The gable roof is the most popular roof in the United States. It’s the epitome of the pitched roofing system, characterized by two sloping planes that form a prominent triangle. Its design allows it to shed rainwater and debris effortlessly, taking full advantage of gravity to keep itself clear of anything. It provides plenty of attic space and abundant room for ventilation.
Experienced roofers, including Goodrich Roofing, would agree that it is easier to build, and it requires fewer materials than its counterparts with more complicated designs. Here are its major parts and their functions:
Rafters
These are the frames that make up the skeleton of the roof. They rest on the ridge at the top and connect to the outside walls at the bottom. Traditionally, they come in pairs nailed on opposite sides of the ridge. They have to align perfectly, except in instances where one rafter needs to be moved a little to make room for another component.
Decking Boards
Nailed to the rafters, these flat pieces of wood provide a level surface on which to lay the covering. Veteran roofers consider the sheathing as the foundation of the roofing system.
Underlayments
These membranes blanket the entire decking to protect against moisture. They’re usually made from felt, but leading manufacturers like GAF prefer using fiberglass-reinforced and synthetic materials.
Covering
It’s the outermost component of any gable roof. Asphalt shingles are widely used, but metal roofing components have been gaining steam lately. Clay or concrete tiles are never a bad choice as they’re incredibly weather-resistant and stunning.
Flashings
These waterproofing components often operate out of sight, but they’re visible in open-valley roofs. They seal the inherent gaps in intersections between vertical walls and sloping roofs, valleys and penetrations. During replacement projects, reliable roofers never reuse salvageable flashings to prevent leaks.
Learn about the entire anatomy of your roof to help you make an informed decision when replacing its covering. Call Goodrich Roofing at (505) 219-4450 now to discuss your roofing needs and to get a FREE estimate in New Mexico.