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What Are the Components of a Roof?

December 08, 2022

A residential home showcasing the different roof components

When it's time to talk to a contractor about a roof repair or replacement, knowing the components of a roof and how they help protect your home can help you navigate the decisions you need to make throughout the process.

What Is the Purpose of a Roofing System?

The main purpose of a roofing system is to shield buildings — and the people and things inside them—from the exterior climate or weather conditions. This includes immediate protection from wind, rain, hail, snow, heat, cold, and sun — as well as the long-term impacts of these weather elements. The roofing system must also be able to shed moisture and provide insulation. As the name suggests, a roofing "system" is composed of several components of a roof that work together to provide the best overall protection (as well as curb appeal!) for your home.

What Are the Structural Components of a Roof?

Before you approach a contractor, it pays to have a basic understanding of the anatomy of your roof. To begin, here are the principal parts making up its underlying structure:

Rafters: The framework of internal beams running from the ridge (the peak) of the roof to the eave (the edge). Rafters form the base of a roof's supporting structure.
Roof truss: A popular alternative to rafters, these structural roof components are shorter and often lighter. Using them means the roof's weight can be distributed to the external rather than internal walls, which allows architects more freedom when designing interior living spaces. Truss frameworks are made up of three or more pieces, usually in the shape of a triangle. As with rafters, they support the roof decking and structure.
Decking/sheathing: The structural base of the roof that the roofing components are installed over and secured to. Decking or sheathing is usually made from plywood, oriented strand board (OSB), or wood plank. Along with the roof's structural framework, it is designed to support the load of the roof, snow load, and any other loads required by local code.
Eave: The edges of a roof that overhang the wall. They help to distribute rainwater away from the main structure of your home.
Fascia: Roof fascia are long boards, usually made of wood, metal, or vinyl, that are attached to the roof eaves to cover exposed rafters or trusses. As well as providing a finished look, fascia are used as stable supporting surfaces for gutters.
Rake: The inclined edges of a gable-style roof — essentially the A-frame visible from outside. A gable-style roof has two sloping sides that meet at the top of the "triangle," and the rakes can either overhang or be flush with the wall.

What Are the Components of a Residential Roofing System?

A roofing system consists of various components that help protect your home from the elements.

Roof deck protection (aka roof underlayment): Asphalt-saturated felt or a synthetic material that provides a water-shedding secondary layer of protection between the shingles and roof deck to prevent wind-driven rain from infiltrating.
Shingles: These are typically made of asphalt, fiberglass mat, and ceramic-coated granules. Roofing shingles act as the primary roof covering and are installed in overlapping layers to protect the structure and help ensure proper water shedding.
Starter strip shingles: The first course of roofing installed at the eave or rake edges of a shingle roof to improve wind resistance.
Hip and ridge cap shingles: Shingles designed for installation over the ridge and hip areas of the roof where two roof planes meet.
Leak barrier: A self-adhered waterproof underlayment typically installed on top of the roof deck at the eave edge of the roof and other vulnerable areas. This helps protect against leaks caused by wind-driven rain and ice dams.
Ventilation: A balanced system of intake and exhaust vents that allows air to continuously flow through the attic space in order to exhaust excess heat and moisture.

What Is the Best Roofing System for You?

The right roof system for your home depends on several variables, including:

The local climate
The amount of roof exposure and location of trees and other vegetation
Your home's floor plan and height
The amount of attic space

Contact a local roofing contractor to help determine the best system for your home.

What Is the Most Common Type of Roofing Material?

Asphalt shingles are the most common type of roofing material used for homes. They are durable, lightweight, and effective in providing protection from the elements. When used with the other components of a complete system, they offer moisture protection and insulation.

Asphalt shingles are also aesthetically versatile, meaning they suit and allow for a wide variety of building styles, decors, and colors.

What Should You Consider When Selecting Materials?

Many factors go into deciding what residential roofing materials to choose for your roof. You'll receive guidance from your contractor on the types of materials that will be best for your home, but here are three important elements to consider.

Cost

In most cases, asphalt shingles are the most economical choice for a residential roof. Use GAF's roof cost calculator get a free estimate. If you are interested in a different aesthetic or live in certain regions, you may want to consider other options such as slate, tile, wood shakes, or metal roofing shingles.

Warranty Terms

The standard manufacturer's roof warranty on asphalt shingles will likely last for anywhere between 20 years to "Lifetime." However, you should always be sure to review the specific terms of the warranty before making a final decision, as the specific coverage will likely vary significantly. You may also consider asking your contractor about the availability of enhanced warranties, which may provide longer or more comprehensive coverage than the standard manufacturer's warranty.

Maintenance and Repairs

Most residential roofing systems are relatively low maintenance; however, you may consider inspecting your roof at least twice a year and after significant weather events to look for damage or necessary repairs.

Whether you're in need of a complete roof replacement or just a few repairs, always consult a local roofing contractor^*when considering a change to your roof.

