How To Understand Roof Layers & Terms
Although many trustworthy roofers will explain anything you don’t understand, having a handy reference guide ensures you’re well-informed.
By understanding roof layers and terminology, you can better manage your roof installation, repairs, or replacement without getting duped into paying for something you don’t need. Here is our roundup of common roof layers and terms to help you familiarize yourself with what you’ll likely hear during your residential roofing projects:
Roof Ridge
A roof ridge marks the top-most peak created by the intersection of two roof slopes.
Ridge Vent
A ridge vent sits at the peak of a pitched roof, allowing warm, humid air to escape from your attic. These vents are most commonly used on shingled residential homes.
Flashing
Roof flashing is a slim material, usually galvanized steel, that directs water away from critical areas of your roof. Roofers install it where the roof plane meets a vertical plane, such as walls or dormers, and around roofing protrusions like skylights, vents, and chimneys.
Roof Deck
The roof deck forms the material between the structural components of the roof (trusses and joists) and the waterproofing and insulation membranes (roofing materials, layers, coatings, etc.). In other words, the roof deck supports every other roofing component. It must be strong enough to hold the entire weight of the roof and durable enough to withstand the elements. Common materials for residential roof decks include steel, plywood, tongue and groove systems, and concrete.
Underlayment
Roofing underlayment provides a water-resistant or waterproof barrier against extreme weather. Roofers install it directly onto your roof deck beneath all other roofing materials, and it’s often made of asphalt-saturated felt, rubberized asphalt, or non-bitumen synthetic membrane.
Slope/Pitch
The slope or pitch of a roof is the angle at which it slants. It’s calculated by the number of inches a roof rises vertically for every 12 inches of horizontal run. For example, a roof that rises 8 inches for every 12 inches of horizontal run has a pitch of 8/12.
Square
In roofing terms, one square equals 100 square feet. Roofing shingles and metal roofing products are typically sold per square.
Valley
A roof valley occurs where two roof slopes intersect, channeling water away from the roof. Since valleys often create risks for serious leaks, choosing the right materials and installation methods for your roof is crucial.
Hip
A hipped roof slopes upward from every side of the structure with no vertical ends. The hip refers to the external angle where adjacent roof slopes meet.
Roofing Material
Reputable roofing contractors often partner with leading material suppliers to offer a variety of materials, styles, and colors. As a result, you get a beautiful roof that enhances your home’s curb appeal and value while protecting everything inside. Common residential roofing materials include asphalt shingles, wood shakes, metal, concrete and clay tiles, and slate.
Granules
Roofing granules, often made from crushed minerals and stone, come in various colors, textures, sizes, and shapes thanks to advancements in technology. As a roof ages, or after heavy storms, these granules may come loose and collect in your gutters.
Metal Drip Edge
A metal drip edge is a narrow strip of noncorrosive metal installed at the rake and eave to direct water runoff, helping to protect the underlying section of the wall by managing dripping water.
Insulation
Roofing insulation enhances your home’s energy efficiency by maintaining a consistent temperature.
Ventilation
Roof ventilation improves air circulation through your attic space, removing overheated air and moisture. This process minimizes the impact of temperature and moisture changes both inside and outside your home.
Water Shield
Ice and water shield refers to a self-adhering waterproof underlayment used in roofs to prevent damage caused by wind-driven rain and ice dams. Roofers commonly install water shields on eaves, rakes, valleys, flashings, and chimneys.
Eave, Fascia, Soffits
The eaves form the edges of the roof that hang over the face of a wall, creating an overhang to direct water away from the walls. Soffits, typically made of aluminum or vinyl, cover the underside of the roof’s overhang, while fascia boards run along the ends of your structure, where components like gutters attach.
Penetrations
Many roofs feature multiple punctured holes known as penetrations, which include pipes, chimneys, exhaust fans, vents, air conditioners, and skylights. Likely, your roof includes one or more of these penetrations.
Roof Gable
The roof gable is the triangular section of the exterior wall located at the peak, between the sloping roof and the eave. It is also sometimes called the rake.
Ultimately, all parts of the roof should be installed and repaired by a professional roofer. From roof installations to repairs and replacements, you can count on West Orange Roofing for exceptional services. Contact us directly with any questions about residential roofing.