Beyond the Shingle: A Homeowner’s Guide to the Total Roofing System

When most of us think about our roof, we picture the shingles—those colored, textured tiles that give our home its look. And while the shingles are certainly a critical part of your roofing system, they’re just the beginning. The truth is, a high-quality, long-lasting roof is a complex, multi-layered system designed to protect your home from the inside out. For homeowners in State College, Bellefonte, and other communities across Central Pennsylvania, understanding what goes into a total roofing system can be the difference between a roof that lasts for decades and one that leads to frustrating, costly problems down the road.

At Stoltzfus Bros Roofing, we believe that a great roof is more than just good looks. It’s about ensuring every single component works together in harmony to provide the ultimate protection for your home in Lock Haven, Boalsburg, or anywhere else. We don’t just replace shingles; we install complete roofing systems that are built to withstand the unique weather challenges we face here in Pennsylvania.

So, let's take a look at what lies beneath the surface and why each layer is so important for your residential roofing project.

1. The Roof Deck: The Foundation of Your System

Everything starts with the roof deck, or sheathing. This is the structural foundation of your roof, typically made of plywood or OSB, that is attached directly to your home’s trusses or rafters. A solid, properly installed roof deck is essential for a successful roof replacement. During our inspections and installations in Centre Hall, Pine Grove Mills, and surrounding areas, we carefully examine the deck for any signs of rot, warping, or deterioration. If we find damage, we’ll replace the affected sections to ensure a strong, stable base for all the layers to come.

2. The Underlayment: Your First Line of Defense

Think of the underlayment as a crucial waterproofing membrane. It’s a layer of material, often synthetic or asphalt-saturated felt, that is installed directly on top of the roof deck. The underlayment provides a critical backup layer of protection should water somehow penetrate the shingles above. We use high-quality underlayment that is both tear-resistant and waterproof, offering superior protection for homes in Lemont and Pleasant Gap. This layer is especially vital during heavy rainfall or in the event of a hailstorm when shingles can be compromised.

3. Ice and Water Shields: A Barrier Against the Elements

In climates like ours, where we experience significant snowfall and ice, an ice and water shield is a non-negotiable component of a quality roofing system. This thick, self-adhering membrane is applied to the most vulnerable areas of the roof, such as valleys, around chimneys, and along eaves. It creates a robust barrier against water damage from ice dams—a common problem where melting snow refreezes at the edge of the roof, causing water to back up under the shingles. Without this crucial layer, a homeowner could face a major emergency roof repair in the middle of winter. Our installation crews always ensure proper placement of ice and water shields, providing essential protection for homes in Port Matilda and beyond.

4. The Starter Strips: Securing the Edges

The edges of your roof are particularly susceptible to wind uplift. Starter strips are a specialized layer of adhesive-backed shingles that are applied at the eaves and rakes to provide a strong, clean line and ensure that the first row of shingles is securely fastened. This seemingly small detail is incredibly important for preventing wind damage and is a sign of a professional roofing contractor.

5. The Shingles: The Face of Your Roof

Now we get to the part everyone sees. Asphalt shingles are a popular choice for residential roofing because of their durability, affordability, and wide range of colors and styles. At Stoltzfus Bros Roofing, we use high-quality asphalt shingles that are built to last. Our skilled roofers meticulously install each shingle, ensuring proper alignment, nailing patterns, and overlap to create a waterproof exterior that also enhances your home's curb appeal.

6. The Ridge Vent and Hip & Ridge Caps: Completing the System

A well-ventilated attic is essential for the longevity of your roof and the energy efficiency of your home. A ridge vent, installed along the peak of the roof, works in conjunction with soffit vents to create a continuous airflow, allowing hot, moist air to escape your attic. This prevents heat buildup in the summer and moisture accumulation in the winter, which can lead to mold and rot. The hip and ridge caps, which are specialized shingles that cover the peaks and hips of the roof, are the finishing touch that protects these critical areas while ensuring the vents are properly covered.

From the initial inspection of your roof deck to the final hip and ridge cap installation, every step in our process is designed to create a total roofing system that offers maximum protection and peace of mind. We take pride in our work and are committed to providing the highest level of craftsmanship for every client, whether you’re in Pleasant Gap, Lock Haven, or any of our service areas.



When you choose Stoltzfus Bros Roofing for your roof replacement, you're not just getting a new layer of shingles. You’re getting a complete, integrated system designed for superior performance and lasting durability. For a free roof inspection or to learn more about our comprehensive roofing services, we invite you to [contact us]([insert contact page link here]) today.