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When roofing a garage, does it matter which way the new boards go?

Our garage roof had a lot of water damage so we have to replace the old boards. Does it matter which side of the plywood goes up - smooth or rough side? Any re-roofing tips would be appreciated, it's the first time doing it ourself.

Public Comments

  1. The rough side goes up. I hope your using exterior grade plywood. There may even besome marking on the wood to tell you the outside or weather face.
  2. I think, I know they are tiles, shingles or metal slabs topped by overlapping cedar. Anyway it's a scheme of how you want the design to look, layed out or overlapping.
  3. I don't think. most types don't matter. tips though.. Always start at the top with the tar paper and overlap the tar paper so water will run over top of it and never underneath. If your doing shingles wait for a warm day. They are a lot easier to work with that way. There a few types of cuts and transitions that you need to know for ridges and valleys so I would recommend checking out a book from your local library or buying one at Lowe's or something.
  4. I'd suggest using OSB (oriented strand board) instead of plywood. It's stronger, costs less per sheet, and there is no directional grain as in plywood to consider when spanning rafters. OSB has a slick side and a textured side. The textured side can go up to give you additional grip and footing. Use ply-clips around the top edges in-between each rafter to give you needed expansion. If you don't have a pneumatic decking stapler, use 8d box nails to fasten. Apply felt over the decking before you lay the new shingles. Start at the bottom, as you do with the decking, and overlap a few inches each time. Fasten felt with cap nails. Use 1" galvanized roofing nails and follow the instructions on the packaging. Good luck.
  5. The only reason to put the slick side down is to keep from slipping on it during construction, that's all!! You usually want to go slick side down, but it's not a must. I've done many roofs both ways & never had a leak!! The tarpaper & shingles protect it from the weather. Anybody tells you any different, they're an idiot!! Hope this helps, good luck!!