Some more WM Newbie Questions

[jazaddict]

I don't think I would ever need to do anything to the ROM if I just want to add apps and files.

Yes, thats correct.

If the ROM does get corrupted (turned into a brick)

Corrupted ROM is not the same as "bricking your phone".
Corrupted ROM (which is pretty rare) will allow you to either Hard Reset or flash another ROM.
Bricking your phone means won't turn on, won't reset, won't do anything more than an actual "brick" would do...hold down papers, break windows, etc...

The point is that if you get a WM phone,and you like the interface you'd never "need" a different ROM. You could install and uninstall apps to your heart's content.
If, at sometime in the future, you see a ROM "today screen" or some sequence of screens or buttons that you like, you could ALWAYS try that ROM. If its the Cat's Pajamas then you're set. If not, you can return to the "stock" ROM...or try a different one.
VEry flexible.

The only way I've heard of bricking your phone is to unplug it in the middle of a flash...so don't do that.