^*Contractors enrolled in GAF certification programs are not employees or agents of GAF, and GAF does not control or otherwise supervise these independent businesses. Contractors may receive benefits, such as loyalty rewards points and discounts on marketing tools from GAF for participating in the program and offering GAF enhanced warranties, which require the use of a minimum amount of GAF products.

About the Author

Dawn Killough

Dawn Killough is a freelance writer in the construction, finance, and accounting fields. She is the author of an ebook about green building and writes for construction tech and green building websites. She lives in Salem, Oregon with her husband and four cats.

Your roof is a long-term investment that helps protect your family, may improve your home's resale value, and crowns your home's aesthetic so finding a contractor that is qualified is very important. To help you choose a roofing contractor with confidence, here are three qualities to look for.1. Professional Experience and ReputationBefore you hire, do your research. Choose a company based on experience and reputation—not just price. If you decide on price alone, you may not be making the best choice.RecommendationsWord-of-mouth from trusted sources is a great starting place. Ask neighbors, friends, and online community forums for referrals.ResearchVisit the company's website to determine the products and services it offers—as well as the number of years it's been in business. Then, verify the company is licensed and insured.ReviewsNext, read reviews from multiple online platforms to learn about customer experiences. Resources could include Google Reviews, Yelp, Better Business Bureau, and the company's social media pages. While searching, look for info such as ease of interactions, professionalism during installation, cleanup after project completion, and overall satisfaction with the outcome.2. CertificationsFinding a contractor certified by a manufacturer typically indicates that a contractor has met the certification requirements of the manufacturer. For example, contractors certified by GAF must be insured and licensed in states where they operate (if required). GAF also considers factors such as years of roofing experience, credit rating and overall standing with the Better Business Bureau.Higher tiers of certification may be allowed to offer better enhanced warranties on qualifying roofing systems. For example GAF Master Elite® Contractors are entrusted to offer the GAF Golden Pledge Limited Warranty* on qualifying roofing systems, which provides up to 30 years of misapplication coverage.VerificationVerify contractor certifications whenever possible. For example, the GAF website lets you verify whether a company is certified by GAF by simply entering their phone number or contractor ID.AwardsIn addition to certifications, select contractors may also qualify for manufacturer awards. For example, the highest distinction a GAF Master Elite® contractor can earn is the GAF's President's Club Award. This award indicates that a contractor has demonstrated commitment to installing GAF roofing systems backed by GAF's strongest warranties and dedication to learning about GAF's products and services.3. Operational ApproachAfter identifying several contractors, consider these talking points when interviewing the contractors:ExperienceAsk the contractor whether it has experience installing roofs on the type of roof architecture you have.AvailabilityWhen do you need the project to start, and when can the company actually do the installation? If your roofing needs are urgent (leaks, damage, etc.), make sure they can perform the work in the timeframe you are looking for.EstimateAsk the contractor to provide you with an estimate. As a preliminary step, try using GAF's estimate tool. However, keep in mind that the estimate provided by the tool is non-binding and contractors will provide their own estimates. Review actual estimates from contractors closely to understand what is included. The cheapest option is not always the best. Consider experience, and reputation, too.Payment OptionsAsk your contractor about payment options, including payment and financing options to make sure you choose the best option for you.Starting Your SearchPrioritizing these qualities when looking for a contractor may help you find the right company for the job.Are you ready for a new roof? Find a GAF certified roofing contractor** today.*See GAF Golden Pledge Limited Warranty for complete coverage and restrictions.**Contractors enrolled in GAF certification programs are not employees or agents of GAF, and GAF does not control or otherwise supervise these independent businesses. Contractors may receive benefits, such as loyalty rewards points and discounts on marketing tools from GAF for participating in the program and offering GAF enhanced warranties, which require the use of a minimum amount of GAF products. Your dealings with a Contractor, and any services they provide to you, are subject to the GAF Contractor Terms of Use.

A group of local GAF employees in Burgaw, North Carolina, is making a difference for veterans and the community as a whole. In 2024 alone, Veteran Involvement Brings Excellence (VIBE) has undertaken several initiatives to give back to Burgaw as well as all who live and work there.Bill Price, GAF production supervisor II at the Burgaw manufacturing plant, is the champion for the group. He recently sat down to discuss VIBE's latest projects and share insight into its motivations.What Is the VIBE ERG at GAF?VIBE is an employee resource group (ERG) available for all GAF employees. It focuses on the needs of veterans who work at GAF, provides a place for employees to share their experiences, and helps foster opportunities for them to give back to their communities.Each GAF plant has a VIBE group and facility leader that organizes the team. GAF leadership supports each group and its community efforts.The VIBE ERG's mission is to create a supportive environment for veterans and active duty members from all military branches. The group's core values are integrity, duty, honor, and respect. VIBE provides personal support for members and helps them manage the realities of being a veteran, such as applying for benefits.Each VIBE group can work on or be involved in whatever projects they wish. While their primary focus is to support veterans, they also strive to give back to the local communities they live and work in.VIBE Projects in BurgawThe VIBE ERG at the Burgaw plant meets regularly to discuss the activities they want to get involved in. This year, the group has participated in several projects:17 GAF-employed veterans volunteered for the second annual Habitat for Humanity veteran's build, which GAF donated roofing materials for.Team members participated in a food and clothing drive for a local women's shelter.A local veteran service officer visited the plant to help workers learn about—and gain access to—benefits and resources.In honor of Memorial Day, VIBE provided an opportunity for volunteers to place flags at veterans' tombstones at Coastal Carolina State Veterans Cemetery and Wilmington National Cemetery.That's not all the group has planned for. Future initiatives include hosting Toys for Tots at the plant, adopting a highway in honor of veterans, representing GAF at a booth for the Burgaw Blueberry Festival, and continuing to support local veterans in need.How VIBE Impacts GAF and the CommunityThe Burgaw facility, which employs about 247 people, has one of the largest veteran groups within GAF, totaling 28 members. The facility manufactures ventilation products, such as roof vents, foundation vents, turbines, and heating and cooling ductwork."The group has brought the veterans at the plant together to work toward a common goal and also given everyone the comradery they were accustomed to from when they were in the service," Price says. "I think this has had an impact not only on the employees involved but also on the plant as a whole. All of us involved enjoy being part of the team and giving back to those in need."Price notes that each project the group has been a part of has been well received. "We received many thanks from the families that were receiving assistance from the Habitat build and also from the staff at the local women's shelter during the food and clothing drive," he says. "I have no doubt that as we continue to be involved with more events within the community, it will only get better."Giving Back While Looking AheadGAF believes in giving back to its employees and the communities they work in. VIBE is just one of seven GAF ERGs making a difference in team members' lives and those most important to them.Curious to learn more about the opportunities and culture at GAF? Visit our GAF Careers page.

As part of its mission to build resilient communities, GAF Community Matters has supported Puerto Rico hurricane recovery efforts through roofing material donations, roof installation trainings, and team members' hard work. This has had a multifaceted impact on the island and the people who call it home.Hurricane Maria Hit HardHurricane recovery services are needed as urgently today as they were in 2017 when Hurricane Maria struck, leaving behind 15-foot deep floodwaters, about $90 billion in damage, an estimated 2,975 lives lost, and the longest power outage in US history. For 11 months, residents waited for electricity to be fully restored.Short-term disaster relief poured in post-storm. But years after the news cycles ended, Puerto Rico still remains—metaphorically—underwater. Schools and hospitals have fallen into hurricane-related disrepair, and insufficient fixes to the power grid cause frequent blackouts and brownouts.To make matters worse, hurricane-damaged homes that weren't repaired suffer compound damage from years of subsequent storms and exposure.Puerto Ricans Stand StrongThe people of Puerto Rico are strong and proud, determined to rebuild. However, the availability of needed resources poses a considerable challenge.For many, the funds needed to repair an unsafe roof are simply out of reach. Economic opportunities are scarce, and the government is heavily in debt. The US Census Bureau reported that 42% of Puerto Rican people are in poverty.Unfortunately, lower-income Puerto Rican households most vulnerable to Hurricane Maria were also least able to recover from the financial strain of repairing storm damage. With wind speeds up to 155 mph, extensive flash flooding, and wind tunnels ripping through the mountainous terrain, homes throughout this area were no match for the Category 4 hurricane.GAF Helps Build ResilienceTo help those impacted, GAF partnered with Team Rubicon, local nongovernmental organizations, and community members through the GAF Community Matters initiative to assist in Puerto Rico hurricane recovery. Since hurricane Maria recovery efforts began in 2017, GAF has donated materials for over 500 roofs and helped install them, bringing relief and shelter to families all over the island.This work has meant more to this community than just keeping their homes dry. Mr. Alfredo—a homeowner who received a new GAF roof—said, "There is nothing more important in life than to have a place to come home to, spend quality time in, sit, and be at peace."For all of Puerto Rico's strength and perseverance, many families still live in unsafe conditions due to hurricanes. GAF can't stop storms, but it can help build resilience.To that end, in addition to installing roofs, GAF, through the GAF Community Matters initiative and GAF Roofing Academy program, provided free roof installation trainings to local organizations in vulnerable Puerto Rican communities. Educating communities on roof installation creates a greater ability to adapt and bounce back when the next storm hits.Joining the Effort for GoodIn addition to its focus on roofing innovation, GAF remains committed to partnering with local organizations to build resilience in communities across the country. Team members will continue to donate time and materials to support and strengthen communities wherever the need may be.Curious to learn more about this project and other initiatives GAF is involved in? Explore GAF Community Matters.

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