Your Guide to Common Roofing Terms (A Homeowner's Glossary)
Your roof is your home’s main protection against the elements, and understanding its parts and common terms can help you save time, money, and stress. Knowing words like “fascia” or “ice dams” makes it easier to talk with contractors and make informed decisions about your roof.
This glossary simplifies roofing jargon into easy-to-understand terms. You can explore by category or look up specific words. Whether you’re dealing with a roofing issue or staying prepared, this guide will make the process simpler.
The Anatomy of Your Roof – Key Components
Your roof is more than just a layer of shingles; it’s a system designed to protect your home. Knowing the key components helps you understand how your roof works and why it’s important to keep it in good shape.
Decking (or Sheathing)
What it is: The base layer of your roof made from wooden panels like plywood or OSB (Oriented Strand Board). It’s installed over the rafters or trusses and serves as the foundation for all roofing materials.
Why it’s important: Decking provides structural support for your roof. If damaged or rotted, a new roof can’t be properly installed and won’t last as long. During a full “tear-off”, decking is inspected and repaired if needed.
It also helps distribute weight, like snow, and prevents drafts, moisture, and energy loss. Damaged decking can lead to major problems, so maintenance is crucial.
Underlayment
What it is: A water-resistant or waterproof barrier installed directly on the decking beneath the roofing material. It’s typically made of roofing felt (asphalt-saturated) or synthetic fabrics.
Why it’s important: Underlayment provides extra water protection. If shingles are damaged, it keeps the decking dry. Specialized options, like ice and water shields, offer added protection in vulnerable areas such as eaves and valleys, especially in cold climates. The type of underlayment can impact durability and may be required for shingle warranties.
Shingles
What they are: The visible, outer layer of sloped roofs. They overlap to protect the roof from weather and improve curb appeal. Common materials include asphalt (most popular), wood, metal, clay, concrete, and slate.
Why they’re important: Shingles are the first line of defense against the elements and prevent leaks. Different types vary in durability, cost, and appearance. For example, Three-Tab Shingles are a budget-friendly asphalt option with a flat look, while architectural shingles are more durable and textured. These differences affect wind resistance, lifespan, and warranties.
Flashing
What it is: Thin, waterproof material, usually sheet metal like galvanized steel, aluminum, or copper. Flashing is installed at roof intersections (chimneys, vents, skylights, valleys) to prevent leaks.
Why it’s important: Flashing keeps water out of vulnerable roof areas. Damaged or missing flashing can let water into your home, causing expensive damage. Different types, such as step flashing or valley flashing, have specific uses. Flashing is a common source of leaks, so regular inspections are vital.
Drip Edge
What it is: A drip edge is an L-shaped metal strip installed along the roof’s edges, including the eaves (lower edges) and rakes (sloped edges). It directs water into the gutters and prevents it from seeping under roof materials.
Why it’s important: Drip edges protect wooden parts of the roof, like fascia boards and decking, from water damage and rot. They also give the roof a clean, finished look. Without a drip edge, water can cause fascia rot, leaks, and costly structural damage.
Fascia
What it is: The fascia is the horizontal board along the roof’s edge, beneath the eaves. It covers the ends of rafters and supports the gutters.
Why it’s important: Fascia supports gutters and adds a polished look to the roof. When damaged—often by water from clogged gutters or missing drip edges—it can lead to sagging gutters, poor drainage, and water damage to your home’s foundation, siding, or landscaping.
Soffit
What it is: The soffit is the underside of the roof’s eaves, connecting the roof edge (fascia) to the exterior walls.
Why it’s important: Soffits protect the eaves from weather and keep pests out of the attic. Many have vents to bring fresh air into the attic, helping prevent moisture buildup and regulate temperature. Blocked or insufficient soffit vents can lead to condensation, mold, ice dams, and higher energy costs. A good soffit is essential for a healthy attic and roof.
Rafters & Trusses
Rafters: Sloped beams, typically wood or steel, that run from the roof’s peak (ridge) to the eaves or walls. They shape the roof and support the roof decking.
Trusses: Pre-made triangular structures of wood connected by metal plates. They support the roof deck and distribute weight while spanning larger areas more efficiently than rafters.
Why they’re important: Rafters and trusses form the roof’s framework, holding up roofing materials and withstanding snow and wind loads. Damage like rot or cracks can weaken the structure and shorten the roof’s lifespan. Trusses are especially tricky to repair, as damage to one part can affect the entire structure, often requiring professional help.
