How to Tell if Your Roof Decking Is Damaged

The roof deck, also called the sheathing, is one of the most critical components of your roofing system. Commonly made with plywood or oriented strand board, the roof deck is the material placed beneath the underlayment and above the rafters. It needs to be strong to bear the weight of the shingles and flexible enough to give in slightly under load.

In this post, our roofing experts share the signs of a damaged deck and why it cannot be repaired.

Common Signs of a Damaged Roof Deck

While you will need the expertise of a roofing professional to confirm whether your roof deck needs replacement, there are a few easy-to-spot signs you can notice:

• Holes or leaks in the roof
• Stains on the ceilings or in the walls
• A sagging roofline
• Missing, curling or buckling shingles
• Mold or mildew in the attic
• Deterioration around roof fixtures like skylights, vents and chimneys
• Significant changes in the cooling and heating bills

Why You Should Replace Your Deck When Getting New Shingles

If you are getting new shingles, it often makes sense to have your roof deck replaced at the same time. If you have missing or damaged shingles, there is a big chance that moisture has infiltrated the system and reached the deck, resulting in notable damage like rot. And because the deck is primarily made of wood, it should be replaced completely when affected by rot. The thing is, your roofer needs a solid foundation on which to install the shingles, so getting the work done at once allows you to get the most out of your investment. Talk with your roofer about weatherproofing options for installation between the shingles and the deck for extra protection from the elements.

Need Help From a Roofing Professional?

From seasonal roof jobs and roof inspections to roof repairs and roof replacements, US Roofing has got you covered. You can count on our professional team to deliver great results on time and within budget. Just give us a call at (978) 532-6300 or fill out our online form to schedule an appointment.