Roofing 101
What Is a Roofing System?
A roofing system isn’t just one layer — it’s a complete assembly of materials that work together to keep your home safe, dry, and energy-efficient. Each part plays a specific role in shedding water, resisting wind, managing heat, and protecting the structure underneath. Think of your roof as a team: the deck, underlayment, flashing, covering, and ventilation all support each other.
Core Components of a Roof System
- Roof Deck: This is the wooden surface (usually plywood or OSB) that forms the foundation of your roof. It needs to be solid and secure.
- Underlayment: A waterproof layer that sits directly on the roof deck. This is your roof’s primary waterproof barrier. In South Florida, peel-and-stick membranes are often used for added storm protection.
- Flashing: Metal pieces installed around valleys, chimneys, vents, and edges. They redirect water off the roof and into the gutters to prevent leaks.
- Roof Covering: This is what you see from the street — shingles, tile, metal, or flat roof membranes. It protects the underlayment and adds curb appeal.
- Ridge Vent & Soffit Vent: These allow your attic to breathe, which helps prevent moisture buildup, reduces heat, and extends the life of your roof.
- Fasteners & Adhesives: The nails, screws, and foam adhesives used to secure roofing materials must be chosen based on the type of roof and wind load requirements.
Types of Roofing Systems
- Shingle Roofs: Common, affordable, and available in many colors. Great for most sloped roofs. Shingles are layered in an overlapping pattern to shed water effectively.
- Tile Roofs (Clay or Concrete): Extremely durable and well-suited for Florida’s heat. Tiles are heavy and require a strong deck. They’re installed over robust underlayment systems that do most of the waterproofing.
- Metal Roofs: Modern and long-lasting, with excellent wind resistance. Metal panels protect the waterproof underlayment below and reflect sunlight to keep homes cooler.
- Flat Roofs: Often found on modern homes, porches, or commercial buildings. These use membranes like TPO or modified bitumen to create a watertight seal across a low-slope surface.
Why Each Part Matters
- The underlayment is your first line of defense. If your roof covering is ever compromised (like during a storm), the underlayment is what keeps water out.
- Flashings are key in stopping water where materials meet — these areas are the most vulnerable to leaks.
- Roof coverings provide impact resistance and UV protection and help shield the more critical components underneath.
- Proper ventilation prevents heat buildup and moisture damage inside your attic, reducing energy bills and protecting insulation, framing, and even your AC system.
- Quality installation ensures all parts work together. Even the best materials can fail if not properly installed and sealed.
Warranties, Codes, and Maintenance
Most roofing systems come with manufacturer warranties — but these depend on proper installation and care. In Florida, your roof must also meet strict code requirements, especially in High Velocity Hurricane Zones (HVHZ). After your roof is installed, regular inspections (especially after storms) help identify damage early and keep your system performing as intended.
Final Thoughts
Your roof is one of the most important systems in your home — but it’s also one of the most misunderstood. We hope this Roofing 101 guide gives you a clearer understanding of how it works and why it matters. At Performance Roofing and Impact Windows, we’re here to answer questions and provide expert guidance every step of the way.