Roof Online

Roof Deck, Siding & Sheathing Manufacturers Directory

By Jack Gray, Roof Online Editor • Last updated April 3, 2024

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OSB wall sheathing.
OSB wall sheathing (image courtesy Weyerhaeuser Company)

Roof Decking

The roof deck is the foundational surface on which the roofing materials are installed. It is the flat supporting structure that spans the roof trusses or rafters, and it is the only structural part of a roof assembly. Roof decks can be made from a variety of materials, including plywood, oriented strand board (OSB), concrete, and steel.

Importance:

  • Structural Support: It provides a strong, flat surface that supports the weight of all the roofing materials, as well as snow (and humans).
  • Base for Roofing Materials: It’s the surface to which the roof system components, such as underlayment and shingles, are attached.
  • Affects Roof Performance: The integrity and performance of the roof deck are crucial for the overall performance of the roof. A compromised roof deck can lead to leaks, structural damage, and other roofing failures.

Siding

Siding refers to the material applied to the exterior sides of a building or house, serving as the first line of defense against the elements. It can be made of wood, vinyl, fiber cement, metal, or other materials. While not a part of the roofing structure per se, siding plays a crucial role in protecting the building envelope and is often considered in conjunction with the roofing when designing for exterior protection in general.

Importance:

  • Protection: Siding shields the building from wind, rain, snow, and other environmental factors.
  • Insulation: It can provide an additional layer of insulation, enhancing the energy efficiency of the building.
  • Aesthetics: Siding significantly affects the appearance and curb appeal of a building.
  • Prevents Water Damage: Properly installed siding helps prevent water from penetrating the building envelope, which can cause structural damage and mold growth.

Sheathing

Sheathing refers to the panels (usually made of plywood or OSB) that are fastened to the structural frame of a building, including the walls and the roof. Wall sheathing covers the studs and provides a uniform, solid surface for the installation of siding, windows, and doors. (For the difference between sheathing and decking in roofing, see our roof decking article.)

Importance:

  • Structural Integrity: Enhances the rigidity and stability of the building structure, helping to distribute forces and loads evenly.
  • Base for Exterior Finishes: Serves as a flat, stable base for siding materials and helps in maintaining the alignment and integrity of exterior finishes.
  • Weather Protection: Acts as a critical layer of protection during construction, shielding the interior from the elements until the siding and roofing are fully installed.
  • Air and Moisture Barrier: Contributes to the overall thermal performance and moisture management of the building envelope, preventing drafts and water infiltration. The sheathing is the structural component to which house wrap (or a similar weather barrier) is applied.

Roof decking, siding, and sheathing are integral components of a building’s exterior. The roof decking (or sheathing) provides the necessary structural support and attachment surface for roofing materials, ensuring the roof’s ability to withstand environmental pressures and protect the interior from weather-related damage. Siding and sheathing protects and insulates the building’s walls, contributing to the overall performance of the structure. Together, these elements form the majority of the building envelope.

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If you are a reputable and qualified decking, sheathing, or siding manufacturer and feel that we’ve overlooked your company, feel free to contact us to ask to be added to this list.

Roof Deck, Siding, & Sheathing Manufacturers List