Soft Decking
Soft Decking | Roof Inspections | Roofing | Pelham
Whether you own a historic Pelham cottage with charming soft decking or a sleek new build topped with the latest composite shingles, small problems can lurk beneath the surface. HEP’s certified team knows how to uncover them. Our comprehensive roof inspections combine thermal imaging, moisture mapping, and hands-on expertise, revealing early signs of decking rot, nail pops, and hidden leaks before they threaten your insulation, drywall, or family heirlooms.
Because we’re local, we understand how Pelham’s sudden snow squalls, lake-effect winds, and humid summers stress every square foot of your roofing system. After each inspection you’ll receive a photo-rich digital report, clear repair recommendations, and an upfront estimate—no jargon, no pressure. Schedule today and enjoy the peace of mind that comes from having HEP on your roof and in your corner.
FAQs
What exactly is “soft decking” in a roofing system?
Soft decking refers to sections of the roof’s structural sheathing—usually plywood or OSB—that have lost stiffness and load-bearing strength because of prolonged moisture exposure, rot, or insect damage. When the decking becomes spongy, nails no longer hold properly, shingles can lift, and the entire roof assembly is at higher risk of leaks or collapse.
Why are soft-decking inspections especially important for homes in Pelham?
Pelham experiences a mix of humid summers, heavy spring thunderstorms, and occasional winter freeze–thaw cycles. These conditions allow moisture to penetrate old shingles or flashing and become trapped against the wood deck. Regular inspections catch early soft-decking issues before our local climate accelerates rot, mold growth, and structural damage.
What warning signs suggest my roof might have soft decking problems?
Inside your home, look for ceiling stains, musty odors, or sagging drywall. Outdoors, watch for wavy or dipping rooflines, shingles that crease under foot traffic, unexplained nail pops, or gutters filled with wood shavings. Any area that feels springy when walked on should be evaluated immediately by a professional.
How does a professional inspector detect soft or weakened decking without tearing off the roof?
Certified inspectors in Pelham use a combination of infrared thermal imaging to spot moisture pockets, calibrated moisture meters to measure wood saturation, attic examinations for underside rot, and gentle walk-over assessments to feel for spongy spots. If necessary, they’ll perform small test cuts or core samples to confirm the extent of decay before recommending repairs.
Is it possible to repair just the damaged sections, or will I need a full deck replacement?
If soft decking is confined to a small, well-defined area—often near chimneys, valleys, or skylights—it can usually be cut out and replaced with new, code-approved sheathing. However, widespread softness, mold, or structural sagging typically calls for full deck replacement to restore integrity and meet building-code nailing requirements for new shingles.
How frequently should Pelham homeowners schedule roof inspections for soft decking issues?
We recommend a professional roof inspection at least once every two years, and immediately after severe weather events such as hailstorms or high-wind thunderstorms common in Pelham. Homes with roofs older than 15 years, or those that have experienced leaks in the past, should be inspected annually to catch soft-decking deterioration early and avoid costly structural repairs.