Glossary of Roofing Terms

A

Asphalt Shingles
One of the most common roofing materials used in residential roofing. Asphalt shingles are durable, cost-effective, and come in a variety of styles and colors.

Attic Ventilation
The process of allowing airflow through your attic space to reduce heat and moisture buildup. Proper ventilation helps extend the life of your roof and improve energy efficiency.

B

Battens
Strips of wood or metal used to fasten and support roofing materials, particularly in tile and metal roofing systems.

Blisters
Bubbles or raised areas on the surface of a shingle caused by moisture or heat. These can lead to shingle damage if not addressed.

Built-Up Roof (BUR)
A type of flat roofing system made up of multiple layers of asphalt and felt or fiberglass, commonly used on commercial buildings.

C

Caulking
A sealant used to close gaps or joints in roofing materials to prevent water infiltration.

Chimney Flashing
Metal flashing installed around a chimney to prevent water from entering the roof at the point where the chimney meets the roof surface.

Cricket
A small, peaked structure built onto the roof to divert water around a chimney or other roof projections, preventing water from pooling and causing leaks.

D

Decking
The base layer of the roof, typically made from plywood or OSB (Oriented Strand Board), to which the roofing materials are attached.

Dormer
A structure that protrudes from the roof, often containing a window, to provide additional space and light in an attic or upper room.

Drip Edge
A metal flashing installed at the edges of the roof to direct water away from the fascia and into the gutters.

E

Eaves
The lower edge of a roof that overhangs beyond the walls of a building. Eaves provide protection from rain and shade from the sun.

EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer)
A synthetic rubber material commonly used for flat roofing systems due to its durability and weather resistance.

F

Fascia
The horizontal board that runs along the edge of the roof  typically supporting the gutters. It is important for both aesthetics and structural integrity.

Flashing
Thin sheets of metal installed to prevent water from penetrating the roof at vulnerable areas such as chimneys, skylights, valleys, and vents.

Flat Roof
A roof with a low slope or no slope at all. Flat roofs require special materials and construction methods to ensure proper drainage and durability.

G

Gable
The triangular portion of a building’s end wall that sits between the edges of a sloping roof.

Granules
Small, crushed stones or minerals applied to the surface of asphalt shingles to protect them from UV rays and improve durability.

Gutters
Channels attached along the edge of the roof to collect and direct rainwater away from the foundation of the house.

H

Hip Roof
A type of roof where all sides slope downwards toward the walls. This design is commonly found in both residential and commercial buildings.

Hail Damage
Damage caused by hailstones striking the roof, often resulting in dents, cracks, or broken shingles. Prompt repair is crucial to avoid further damage.

I

Ice Dam
A buildup of ice along the eaves of a roof that prevents proper drainage, potentially leading to leaks and water damage inside the home.

Inspection
A thorough examination of the roof to identify damage, wear, and potential problems. Inspections are essential for maintaining the health and longevity of your roof.

L

Lifetime Warranty
A warranty that covers certain roofing materials for the lifetime of the product, ensuring long-term protection and peace of mind.

Laminated Shingles
Also known as architectural or dimensional shingles, these are thicker and more durable than standard asphalt shingles, offering a more aesthetically pleasing appearance.

M

Membrane Roofing
A type of roofing material commonly used on flat roofs, consisting of rubber or thermoplastic materials that create a watertight barrier.

Moss Growth
An issue in humid climates where moss grows on the surface of the roof, potentially causing damage to shingles over time.

N

Nail-Pop
When a roofing nail pushes up from the roof deck, causing shingles to lift and potentially allowing water to seep under the shingles.

Non-Vented Soffit
A soffit without ventilation, which may be used in situations where attic ventilation is not required or desirable.

P

Pitch
The steepness or angle of a roof, typically measured as a ratio of vertical rise to horizontal run. Roof pitch affects water runoff and the type of roofing materials that can be used.

Plywood Decking
A common type of roof decking made from sheets of plywood, providing a stable base for roofing materials.

R

Rafters
The sloped beams that form the framework of the roof and support the weight of the roof materials.

Ridge Vent
A ventilation system installed along the peak of a sloped roof, allowing warm air to escape from the attic and improving airflow.

Roof Coatings
A protective layer applied to a roof to extend its life, enhance energy efficiency, and provide waterproofing.

S

Soffit
The underside of the roof overhang, often ventilated to allow airflow into the attic. Soffits help regulate attic temperature and prevent moisture buildup.

Shingles
Flat, rectangular roofing materials, often made of asphalt, wood, or tile, that overlap to create a watertight barrier on sloped roofs.

Skylight
A window installed in the roof to bring natural light into the home. Skylights are often sealed with flashing to prevent leaks.

T

Tear-Off
The process of removing old roofing materials before installing a new roof. A complete tear-off is necessary when the existing roof is damaged or past its useful life.

Tile Roofing
Roofing made from clay, concrete, or slate tiles, known for its durability and ability to withstand extreme weather conditions.

V

Valley
The low point where two roof planes meet, directing water runoff toward the gutters. Proper flashing is critical in valleys to prevent leaks.

Ventilation
The process of circulating air through the attic to reduce heat and moisture buildup. Proper ventilation helps extend the life of the roof and improves energy efficiency.

W

Wind Damage
Damage caused by high winds that can lift, curl, or tear off shingles, leaving the roof vulnerable to leaks.

Warranty
A guarantee provided by the manufacturer or contractor to cover defects in materials or workmanship over a specified period.

Z

Zinc Strips
Metal strips are installed on the roof to prevent the growth of moss and algae. When rainwater washes over the zinc, it creates an environment that inhibits plant growth.