ROOFING TERMINOLOGY

Common roofing terms you need to know

When you are looking for a local Roofing Contractor near you, we realize that making an educated decision is always a good idea, especially when it comes time to replace or repair your roof. Listed below are a set of common roofing terms you may come across when discussing or researching roof installation, roof replacement, as well as roof repair. Feel free to read them below and we are always available to answer any questions you may have when it comes to roofing, gutters, skylights or attic insulation. Simply give us a call and we’d be happy to help!

Algae

Roof discoloration, dark streaks and spots are caused by fungus developing on the roof shingles. Click here for more information about algae growing on roof shingles.

Asphalt

A bituminous waterproofing agent applied to roofing materials during manufacturing.

Blistering

Bubbles or bubbling in roofing materials. It is usually moisture related. In shingles, blisters are caused by either moisture under the material or moisture trapped inside of the material.

Closed cut valley

An installation method where one roof plane’s shingles completely cover the other’s. The top layer is cut to match the valley lines.

Course

A row of shingles or roll roofing running the length of the roof.

Cupping

When shingles are improperly installed over an existing roof or are over-exposed, they may “cup”. This can also be due to a manufacturing defect.

Deck

The surface installed over the supporting framing members to which the roofing is applied. Basically the surface on which the roofing is to be installed. This can be plywood, planks, or wood boards.

Dormer

A raised roof extending out of a larger roof plane. Typically a framed window unit projecting through the sloping plane of a roof. Click here to see more information on roof dormers

Drip edge

An L-shaped metal strip positioned along a roof’s edges to allow water to run off the roof without running down the eaves or siding. A lip that keeps the shingles up off of the deck and over the gutters and eaves to prevent water from going behind the siding.

Eaves

Typically the first 3 feet across the roof. The horizontal lower edge of a sloped roof. Click here for more information about eaves.

Rake

The pitched edge of a roof that overhangs the wall of a home. This also refers to the board or molding placed along the sloping side of a gable roof end. Click here for more information about rakes