Signs of Damaged Roof Decking and Why Repairs Aren’t Ideal

Most homeowners tend to forget about the condition of their roof decking. But this important part of your home’s structure is actually what supports your shingles and helps keep your roof maintain its shape. When roof decking becomes damaged, it can lead to all sorts of problems – from leaks to sagging ceilings. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at some signs that your roof decking may be damaged and explain why roof decking repair isn’t the ideal solution.

What is Roof Decking?

Roof decking is the plywood or OSB (oriented strand board) that forms the surface of your roof. It’s usually attached directly to the trusses or rafters and provides a base for your shingles. Roof decking can be either 3/4″ or 1″ thick, and it’s important to make sure that you have enough roof decking to support the weight of your shingles.

Signs of Damaged Roof Decking

If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to have your roof inspected as soon as possible.

Leaky Roof

One of the most obvious signs that your roof decking is damaged is a leaky roof. If you notice water stains on your ceiling or dripping from your gutters, it’s likely that your roof decking is damaged and needs to be replaced.

Sagging Ceiling

Another sign that your roof decking is damaged is a sagging ceiling. This can be caused by water damage, which weakens the plywood or OSB over time. If you notice your ceiling sagging, it’s important to have it checked out by a professional as soon as possible to determine if your roof decking needs to be replaced.

Holes in Your Roof

If you see holes in your roof, it’s a sure sign that your roof decking is damaged and needs to be replaced. These holes can be caused by water damage, pests, or even physical damage from falling tree limbs. Regardless of the cause, it’s important to have your roof decking replaced as soon as possible to avoid further damage to your home.

Other Signs of Damaged Roof Decking

In addition to leaks and holes, there are other signs that your roof decking may be damaged. If you notice any of the following, it’s a good idea to have your roof inspected and request a local roofer for roof replacement in Middletown, NY:

• Cracks or splits in the plywood or OSB
• Nails popping up from the surface of the roof decking
• Visible water damage on the underside of your roof decking

Why You Can’t Repair Damaged Roof Decking

Once roof decking becomes damaged, it can’t be repaired. This is because the damage weakens the structure of the plywood or OSB and makes it more susceptible to further damage. Trying to repair damaged roof decking is not only ineffective, but it can also make the problem worse.

What to Do Instead When Your Roof Decking is Damaged

If your roof decking is damaged, the best thing to do is to replace it. This may seem like a daunting task, but it’s actually not as difficult or expensive as you might think. Replacing your roof decking is a relatively straightforward process, and most roofing contractors will be able to do it in one day. The cost of replacing your roof decking will vary depending on the size of your home and the severity of the damage, but it’s typically a very affordable service.

If you think your roof decking may be damaged, don’t wait to have it inspected by a roof repair professional in Middletown, NY. The sooner you identify the problem, the easier and more affordable it will be to repair. 

For all your roofing needs, call Home Pro Exteriors, Inc. at (845) 343-1777. We offer free estimates on all our services, including siding, so you can be sure you’re getting the best possible deal. Contact us to schedule a consultation today.