What Are the Parts That Get Replaced in a Roof Replacement?

• Nathan Brown
• 2 months ago
• Categories: Roofing
• Tags: asphalt shingles, installation, repairs, replacement, residential

While you’re not expected to replace your own roof, knowing the process can help you make informed decisions on what materials should and shouldn’t be included. Local roofing company Howard Roofing & Home Improvements takes a look at the parts of the roof that gets replaced during a roof replacement.

Roofing Parts That Get Replaced

The first step of the roof replacement involves tearing down the parts that will need to be replaced. Here are the parts, in order of installation:

• Decking. The roof deck is the flat surface that’s made of plywood or OSB (oriented strand board). It’s the part that sits on the framing and provides a substrate for the other roofing components. Sometimes the decking is left on the roof if it’s in good condition.
• Underlayment. The underlayment is installed on top of the decking and serves as a barrier that prevents contact with moisture. It also serves as a secondary layer of protection if the outer layer of roofing material is damaged.
• Moisture barrier. Also known as ice and water shield, the moisture barrier seals the underlayment seams and edges. It also protects vulnerable areas such as seams.
• Flashing. Flashing is the strips of metal that protect valleys and other areas vulnerable to leaks. This includes the drip edge (the flashing at the roof’s edge) and the rubber boots (the soft flashing that protects the base of vent pipes).
• Outer roofing. The outer part of the roof consists of the asphalt shingles, sheet metal, tile or slate, along with accessories like ridge caps and vents.

Once the parts listed above are stripped, the roof undergoes a second inspection for signs of damage. Repairs may need to be done before new roofing can be installed.

Installation vs. Replacement

The terms “installation” and “replacement” are often used interchangeably, but they are really two different processes. Installation is a new build. On existing homes, this means completely removing the roofing frame, which provides an opportunity for structural changes like increasing the roof’s slope. On the other hand, replacement involves stripping the roof down to the decking, as described above.

Planning on getting a new roof? Your local roofers at Howard Roofing & Home Improvements are here to help. Give us a call at (636) 296-1057, or fill out our contact form to schedule a consultation. We serve St. Louis, MO, and the surrounding communities.