What is the primary purpose of a roof deck?

The primary purpose of a roof deck is to serve as a substrate and support loads. Roof decks are crucial structural components that provide a stable foundation for various roofing materials. They must be capable of bearing loads from roofing materials, environmental factors such as snow and wind, and, in some cases, additional equipment or maintenance personnel.

A well-constructed roof deck ensures that the entire roofing system remains intact and functional over time, preventing issues such as sagging, leaking, or structural failure. While aesthetic value, reduced weight, and enhanced thermal insulation are important considerations in the overall roofing system design, they are secondary to the fundamental role of the roof deck in providing structural integrity and support.