In Minnesota’s tough climate, a solid, high-quality roof deck beneath your shingles is essential for durability, weather resistance, and long-term home protection. Roof decking – the wooden layer under the shingles – is an unsung hero that often gets overlooked until problems arise. We’ll explain why proper decking matters – from preventing ice dam leaks to smoothing out insurance claims – and how proactive inspections and a knowledgeable contractor can save you trouble.
What is Roof Decking and Why Does It Matter?
Roof decking (also called sheathing) is the layer of wood or engineered material (usually plywood or OSB) that covers the rafters and supports your roofing materials. Think of it as the foundation of your roof – if the decking is weak or damaged, even the best shingles won’t perform well. The 2020 Minnesota Residential Code mandates that asphalt shingles be installed only on “solidly sheathed” roofs
In simple terms, your roof deck must be sturdy and gap-free, using quality panels or boards so nails can hold and the roof can handle the elements
Minnesota Weather Puts Your Roof Decking to the Test
Minnesota’s extreme weather challenges your roof decking in many ways – for example:
- Ice Dams and Water Backup: In winter, ridges of ice can form along the eaves. Snowmelt backs up behind the ice and will find any little crack or gap to seep under shingles. If it reaches a weak spot in the decking, water can leak into your attic and cause damage. A solid deck – plus the required ice-barrier underlayment at the eaves
– helps block this water and prevent leaks. - High Winds and Driving Rain: Severe storms bring strong winds that tug at shingles and push rain sideways. Quality decking holds nails tightly, keeping shingles attached even in high gusts. Minnesota’s code now requires shingles rated for 115 mph winds, but those shingles need a solid deck to anchor them. A sturdy deck also makes it harder for wind-driven rain to find a way in.
Durability and Long-Term Protection
Investing in proper roof decking pays off with a more durable, longer-lasting roof. While you can sometimes install new shingles over an old roof, doing a full tear-off is often the wiser choice – not only to put down fresh underlayment and ice shields, but to fix any hidden deck issues. In fact, starting with a clean, sound deck usually results in a smoother finished roof and a longer roof lifespan. Shingles lie flatter and seal better on a uniform surface, and any rotted or soft wood can be replaced before it causes a leak. If you simply cover up problems with another layer, you risk a shorter life for your new roof because the underlying damage remains.
A high-quality deck also means better performance day-to-day. It can endure years of freeze-thaw cycles and support heavy snow loads without warping. It provides a secure anchor for shingles so they’re less likely to blow off in strong winds. And if a few shingles do get torn away in a storm, a solid deck with underlayment acts as a backup barrier to keep water out until repairs are made. Your roof deck is the last line of defense between the elements and your home’s interior. If that defense is compromised, even a minor storm can lead to leaks. With a robust deck in place, your home stays much better protected in severe weather.
Insurance Claims and Building Codes
Storm damage can also reveal issues with your roof decking. The good news is that Minnesota law ensures you don’t pay for code-required deck repairs out of pocket. If a hail or wind storm means your decking must be brought up to code or replaced, your homeowner’s insurance should cover that cost – even if the decking itself wasn’t directly hit by the storm. This only helps if the need for deck fixes is noted and included in your claim – another reason to hire a contractor familiar with the codes. A knowledgeable roofer will document any required deck work and work with your adjuster so the necessary fixes (like replacing rotten sections or adding new decking) are covered. That way, your roof gets fully repaired to today’s standards.
Be Proactive with Inspections and Repairs
Don’t wait for a leak to discover a problem in your roof deck. Have your roof inspected periodically (especially after heavy winters or storms) to catch issues early. A professional roofer can spot signs of deck trouble (such as sagging or popping nails) before they turn into major water damage. When a roof is torn off, any defects in the deck will be revealed – and those should be repaired before the new roof goes on
Also, choose a contractor who won’t cut corners. A good Minnesota roofer will explain what they find and recommend the right solutions for your decking. For example, if your home has an older plank-style deck with gaps, they might add plywood over it so the new roof has a solid surface (often needed to meet modern standards
A Solid Roof Deck = Peace of Mind
Your roof’s performance in Minnesota’s climate depends a lot on what’s underneath the shingles. Quality roof decking provides the strength, support, and seal your roof needs to endure heavy snow, ice, wind, and rain year after year. By making sure your decking is sound, up to code, and professionally installed, you’re investing in the long-term protection of your home – an upgrade you might never see, but will definitely appreciate when the weather puts your roof to the test.
Turn to the Pros at Shelter Construction
At Shelter, we offer complimentary inspections and consultations. We will perform minor repairs during the examination to small damage that we find. Call us at 612-284-6985 or contact us today on our website!