Know Your Roof Anatomy 101

Roofing Basics: The Anatomy of a Roof

I think I need a new roof. Now what? First of all, don’t worry. Owens Corning™ Roofing is here to help. Our entire Roofing Basics section is designed to give you the information you need.

While replacing a roof can be a big, important decision, it also helps protect your biggest investment-your home-and it gives you the chance to start fresh with a new exterior look. Getting the color and shape of shingle you always wanted is a great way to express your individual personality and add real value. Plus, if you have a leak, ignoring it can only get worse and could result in interior damage or even mold or roof deck rot. 

Let’s get started. Click on the spots below to learn more about the anatomy of the roof.

An Owens Corning™ Total Protection Roofing System™§  

You'll notice that a roof is much more than just shingles-it's a complete system of integrated components and layers all working together to protect the home. To see more information on the Owens Corning™ Roofing products that make up the Total Protection Roofing System™§, click here  .

1.Deck.  The structural base for the roof, usually made of wood or plywood.

2.Dormer.  A structure containing a window that projects vertically through the slope in the roof.

3.Eave. The lower border of the roof that overhangs the wall.

4.Exposure. The part of each shingle that is exposed to the weather.

5.Flashing.  Waterproofing construction used at intersections of different planes or at openings in the roof.

6.Gable.  The triangular section of the outer wall at the peak of the roof. Also a type of roof.

7.Hip.  The intersection of two roof planes that meet to form a sloping ridge running from the peak to the eave.

8.Ice and water barrier.   A self-adhesive waterproofing membrane used along eaves and valleys to protect these sensitive areas against ice damage and wind-driven rain.

9.Laminated or three-dimensional shingles.  Shingles containing more than one layer of tabs to add dimension and durability.

10.Metal drip edge.  A narrow strip of noncorrosive metal used at the rake to facilitate water runoff.

11.Off-ridge exhaust vent.   Individual exhaust vents usually located on the upper half of the roof that allow warm, humid air to escape from the attic. May be round, square or resemble a pipe or stack.

12.Rake.  The outer edge of the roof from the eave to the ridge.

13.Ridge.  An intersection of two roof planes forming a horizontal peak.

14.Ridge vent.  An exhaust vent that runs horizontally along the peak of the roof allowing warm, humid air to escape from the attic.

15.Square.  One "square" of roofing material equals 100 square feet of roofing area. Many roofing materials are bought by the square.

16.Three-tab shingles.  Strip shingles containing three exposed tabs that are evenly spaced across the width of each shingle.

17.Undereave vent.  Intake vents located under the eaves of the roof that help draw cool dry air into the attic.

18.Underlayment.  A layer of protective material between the deck and the shingles.

19.Valley The intersection of two sloping roofs joining at an angle to provide water runof

Bautista vs Odor What it was really about...

Bautista told him it was too late for his free roof inspection!? Not true, call Ryson for your inspection today!! https://t.co/6PTEwmv1mK

— Ryson Roofing (@rysonroofing) May 16, 2016

Local Roofers Do It Better

Local Roofing Experts | Roofing Companies Baton Rouge

Truth is, local roofing experts roof better. In the past many people viewed this statement as my own personal opinion. I have always been an advocate for choosing local roofers. People accused me of being biased pointing out the fact that all roofers started somewhere and therefore were entitled to the chance or opportunity to prove themselves as good roofers. In addition good roofers come in all shapes and sizes. meaning that just because a roofer does not fit the common definition of roofer does not make them otherwise. To the contrary my argument has always been the local roofing experts are a better choice for homeowners. here is why;

1. Accessibility: When you choose a local roofer, you are able to locate them easily when its time to service the roof and or hold them accountable for their workmanship warranty. Having the ability to quickly access your roofer could be the difference between a quick repair or a huge roofing problem. 

2. Reputation: When you choose a local roofer you can get a better idea of their reputation. You can speak to real people in your same area who have used this roofer in the past. You are also able to drive by actual local locations near you to view the quality of the work.

3. Familiarity: This has a couple different benefits. For starters when you choose a local roofer, you will find people you know who are familiar with the roofers brand especially if the local roofer is aggressive in his/her marketing. In addition the local roofer will be better informed on local building codes and familiar with the codes and pulling permits. 

