Roof sheathing has another common name, roof decking. Your sheathing is the foundation of your roof system. The sheathing is nailed directly to rafters, trusses, or roofing joists to shield them from the elements. Additionally, your sheathing acts as the foundation of your roofing system. Your roof sheathing needs to be adhered to your home correctly and in good condition so that it may support your roof system. Roof sheathing is most often plywood or OSB. 

What Are the Signs That I Need to Replace My Roof Sheathing? 

Shanco takes the condition of your roof sheathing seriously. We cannot determine the condition of your sheathing without tearing off everything on top of it. Having structurally sound roof decking will help prevent some problems with your roof. If your sheathing is stained, moldy, or shows evidence of wear, we will replace it. A Shanco roof is built to last, and it all starts with a solid foundation of roof sheathing.  

What Problems Can Arise with Roof Sheathing? 

One of the most important things with roof decking is spacing between the boards. You need spacing because wood can shrink and expand with hot and cold weather. If there is inadequate spacing, your shingles will pay the price. This fluctuation may cause your shingles to buckle and expose your home to moisture.  

Ventilation can cause problems with roof sheathing too. If hot and humid conditions persist in your attic, the formation of mold, mildew and eventual rot may occur. If you have an undetected leak, the sheathing will become wet, and rot will ultimately set in.  

Is Decking Different from Sheathing? 

No, decking and sheathing are the same things when it comes to your roof. 

Is Having Plywood Decking Necessary? 

Your decking is the solid, flat surface for the remaining bit of your roofing system to rest on. Without it, you will not have a base to attach shingles. It is necessary to have a solid roof deck in place. 

What is Plywood Decking? 

Plywood can be used for numerous projects in and around your home. Its versatility makes it an extremely common product in and around construction sites. It is durable and inexpensive. It is comprised of numerous layers of wood that are glued together. The number of layers glued together will affect the thickness of the plywood. Plywood comes in thicknesses ranging from ¼" to 1 inch thick. You most typically find plywood panels in 4’ x 8’ sheets.   

Plywood Decking for Your Roof 

In roofing applications, it will be used to cover the roof joists and trusses. The decking acts as a shield to prevent shingles from being nailed directly on the structural parts of your roof. Your plywood decking also helps to evenly distribute the weight of your shingles. Finally, it can help insulate your home and slow the spread of a fire.  

How Strong is Plywood Decking? 

Roofers and construction companies use plywood because it is strong. It must be strong to support the weight of your roof shingles. Not to mention, the weight of weather events ties directly to the strength of plywood. Heavy ice and snow mean that your roof must be able to withstand additional weight on our roof.  

Additionally, if your roof is at a lower pitch, it will have to be able to hold larger weight loads because the snow and ice may rest on the roof longer versus sliding off with a steeper pitch.  

How Is Plywood Decking Made? 

Plywood decking is made by gluing together thin pieces of wood. The glue is a resin that will start to break down when exposed to moisture. 

What is The Thickness of Plywood Decking? 

Since plywood has a variety of everyday applications, it is imperative that it comes in different thicknesses. It can be as thin as ¼" and as thick as 1”. The thickness used on your roof will depend on several factors, such as the pitch and spacing of your trusses.  

Is Your Roof Sheathing in Poor Condition? 

If you have an active roof leak, contact the top-rated roofing experts at Shanco. We serve the Washington DC metro area, NOVA and Richmond, VA. We offer free roof inspections and offer different financing options for your next roof replacement project. Contact us today to get started!