The first step in the installation of any new roofing components is to prepare the roof deck. For the purpose of roofing, the roof deck performs several important purposes including:
- Structural support.
- Dimensional stability.
- Fire resistance.
It is the responsibility of the architect or specifier to ensure that the roof deck meets these requirements for a particular project.
The roof deck must be visually inspected prior to the application of the roofing system. Any deficiencies that are found are to be reported to the project superintendent or general contractor. Do not proceed with any roofing until all deficiencies have been corrected.
In new construction, it is the responsibility of the general contractor to ensure that:
- The roof deck is properly secured to the supporting structure.
- The roof deck surface is dry, smooth and free from depressions, waves or projections before expecting roofing to commence.
- All debris, snow, etc. are cleaned off the roof deck prior to calling upon roofing contractors to accept the surface of the deck.
- All nailing strips, equipment curbs, penetrations, etc. are in place and secured prior to calling upon roofing contractors to commence roofing.
The roofing contractor is responsible to confirm that that the surface of the deck is in suitable condition for the installation of the roofing system.