A List of Materials Used for Stable Roofing

Roof Covering

• To ensure the most stable roof possible, you must select only the best roof coverings. Asphalt shingles are traditional and inexpensive, but they wear easily and only last a few years. Metal roof coverings, by contrast, can last for decades and withstand moisture, fire and all forms of extreme weather. Strong metal roof coverings include steel, titanium and aluminum, typically sold in sheets (as opposed to shingles).

Structure

• The trusses and rafters make up the foundation of any sturdy roof. The trusses make up the triangular structure that frames a typical residential roof, and they consist of individual beams connected by joints. Roof trusses commonly consist of timber, but if you want your trusses to remain strong and sturdy, always purchase trusses containing high-grade lumber, pre-treated to prevent insect and rot attack. The same should go for your rafters, the sloped beams that support the decking on the underside of the roof.

Decking and Underlayment

• The rafters, as previously outlined, support the decking, which consists of sheet material covering the top of a home. Roof decking is essential to a sturdy roof because it holds the other components together, including the trusses, rafters, insulation and weatherproofing materials. Many types of roof decks exist, but plywood remains a comparatively strong and sturdy choice, when weighed against alternatives like oriental strandboard sheathing. The underlayment consists of sheets of asphalt material that reinforce the decking and protect against moisture penetration. Since moisture can destroy a roofing foundation, the underlayment is essential to a sturdy and long-lasting roof.

Other Materials

• Beyond the essential construction materials, you can further protect and reinforce your roof with additional touches. For example, a roof vent can provide ventilation to the attic, improving the airflow and reducing the chances of dangerous moisture penetration. Roof flashing, which comprises thin layers of sheet metal, can further weatherproof a roof by covering vulnerable areas like the space surrounding a chimney or window, where the standard roof covering can prove insufficient.