My roof quote says decking is extra. Is that normal?
Yes. Roof decking is the wood under the shingles, and it cannot be fully inspected until the old roof is removed. Many roofing contractors list a price per sheet for any decking that needs to be replaced, so you know the cost ahead of time.
What roof decking is
Roof decking is the layer of plywood or OSB that the underlayment and shingles are attached to. It gives the roof its strength and holds the nails that keep the shingles in place.
When decking gets wet over time from a slow leak, it can soften, rot or come apart, and it will need to be replaced.
Why it cannot be priced in advance
Water damage to decking is usually hidden under the shingles. A roof can look fine from above and still have damaged decking around a chimney, a valley or a pipe.
The age of the roof does not always tell you either. A newer roof with a leak can have worse decking than an older roof that never leaked.
What to look for in a quote
A clear quote lists the price per sheet of decking and explains how you will be told how many sheets were replaced.
On an insurance claim, replaced decking can often be added to the claim when it is documented with photos.
Related questions
How much decking usually needs to be replaced?
On many roofs, none or only a few sheets. Damage is most common around chimneys, pipes and valleys.
Will insurance pay for decking?
On a covered claim, damaged decking can often be included when it is documented with photos during the replacement.
Can decking be checked before the roof is removed?
Only partly. Signs of damage can sometimes be seen from the attic, but the full condition is not known until the old roof comes off.
