#AskCentiMark: Let’s get to the base of roof decks with Anne Serzz.

Hi, it’s Anne Serzz again! I’m your go-to source on all things roofing. Today we’re going to explore the primary foundation for your roof, your deck! As you know, choosing a roof that is optimized for your building’s operations and local climate is essential for seamless operations and prolonging its service life. Therefore, learning more about the various materials that make up your roof’s assembly is crucial.

Your roof deck is the foundation of your entire commercial roof system and understanding it is a necessity to make better roofing decisions. The deck, which is also your interior ceiling in many cases, needs to be robust enough to carry the weight of roofing materials and rooftop equipment. Investing in a proper roof deck can determine the service life of your roof, help prevent leaks and impact the performance of other layers. 

Now that you know how a roof deck functions, let’s move on to the different types you can look into: 

Gypsum/Tectum:

This type of roof deck is non-combustible, meaning it is an excellent choice for fire resistance and safety. They’re lightweight materials that provide sound insulation.

Concrete:

These are known for their incredible strength and durability making them a great option for supporting your heavy rooftop equipment. They also offer resistance to fire and deterioration, making them a long-lasting investment.

Metal/Steel:

Metal or steel decks are extremely versatile because of their strength, they can be used for different types of facilities and industries. They provide excellent durability and are also fire resistant.

Plywood:

A good option for states prone to earthquakes as it is flexible for seismic activity.

Being aware of the role of a roof deck and the different types of materials is vital for ensuring that it meets your operational and climate needs. Since your roof deck can play an integral part in your building performance, choosing the proper deck for your commercial building can set your roof system up for a good future. Making repairs, looking into a Preventative Maintenance Plan and conducting routine inspections can keep your deck in great shape. Furthermore, you may be able to reuse your well-maintained deck in your next roofing project, saving you a lot of money.

Whether you need quick roof repairs or a full replacement, we are here for you. Contact us for an inspection today. 

Want to learn more about the roof system as a whole?  Click here.