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 or click here for a print friendly version of the entire page.

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 Designed to protect the roof where water tends to collect, including valleys, vents, chimneys and skylights. Underlayment products are the final line of defense between the home and the elements. Underlayment products help block water from the roof deck and out of the home to help prevent rot, mold, and water damage.

Get the protection your home deserves.

Underlayment is the first line of defense for your roof. It helps to shed water off of the roof deck and away from your home. Fiberglas™ Reinforced Felt Underlayment • Fiberglas™ Reinforced Felt Underlayment adds an extra layer of protection beneath the shingles, helping prevent moisture from reaching the roof deck. • Reinforced with fiberglass to support flat, more uniform shingle application • Unlike standard felt, resists curling or pulling away from fasteners when exposed to moisture or wind • Increased tear strength to resist tears when walked on or in windy conditions, as compared to standard felt Fiberglas™ Reinforced Felt Underlayment is part of the Owens Corning® Total Protection Roofing System™§. ProArmor™ Synthetic Roof Underlayment • Owens Corning® ProArmor™ Synthetic Roof Underlayment with Fusion Back Coating Technology is strong, durable and repels water unlike #15 felt. It’s also light, easy to install and contributes to safe working conditions. • Dual-surface slip resistance: Fusion Back Coating Technology paired with an industrial non-woven surface provides excellent walking conditions during shingle application even on steeply pitched roofs • Repels moisture and helps provide protection against water infiltration • Resists stretching and tearing around fasteners • Available in 42-inch lightweight rolls for easy installation. • 10-Year Limited Warranty* • For use under asphalt shingles only ProArmor™ Synthetic Roof Underlayment is part of the Owens Corning® Total Protection Roofing System™§.

DEFEND

Designed to protect the roof where water tends to collect, including valleys, vents, chimneys and skylights.

SHINGLES

Owens Corning® roofing shingles do more than just protect your home from the elements. They boast a wide selection of color blends and styles that help bring out the true beauty in your home.

HIP & RIDGE SHINGLES

Hip and Ridge shingles add an attractive, finished look to your roof's ridgeline while protecting against the weather

BREATHE

INTAKE VENTILATION When used with the proper exhaust ventilation, intake ventilation products help replace the warm, humid air in your attic with cool, dry air to help protect the interior components of your roof system from heat and moisture damage. They also help keep the attic temperature closer to the outside temperature to help eliminate problems such as ice damming, which can cause premature shingle deterioration.

EXHAUST VENTILATION Exhaust ventilation helps draw air out of the attic, protecting the roofing system from heat and moisture damage. Optimally designed to work together with our VentSure® intake ventilation products, they help create a balanced flow where warm, humid air is continuously replaced by cool, dry air.