At Duane Mainardi Builders Roofing Company, we know that roofing isn’t just about shingles — it’s about what’s underneath too. Especially in townhouse communities around Marlton, NJ, special care is needed when roofing neighboring homes. One hidden challenge? Compromised fire-rated plywood between units.
Today, we’re breaking down why this matters — and how it can impact your home’s safety and durability.
The Problem with Rotten or Compromised Plywood
When replacing a roof on a townhouse, we often uncover hidden problems. It’s not unusual to tear off one roof and discover that the adjoining neighbor’s plywood is rotten or badly compromised.
This creates a serious issue:
You can’t properly connect a brand-new, watertight roof to damaged, weak plywood next door.
If bad plywood is left in place, it threatens the structural integrity of your roof — and risks costly water leaks, damage, and even fire hazards.
Why Fire-Rated Plywood Matters
Between townhouses, fire-rated plywood is required by building codes to help prevent fires from spreading between units.
When the fire-rated material becomes rotted, damaged, or compromised, it loses its ability to slow a fire — putting both homes at greater risk.
At Duane Mainardi Builders Roofing Company, we always check for:
- Integrity of fire-rated plywood between townhouses
- Signs of moisture damage, rot, or weakness
- Correct materials used during original construction
If the plywood has failed, we recommend repairing or replacing it immediately to restore safety and protect both homes.
How You Can Tell if Your Fire-Rated Plywood Is Damaged
While a full roof inspection is best, here are some warning signs homeowners can check:
- Discoloration in the attic: Blackened or stained plywood
- Sagging between rafters
- Soft spots if you gently press the plywood
- Visible water damage around eaves or connecting walls
If you suspect a problem, call a licensed roofing expert like Duane Mainardi Builders Roofing Company to inspect and advise you.
The Best Solution: Coordinate Roof Replacements
When possible, it’s always best to replace the roofs of neighboring townhouse units at the same time.
Why?
- Ensures both sides use fresh, structurally sound plywood
- Simplifies waterproofing between homes
- Boosts property value and curb appeal for everyone
We often work with homeowners’ associations and neighboring owners to schedule coordinated roofing jobs — saving everyone time, money, and stress.
When it comes to townhouse roofing, what’s underneath counts just as much as what’s on top. At Duane Mainardi Builders Roofing Company, we take pride in doing the job right — from plywood to shingle. If you’re in Marlton, NJ, or surrounding areas, contact us today for a free inspection and make sure your home is built to last.
