The decking is a structural component of your roofing system. It provides a base for roofing elements like the underlayment and the outer roof layer, be it tiles, shingles, or sheet metal panels. While roof decking damage may seem like a manageable repair job, it is hard to ignore the many reasons why roof decking repairs are not ideal. Our professional roofing and siding team at Empire Roofing & More share more insight.
Hidden Structural Problems
Roof decking often conceals structural problems that are hard to recognize without a professional evaluation. Subtle signs of damage, such as small leaks or trivial cracks, can mask significant issues that need immediate attention.
Limited Longevity of Repairs
Several roofing issues may seem solvable with temporary fixes. However, these rarely provide long-term solutions. DIY patches and repairs might offer relief for the short term. Unfortunately, they can result in recurring costs and continual headaches.
Difficulty Matching Materials
Roof decking is made from a range of materials, including plywood and oriented strand board (OSB). Finding an exact match for your current decking, particularly if your roof is older, can be tricky. Inconsistent materials can lead to uneven weight distribution and other structural concerns.
Lack of Warranty Protection
Typically, DIY repairs aren’t covered under roofing warranties. This leaves you out of pocket for any future issues that may arise. However, roof decking replacements by a professional roofing contractor often come with warranty protection, offering you peace of mind.
Compromised Roof Integrity
Fixing a small part of your roofing without considering the whole structure can compromise its strength and stability. Keep in mind that your roof operates as a unified system, which means a weak link can impact the entire structure.
Unseen Water Damage
Water damage is a serious concern for roofs. While you might patch up visible signs of a leak, it doesn’t guarantee the total eradication of water-related issues. Unseen water damage can also lead to mold growth and rot beneath the surface of your roof.
Pests and Infestations
Pests such as termites and carpenter ants are another hidden threat to roof decking. Even if you manage to repair visible damage, the likelihood of recurring infestations and damage is high without proper pest control strategies put in place.
Considering Roof Decking Replacement
Rather than investing time and resources into fixing recurring issues, a full roof decking replacement might be a more effective solution. It can enhance your roof’s structural integrity and offer long-term peace of mind.
For professional roofing services and exceptional siding solutions in Allison Park and Pittsburgh, PA, turn to Empire Roofing & More. Call us at (412) 999-7135, or fill out our convenient online form for a consultation!
