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What is Roof Sheathing?

There are many different components to a roofing system. While most homeowners are familiar with the shingles and gutters, they may not be as familiar with other aspects of a roof including the flashing, underlayment, or sheathing (also known as decking).

In this article, we will focus on roof sheathing/roof decking. Roof sheathing is a sturdy layer of wood boards that are fixed to the joists and trusses of the roof. The shingles are attached to these wood boards.

What does roof sheathing do?

The primary purpose of roof sheathing is to provide a support system and additional strength for your roof. Sheathing supports the shingles, provides protection against weather elements, and evenly distributes the weight of the roof.

What is roof sheathing made of?

Roof sheathing is usually made from plywood or oriented strand board (OSB). While both materials are wood, they each have their own pros and cons. Plywood is more durable, but this durability comes with a higher price tag. It also is a heavier material. OSB is usually preferred by roofers due to the fact this it is lightweight and is less expensive. OSB might not be the best option if you are using heavier roofing material like concrete or slate roofing tiles.

Other less common roof sheathing materials include wood boards or concrete sheathing. Roof sheathing thickness is usually 5/8” inch thick.

What are the benefits of roof sheathing?

There are a number of key benefits provided by roof sheathing. These benefits include the following:

It helps provide support and strengthens your roof

The weight of shingles can be significant for a roofing structure. Roof sheathing provides the support needed to ensure there isn’t any sagging or bowing of the roof. This helps ensure that the weight is evenly distributed across the roof. This is especially important in cases where there may be heavy amounts of snow or precipitation.

It helps protect against leaks

Roof sheathing provides an additional layer of protection against weather elements, especially if the decking is weatherproof. This increases the lifespan of your roof and protects against water damage.

It helps protect against fires

Roof sheathing or decking can also protect your home from fires. Many of the roof sheathing materials are fire-resistant. This helps prevent fire ignition and it slows the spread of a fire to other parts of the home.

How can you tell when you need new roof sheathing?

Since roof sheathing is such an important part of your roofing system you will want to make sure it is not worn out or damaged. While roof sheathing is usually replaced during the re-roofing process, there are other indicators that may alert you that your sheathing needs to be replaced. Here are four signs to watch out for:

  1. The sheathing is broken – if you can see the broken sheathing boards or if the roof is starting to sag this is a clear sign the sheathing needs to be replaced. This may be the result of too much weight being placed on one area of the roof. For example, if something falls and lands on the roof (like a tree branch). The weight of the object can break the sheathing boards.
  2. A sagging ceiling or roofline – if you see sagging along your roofline or if you see sagging with your ceiling you should call a professional. Both of these problems may indicate a need for new roof sheathing.
  3. Water damage or rot – if you see water stains or leaks on your ceiling, you will need to do further analysis to find the source of the problem. Water damage to sheathing can be especially problematic because it can impact the structure of your roof. Water damage can lead to a number of problems including rotting with the sheathing. If you see darkened spots on the wood it likely means rotting is taking place. If you suspect a leak here is some information on how to find the leak.
  4. Holes of light in the roof – if you see light passing through holes in your roof, you will need to call a roofing professional. Any holes in the roofing system can allow water through the roof and cause long-term problems.

The professionals at Modern Blu Remodeling are here to help with any roof or sheathing problems you may have. If you live in the Flower Mound, Lewisville or greater Dallas area and suspect you may have a leak call our professionals at Modern Blu Remodeling at 469-546-7636, or contact us online to schedule an appointment. We would be happy to provide a free roof inspection!

Start With a Clear Plan

A clear plan keeps your remodel from drifting. Before work begins, list what you want done in each space. Write down the rooms, layout changes, materials, and final look you want.

Modern Blu Remodeling helps homeowners in Flower Mound, Highland Village, and nearby areas sort through these choices early. That gives the team a better way to price the job, order materials, and set a real schedule.

Know What Is Included

Ask for a clear scope of work. This should tell you what the contractor will do and what the price covers. It should also note what is not included. This helps avoid surprises later.

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Make Choices Early

Late choices cause many delays. Pick your tile, floors, cabinets, paint, lights, fixtures, and hardware before work starts when possible.

Some items may take weeks to arrive. If you wait too long, your crew may have to pause while you wait for a sink, cabinet, or countertop. Early choices also help you avoid rush fees and last-minute upgrades that raise the cost.

Do Not Change the Plan Too Much

Changes happen, but too many changes can hurt your timeline and budget. Moving a wall, changing tile, or adding work after the job starts may add labor, materials, and permit needs.

Before you approve a change, ask how it affects the price and finish date.

Set a Real Budget

Your budget should match the work you want. A small bathroom remodeling update will not cost the same as a full kitchen remodel or wall removal. Be honest about what you can spend.

Set aside extra money for things no one can see yet. Old wiring, water damage, weak framing, or plumbing problems can show up after the demo starts. A cushion gives you room to handle these issues without stopping the project.

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Keep Talking During the Project

Good communication keeps everyone on the same page. Ask for updates. Answer questions quickly. Share concerns as soon as you see them.

When you plan well, choose early, and work with a skilled team, you give your remodel the best chance to stay on time and on budget.

Hire the Right Remodeling Team

The right contractor can make a big difference. Look for a team that gives clear answers, listens well, and pays close attention to the small things.

Modern Blu Remodeling offers full-service home improvement, from small updates to large structural changes. Our contractors and subcontractors know their trades and work through each detail with care. That helps your project stay organized from the first meeting to the final walk-through.