Regardless as to whether you’ve owned your home for many years, or you’ve recently purchased your first property, there are several roofing terms for SWFL homeowners that you’ll want to familiarize yourself with. The most common roofing terms that SWFL residents should know are as follows:”
Shingles:
Shingles are individual overlapping roofing materials, typically made of asphalt, tile, metal, or other materials. All types of shingles, including tile shingles, are designed to shed water from the roofing system.
Flashing:
Flashing refers to thin metal or other waterproof materials used to prevent water penetration at roof joints, vents, and other vulnerable areas where the roof meets a vertical surface. Flashing is typically made of durable materials such as galvanized (rust-resistant) steel and aluminum.
Underlayment:
Underlayment is a water-resistant or waterproof material installed directly onto the roof deck before the final roofing materials are applied. It provides an additional layer of protection against water infiltration.
Eaves:
The eaves are the lower edges of a roof that overhang beyond the exterior walls of a building. They provide protection to the walls and foundation from water runoff.
Fascia:
Fascia is a horizontal board or panel that is installed along the edge of the roof, connecting the outer ends of the roof rafters or trusses. This part of your roofing system provides support for the lower edge of the roof. It also helps give a finished look to the eaves.
Valley:
A valley is the intersection where two sloping roof surfaces meet, creating a V-shaped or channel. Special flashing and materials are used in valleys to ensure proper water drainage.
Pitch:
The pitch of a roof refers to its steepness or slope. It is typically expressed as the ratio of the vertical rise to the horizontal run. Roofs with a high pitch shed water more effectively than roofs with a low pitch. For example, a church steeple has much higher pitch than a flat roofing system.
Decking:
Roof decking, also known as sheathing, is the structural base layer of the roof. Roof decking is typically made of plywood (or other similar materials) and it provides a solid foundation for the roofing materials.
Drip Edge:
A drip edge is a metal flashing that’s installed along the edges of the roof, The purpose of a drip edge is to direct water away from the fascia and into the gutters. It helps prevent water from seeping into the underlying structure.
Do you need help with roof repair or replacement and you have questions about some of the roofing terminology that your contractor used? We can help. Call our office today to speak with a local expert.
