Decking is the most important component of a roof. If the decking is not strong or supportive, neither will your roof. Shingles need to lay flat and must be nailed firmly to the decking. If they’re not, they simply will not last.
Roof Decking Provides a Nail-able Surface
Decking on new construction houses nowadays is 7/16″ OSB plywood at a minimum. Decades ago, the construction industry used 3/8″ plywood or wood plank boards, also called 1×6. 7/16″ is the new code minimum for decking thickness, so if your home has only 3/8″, this would leave you far short of minimum thickness.
Shingles Conform to the Roof Decking
Shingles are flexible when warm; thus, they conform to the surface that is under them. Replacing boards that are soft and sagging is extremely important. Plank-style boards that are wider than 6″ can curve upwards over time. If shingles don’t lay flat, they tend to not seal properly, and eventually, they blow off.
Roof Decking Needs to Hold Up in Storms
Having the right size of plywood and making sure that plywood is fully secured to the rafters is extremely important. After the roof is torn off, make sure that all loose plywood is re-nailed. Shingles are only as good as the surface to which they are nailed.
Manufacturers’ Specifications Detail Decking Requirements
If the decking issues were not addressed when you installed your new roof, there is a great chance that if you ever needed to file a claim because of a defect in the shingles themselves, the warranty could be voided.
Decking is the base of the whole roofing system. At Green Country Roofing, we always make sure that your roof meets these requirements and never shy away from getting in the attic if needed. For more information, contact us at (918) 607-7409.