4. Longevity: Another benefit of choosing a local roofer is more obvious months if not years after the roof has been installed. Often times if a problem arises with your roof it is months later after the installation. If a hail storm hits a certain area and roofers flood the area from out of town, when issues arise these roofers are no where around to be held accountable for their work. 

Here in Baton Rouge the best local roofing experts are Ryson Roofing. Ryson Roofing has been roofing in the same area for over 25 years. They are recognized as leaders in the roofing industry and are preferred installers of Owens Corning roofing materials. Choose with confidence when you choose Ryson Roofing.

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Attention Roof Consumer!

Here Is Your Do's and Don'ts List | Baton Rouge Roofing

Lately we have had a lot of people ask us for a guide line to choosing the right contractor. I guess after a period of time, working consistently to build a good reputation, you become a source of good trustworthy information. Ultimately, we want you to protect your family and your home by making sure you have a solid and dependable roof system. Our goal is to inform you with tips based from our own experience, to help you make good choices for yourself when it comes to choosing a roofing contractor or any type of contractor. I have heard and witnessed many people with terrible experiences after choosing the wrong contractor. There are some commonalities when I hear these horror stories. In the end, you work hard for your money and can not afford to throw it away by choosing the wrong contractor. Here are some tips that can help you make a good choice:

1. Don't make any assumptions: Do not assume that you are on the same page with your roofing contractor. Make sure you are on the same page by writing down all details discussed and making sure those specific details are in your contract. Like in carpentry, there is a saying, "measure twice cut once." When choosing a contractor, go over all colors, type of material, and specific requested details numerous times. 

2. Research: Do your research first. When doing your research look at multiple sources. Today there are many places where contractors are reviewed. Look at the Facebook page of the roofing contractor, What are people saying about the specific contractor on Facebook. Do the same for Google + and the Better Business Bureau. Once the contractor passes your online research criteria, call the roofing contractor and meet in person.

3. Appearance: Some people may think that looking at the appearance of the contractor is a little on the judgmental side. I don't agree. You are risking your hard earned dollars when you choose a roofing contractor, so you need to be certain that your probability for a successful job is high. When I look at the appearance of a roofing contractor, I look for signs of success. This is important because not all roofers can afford to replace every roof. When replacing a roof or any contract job for that matter, it requires that the contractor have some skin in the game and make an investment that often times exceeds the deposit received. Can the roofing contractor you choose stomach the expenses while finishing your project as they wait for their final payment.

4. Location: Personally, I think it is very important that the contractor I choose to perform work have a public office. Somewhere outside of their own home where they operate their business from. having a physical location is a good sign. It demonstrates a certain level of success and a commitment to the business. 

5. Low Ball No No: Never choose a bid that is substantially lower than all other estimates. Roofing contractors like all contractors have to account for the unforeseen. The low baller will on most occasions have to end up cutting corners in order to squeeze the job into the budget he has sold. This never works well in the favor of the homeowner. 

Utilize these tips and reduce the chances of a contractor taking advantage of you. Dishonest people come in all shapes, sizes and colors so do your research and choose a reputable company. When choosing a roofing contractor in southeastern Louisiana, choose Ryson Roofing.

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Re-roofing Baton Rouge

Re-Roofing Baton Rouge | Ryson Roofing

Re-roofing Baton Rouge one roof at a time. Yes, if you live in Baton Rouge or the surrounding areas and you watch TV or listen to the radio, then you have heard of Ryson Roofing. We are actively promoting our brand and for good reasons. We know that although roofing material manufacturers boast these long warranties, such as life time warranty or 50 year warranty. The roof will almost always need to be replaced before the manufacturers warranty recommends. WHY? Well because in our region, roofs take a real beating. From the HOT sun, to the pouring rain, the roofs here in Louisiana have to put up against a lot of volatile weather including hurricanes, wind and hail. So although in theory your roof should last 30 years, chances are your roof will see enough storm damage in a 15 year period to require complete re-roofing. 

