May 30, 2025
The Importance Of A Solid Roof Roof Deck On Your Shingle Roof
A Good Roof Starts With A Solid Roof Deck
When it comes to the integrity of a roofing system, there is more to it than meets the eye! Everything in the building and structural world starts with the foundation. When the foundation is set correctly everything else can be constructed properly. If the foundation is off it affects the rest of the project very much like an airplane that starts 1" off course at the beginning of the flight but ends up miles off from its destination. Its no different on an asphalt roofing system.
Even though you don't see the roof deck it's a critical component. It's crucial that your roofing contractor carefully inspects your roof deck to look for any potential rot, water damage, mold or brittle areas.
Improperly ventilated homes can contain alot of moisture which can create an atmosphere for attic mold, which is extremely hazardous for your health. If the underside of your decking is full of attic mold all or some of the plywood needs to be replaced.
Failed shingles, high or low nail placement, broken vents or pipe boots among other issues can cause roof leaks and water intrusion. Consistent water intrusion creates rot. The fasteners for the new shingle system will not hold in soft or rotten plywood. This can create premature failure and shingle blow off in moderate or high winds.
Car decking roof decks can also present a problem. While they technically meet manufacturer codes the older wood is often extremely dry and brittle and does not hold fasteners.
At Bates Roofing we utilize the best practice approach in every aspect of our business. All plywood is inspected and compromised plywood is removed and replaced to create a smooth solid substrate.
A smooth substrate is also important as large variations in the plywood placement will telegraph through the asphalt shingles over time and give a new roof an ugly appearance.
We are a safe choice for your roof replacement because we don't cut corners! We meet the highest level of Washington State codes, NRCA requirements and manufacturer expectations for upgraded system warranties.
Below are some "found in the field" examples of replacing bad plywood during a reroof job.
Thank you for choosing Bates Roofing as your local roofing contractor.











