What Are Boards Under Roof Called? Uncovering Roof Sheathing Essentials in West Palm Beach, Florida
In the vibrant, sun-soaked city of West Palm Beach, Florida, understanding your home’s roofing structure isn’t just a matter of curiosity—it’s essential for making smart, storm-resistant decisions. If you’ve ever asked, “What are the boards under roof called?”, you’re tapping into one of the most important structural elements of any building: roof sheathing.
These boards play a crucial role in everything from weatherproofing to load distribution, particularly in coastal cities like West Palm Beach where high humidity, hurricanes, and heavy rainfall are part of life. With David Spade of Star Roofing, we’ll break down what these boards are, what they’re made of, how they’re used in South Florida roofing systems, and why understanding them could save you thousands in future repairs.
The Short Answer: Roof Sheathing
The boards under your roof are most commonly referred to as roof sheathing or roof decking. Typically made of plywood or oriented strand board (OSB), sheathing is the solid base onto which roofing materials like shingles, tiles, or metal panels are fastened.
In residential construction, especially in areas like Palm Beach County, sheathing forms the structural layer between your roof framing (like rafters or trusses) and the exterior roofing materials. It’s the silent backbone that holds everything together.
Common Types of Roof Sheathing Used in West Palm Beach
Because West Palm Beach sits in a hurricane-prone region, the materials chosen for roof sheathing are held to high standards. Here’s a breakdown of the most common types:
1. Plywood Roof Sheathing
Plywood is the traditional go-to for roof decking in coastal areas. Made by gluing layers of wood veneer, it’s strong, flexible, and can withstand significant wind uplift—a critical factor in Florida’s High-Velocity Hurricane Zone (HVHZ).
2. Oriented Strand Board (OSB)
OSB is more cost-effective and widely used in newer construction. While slightly less durable in wet conditions, OSB meets Florida Building Code (FBC) standards and is often used with moisture-resistant treatments to extend lifespan.
3. Tongue-and-Groove Boards
Older homes in West Palm Beach, particularly historic properties near El Cid or Flamingo Park, might still use tongue-and-groove sheathing, a precursor to plywood and OSB. These solid wood boards interlock for a tight fit and are prized for their aesthetic and strength.
Why Roof Sheathing Matters in West Palm Beach
Living just minutes from the Atlantic Ocean has perks, but it also brings a host of environmental challenges. Roof sheathing provides:
- Structural support for roofing materials
- A flat, uniform surface for underlayment and shingles
- A barrier against wind uplift
- Extra protection against water intrusion
Failing to maintain or replace damaged sheathing is one of the leading causes of roof failure during storms—something West Palm Beach homeowners cannot afford to ignore.
Code Compliance & Roofing Permits in West Palm Beach
Under the Florida Building Code (FBC), roof decking must be inspected and often replaced during a re-roofing project. In West Palm Beach, where hurricanes are an annual concern, compliance with Miami-Dade NOA (Notice of Acceptance) and HVHZ guidelines is especially important.
When hiring a roofing contractor in West Palm Beach, ensure they pull the correct permits and follow code-compliant practices for nailing patterns, decking thickness, and underlayment. This not only protects your home but also ensures insurance eligibility.
Local suppliers like ABC Supply Co. and contractors such as Star Roofing are familiar with these terms and can guide homeowners through compliant installations.
Signs You Might Need New Roof Sheathing
Given the subtropical climate in West Palm Beach, roof sheathing can deteriorate faster than in other areas. Look out for these red flags:
- Sagging or uneven rooflines
- Leaks or water stains inside your attic
- Visible mold or mildew
- Evidence of termite damage
- Roofs over 20 years old
A licensed roof inspector can help evaluate the condition of your decking and recommend repairs or replacement.
Local Insight: How Climate Impacts Sheathing in West Palm Beach
Between tropical storms, high humidity, and UV exposure, West Palm Beach roofs face an intense combination of factors that wear down even the best sheathing materials. This makes regular inspections, proper ventilation, and moisture barriers essential.
Pro tip: Look into cool roof coatings and ridge vents to reduce attic heat and extend the lifespan of your decking.
Choosing the Right Roofing Contractor in West Palm Beach
Roof sheathing replacement is not a DIY task. To ensure long-term performance, it’s vital to work with a licensed and insured roofing company experienced in Florida’s unique codes and weather conditions.
Questions to ask:
- Do you use FBC-compliant decking?
- Can I see your HVHZ certifications?
- What’s your inspection process for existing sheathing?
- Do you offer a warranty?
Local companies like Statewide Roofing & Sheet Metal or Tiger Team Roofing are known for their regional expertise and code-compliant practices.
Conclusion: Your Roof’s Hidden Hero
So, what are boards under roof called? They’re roof sheathing—a not-so-glamorous but absolutely essential layer of protection that helps West Palm Beach homes stand tall against storms, salt air, and sweltering sun.
Understanding the function, materials, and local code requirements of roof sheathing gives you the power to make informed choices about one of your home’s most crucial components. If you’re in the market for a new roof or simply want peace of mind, knowing what lies beneath your shingles is the first step.
Call to Action
👷♂️ Thinking about a re-roof in West Palm Beach? Don’t overlook the decking! Contact a local certified roofing professional today for an inspection—and ensure your home is storm-season ready from the boards up.