Its A Numbers Game

Insurance companies are very smart. They know the probability of just about any unforeseen event happening. That is why if you are a female under the age of 25 your auto insurance will be double that of a female 40 years of age. The insurance company knows that the younger female has a higher probability of filing a claim. Likewise, homeowners pay their home owners insurance and the probability of you needing a new roof is already calculated in the premiums and deductible you will pay. So if your roof is damaged, re-roof it!! You are already paying for the cost. In addition, if a storm does come through your area and you see your neighbors getting new roofs and you fail to file a claim, you will be paying for a new roof through an increase in insurance anyway. So it makes sense to file your claim and get a complete re-roof. 

Free Roofing Inspection

Ryson Roofing offers a free roof inspection to help you the homeowner identify if you have any damage that you may be unaware of. The free roof inspection is painless and cost zero dollars. It makes sense to take advantage of the free roof inspection and allow our trained roof inspectors the opportunity to inspect your roof. If damage is found, we will meet with your insurance adjuster to show them the damage we located. Call us today. you will be glad you did. 

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Baton Rouge Roofers Know

Local Shingle Roofing Contractors | Ryson Roofing

When it comes to roofs, there are many kinds. There are many type of roofing materials that are best suited for specific areas of our country. The roofing material that performs best in the majority of the United States is asphalt shingle roofing. Asphalt shingles are some of the best materials for a roof because of their durability and ability to perform in a wide range of climates. In Baton Rouge your number one choice in local shingle roofing contractors is Ryson Roofing experts in asphalt shingles. 

The Do It All Service 

Most of us have heard the old "figure of speech", "jack of all trades, master of none". And to most of us it makes sense that someone can certainly know a lot about a lot of things yet not specialize in any one skill. It also makes sense that the person who specializes in that one thing understands it much better than the person who is the Jack of all trades. For this reason Ryson Roofing decided a long time ago to become a specialist at one thing. Ryson Roofing does not do metal roofs, Ryson Roofing does not install flat roofs, Ryson Roofing has become the experts installing, replacing and or repairing asphalt shingle roofs. They are the local shingle roofing contractors of choice in southeastern Louisiana. So, if you have a shingle roof whether commercial or residential, Ryson Roofing has the knowledge, experience and proper resources to service your roofing need in the best manner possible. 

Choose The Experts

For over 25 years Ryson Roofing has been servicing the Greater Baton Rouge area and the surrounding area of southeastern Louisiana. Ryson Roofing is a recognized brand in successful roofing. When you have a roofing need, you call the local shingle roofing contractors, you call Ryson Roofing. 

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Who Pays The Insurance Deductible?

Baton Rouge Roof Replacement | Ryson Roofing

With most insurance claims, its pretty clear who is responsible to pay the insurance company's deductible. If you are in a car accident you know you will pay the insurance deductible and the insurance company will pay anything needed to recover your vehicle above and beyond your deductible. Deductibles are in place to prevent filing claims that are small loss. For example you would not file an insurance claim if you had a cracked windshield and a $500 deductible. This deductible in this case is in place to hold the policy holder responsible for losses up to the dollar value of the deductible. In addition deductibles keep people from filing fraudulent claims. Your deductible also is a well calculated number that more than likely saves you on premium dollars. Your deductible basically states that up to a certain dollar amount you are financially capable of accepting a loss and beyond that dollar amount your insurance company will accept the loss. 

Roof Insurance Claims | Hail Storm Roof Replacement

Often times people look for a way out of paying their deductible when it applies to a roofing claim. This practice is unfair to your insurance company. Your deductible played a role in determining what your premium would cost. So if you find a roofer to install a roof less than what the insurance company is willing to pay, then guess what, you still pay the exact same deductible and the insurance company pays less for the claim. Otherwise, you have to pretend or lie when you submit the final invoice to the insurance company for the full amount. This practice is deceptive and anyone willing to lie is not someone I would trust with my roof. People, pay your deductibles and appreciate a good company that is willing to do the work and wait on the insurance company money. 

Ryson Roofing The Best Choice

Ryson Roofing located in Baton Rouge Louisiana is your best choice for roof replacement and roof repair. Ryson Roofing specializes in insurance claims and over the years Ryson has developed a seamless process that can make the entire roof claim experience much more pleasant. We are here to help you get a new roof. Call us today!

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