When you get a residential roof replacement, the roofer has to think about more than just putting on new shingles. The condition of the plywood deck also has to be determined so repairs can be made if needed. A residential roof system consists of the deck, underlayment, and shingles.

When you get a new roof, the roofer puts on new underlayment and shingles, but the deck isn't replaced unless it has water damage. Here's why it's important for the roofer to check the roof deck and replace or repair it if needed.

Mold Can Grow On The Roof If The Deck Is Damp

When you get a roof replacement, the roofer has a choice between tearing off all of your old roof or just covering it with new roofing. The risk to covering the old roofing is that water damage on the deck might be covered up if the roofer doesn't know about it.

When the deck is kept damp, mold can grow and become a problem. The mold can grow inside your attic and give your home a foul, musty odor. If wet areas on the deck are found, they should be replaced before your new roof is put on to avoid issues with mold.

A Water-Damaged Deck Might Collapse

One of the worst things that can happen if the deck has water damage is that the wood rots and gets weak. This can cause the deck to sag, and it might even collapse. This could happen if you walk on the deck, and that's a dangerous situation.

Depending on the way the roof collapses, the structure of your home can be affected. While that may be a worst-case scenario, you can eliminate the possibility of your deck rotting away by making sure the deck is dry before covering it with new shingles.

Your New Roof May Not Last Very Long

A residential roof replacement is usually a significant investment. You want your roof to last as long as possible so you get good value for the money you spend. However, when a bad deck causes problems with roof moisture, mold, and sagging, your new shingles have a shorter lifespan.

If you have to replace the deck later, the new roofing has to be torn off to reach the deck, so it's best to start with a solid, dry deck before applying the new roofing materials. Your roofing contractor checks the deck when you get your roof replacement and replaces areas that have any damage. Your entire deck doesn't need to be replaced unless the whole deck is bad. Making spot repairs ensures problems with water-damaged decking can be avoided.

To have your roof examined, contact a local roofer such as Sombreros Roofing today.