Gutters (and Downspouts)
Definition: Gutters are channels made of materials like aluminum, vinyl, or steel, installed along roof edges to collect rainwater. Downspouts direct the water away from the home’s walls and foundation.
Why it matters to homeowners: Gutters and downspouts are vital for managing water and preventing issues like roof pooling, siding damage, soil erosion, basement flooding, and foundation damage. Clogged or damaged gutters can cause water overflow, leading to rotting fascia, water backup under shingles, and other structural problems. Properly functioning gutters are key to protecting your home.
Pipe Boot (or Vent Sleeve)
Definition: A pipe boot, or vent sleeve, is flashing designed to seal around pipes that penetrate the roof, such as plumbing or furnace vents. Made from rubber, neoprene, or metal, they fit snugly around pipes and integrate with roofing material.
Why it matters to homeowners: Roof penetrations are vulnerable to leaks. Pipe boots prevent water entry at these spots, but they can crack, degrade, or fail due to UV exposure or improper installation. This often causes leaks, leading to water stains or damage in areas below the pipe.
Some materials, like neoprene, degrade faster than roof shingles, making regular inspection and maintenance essential. Simple fixes, like adding a rubber collar to a cracked boot, can prolong its life.
Dormer
Definition: A dormer is a structure that extends vertically from a sloping roof, usually containing a window. Dormers have their own small roofs, which can be gabled, hipped, shed, or flat.
Why it matters to homeowners: Dormers bring natural light, ventilation, and extra space to upper rooms but also complicate roof construction. The intersections between the dormer and main roof create areas that need precise flashing to prevent leaks. Poor construction or maintenance can lead to water damage. More dormers mean higher potential for issues, making quality installation and regular inspections vital.
Ridge
Definition: The ridge is the highest horizontal line of a pitched roof where two sloping planes meet.
Why it matters to homeowners: The ridge is key for structure and ventilation. Ridge vents along its length let hot, moist air escape, working with soffit vents for proper airflow. Damaged or missing ridge vents or cap shingles can cause leaks, moisture buildup, mold, and shorten shingle lifespan.
Valley
Definition: A roof valley is the angle where two sloping roof planes meet, channeling water downward.
Why it matters to homeowners: Valleys manage heavy water runoff, making them prone to leaks if not properly constructed or flashed. Clogged valleys from debris like leaves can back up water under shingles and damage the roof. Valleys are among the most leak-prone areas and need careful construction, regular cleaning, and maintenance. The type of valley (open, closed-cut, or woven) affects its performance and look.
Eaves
Definition: Eaves are the lower edges of a roof that extend beyond the building’s walls, including the fascia (vertical board for gutters) and soffit (underside of the overhang).
Why it matters to homeowners: Eaves direct water away from walls and foundations. The soffit often has intake vents critical for attic ventilation. In cold climates, eaves are prone to ice dams. Proper construction (overhang length, ventilation) and maintenance (clean gutters, attic insulation) are essential for water management and roof health.
What Kind of Roof Do You Have? – Common Roof Types and Styles
The shape and style of a roof aren’t just about looks—they impact how it performs, what materials work best, maintenance needs, and potential issues. Knowing your roof type helps homeowners understand these factors better.
Pitched Roof
Definition: A pitched roof has one or more sloping sides meeting at a central peak. Its design allows water, snow, and debris to run off efficiently. The slope, or pitch, can range from gentle to steep. Most residential roofs fall into this category.
Why it matters to homeowners: The pitch impacts water drainage, roofing materials, attic space, and energy efficiency. Steeper pitches shed water and snow better but are more costly to build or repair. “Pitched roof” and “sloped roof” are often used interchangeably, both designed for effective water management.
Flat Roof
Definition: A flat roof is nearly horizontal, with a slight slope of no more than 15 degrees. These roofs use materials like modified bitumen, EPDM rubber, PVC, or built-up roofing (BUR) systems.
Why it matters to homeowners: Flat roofs need specific materials and drainage systems. Without proper maintenance, they can develop water pooling from clogs or poor drainage, leading to leaks or structural stress. Flat roofs are never perfectly level—slight slopes direct water to drains or scuppers.
Gable Roof
Definition: A gable roof has two sloping sides meeting at a central ridge, forming a triangular shape. The vertical triangular sections at the ends are called gables.
Why it matters to homeowners: Gable roofs are simple, cost-effective, and allow for good attic ventilation. