What Is Roof Sheathing? Know Its Types and Materials

Roof sheathing provides a stable and durable foundation for your roofing system. It refers to the layer of material used and installed on top of the roof frame and under the roof cover.

As an essential part of the roof structure, it’s important to understand the materials and types of roof sheathing for your home. This article will discuss everything you need to know about this topic.

What is Roof Sheathing?

Roof sheathing is placed on the roof framing and below the roof covering. It’s also known as roof decking or substrate and is a sturdy base for the roof’s overall structure.

Proper installation of roof sheathing, a critical step often undertaken by a professional roofing contractor, depends on the type of sheathing and the rest of the roofing system. For instance, the approach differs for asphalt shingle roofs compared to those with shingles and shakes.

A specific pattern and orientation are required for installation. Also, you must ensure adequate ventilation to prevent moisture buildup and extend the lifespan of the roof covering.

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Materials Used for Roof Sheathing

Deciding the suitable material depends on the type of your roof sheathing. The following are some of the most common materials:

● Wood

The most common roof sheathing materials are plywood and Oriented Strand boards (OSB), chosen for their strength and compatibility with various residential roof types.

Whether for new construction or replacing a damaged roof, these materials provide a sturdy base for the rest of the roofing elements. Constructed from resilient and robust wood such as oak, maple, pine, spruce, birch, etc.

● Fiberboard

Fiberboard is a compressed wood product frequently employed in low-slope roofing due to its lightweight, easy installation, and outstanding insulation properties.

● Metal

Metal sheathing is a robust and enduring choice for roof sheathing, usually produced from steel or aluminum and placed in sizeable panels. This type is popular for industrial and commercial roofing purposes.

● Asphalt

Asphalt is a common material for roof sheathing in the form of asphalt-impregnated felt paper. This material is well-known for its remarkable moisture resistance, making it an excellent choice for roofs exposed to harsh weather conditions.

Types of Roof Sheathing

There are 5 common types of best roof sheathing, each with its unique features and benefits, including:

● Plywood Sheathing

Due to its durability, strength, and ability to resist moisture, plywood is commonly used for roof sheathing. It is manufactured by adhering thin layers of wood veneer together, with each layer’s grain oriented perpendicularly to the adjacent ones.

The plywood thickness utilized for roof sheathing will depend on the roof rafter spacing, which comes in various thicknesses.

● Oriented Strand Board (OSB) Sheathing

OSB, an engineered wood product, is made by bonding wood strands with adhesive. It’s a popular choice for roof sheathing due to its durability and cost-effectiveness, especially in residential roofing systems where plywood or OSB is required.

Unlike plywood, it is made with larger wood strands rather than veneers. OSB is a popular option for roof sheathing because of its durability, strength, and affordability.

● Fiberboard Sheathing

Fiberboard is a compressed wood product produced by bonding wood fibers using adhesive. It is typically used for low-slope roofs and must be installed in a particular orientation to provide adequate drainage.

● Metal Sheathing

The metal sheathing is a sturdy and long-lasting choice for roof sheathing, frequently made from aluminum or steel and installed in large panels. It is often utilized for industrial and commercial roofing applications.

● Asphalt Sheathing

Asphalt-impregnated felt paper is a common material for roof sheathing due to its affordability and ease of installation. It comes in different thicknesses, and the thicker the paper, the more moisture protection it offers. This cost-effective solution is commonly used in both residential and commercial roofing projects.

● Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs)

SIPs are pre-manufactured panels consisting of foam insulation sandwiched between two layers of OSB or plywood. These panels provide exceptional thermal insulation and can be a budget-friendly option for various building applications, including roofing.

When selecting roof sheathing materials, it’s important to consult with a roofing contractor to understand the best options for your specific roof. The choice between plywood or OSB, for example, can depend on factors like climate, roof design, and budget.

Additionally, for roofs using asphalt shingles, the sheathing must provide a solid foundation to ensure longevity and performance.

Knowing what is roof sheathing will help you in deciding which material and type is suitable for your home or commercial application.  Don’t forget to consider various factors, including the roof design, climate conditions, cost, and building codes, to get the best one for you.

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RoofLast is an experienced author and roofing expert. With years of practical experience in the field authored several informative articles on various aspects of roofing, including installation, maintenance, and repair