A Roof Is a System, Not Just Shingles
Shingles are the part everyone sees, but they're only one layer of a roofing system. A roof that lasts is built from the deck up, with each component doing a specific job. Comparing quotes on shingle brand alone misses most of what determines whether a new roof performs for decades.
- Roof deck: solid sheathing, with any rotted or delaminated boards replaced before anything goes on top.
- Ice & water shield: a self-adhering membrane along eaves, valleys and around penetrations where ice dams and heavy water flow happen.
- Synthetic underlayment: a secondary water-resistant layer across the rest of the deck.
- Drip edge: metal edging that directs water into the eavestrough and protects the fascia.
- Flashing: properly installed step, counter, valley and penetration flashing, not caulking as a substitute.
- Ventilation: balanced intake at the soffits and exhaust near the ridge to keep the attic cool and dry.
- Shingles and ridge caps installed to the manufacturer's nailing and exposure specifications.












