Usually, when a homeowner has their roof replaced, the shingles are simply stripped off and new ones are nailed to the roof surface. Sometimes, though, the roofer may discover that a little more work needs to be done. Here are some of the extra steps that might need to be taken during a roof replacement.
Partial or Full Roof Deck Replacement
The roof deck is the wood that lays across the roof trusses. On most homes, it is made from plywood, but if your home is older, the roof deck might be made from solid wood planks. Usually, if you have your roof replaced as soon as it starts significantly deteriorating, the roof deck won't suffer any damage and won't need to be replaced. However, if it takes you a while to get around to replacing the roof, then the roof deck might be exposed to some moisture. It may start to deteriorate in places, and the roofer will need to replace those parts of the roof deck. It's rare for the whole deck to need replacement, but more common for a sheet or two of plywood to need to be replaced.
Flashing Replacement
Flashing is the metal that is typically placed in roof valleys. It is also wrapped around the base of chimneys and vents. It exists to prevent leaks in these more leak-prone areas. Metal lasts longer than shingles, so the flashing does not always need to be replaced when you have a roof replacement. However, if the flashing is peeling, rusting, or otherwise damaged, your roofer may want to replace it while they're replacing the rest of your roof. This is not a huge job, but it will add a bit of time and expense to your re-roofing.
Vent Additions
When your roofer is examining your old roof, they may notice that it seems to have been exposed to excessive moisture or heat throughout its lifespan. This usually indicates that the roof was not as well vented as it could have been. So, your roofer will recommend having some vents added during the roof replacement. A ridge vent, which stretches along the whole peak of the roof, is a common option. They may also add some soffit vents under the overhangs.
If your roofer recommends any of these updates or upgrades during your roof replacement, don't be alarmed. While these improvements are not always needed, they are not at all uncommon. For more information on a roofing replacement, contact a company near you.
