also fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment. We serve customers in Des Moines, IA, and the surrounding communities.
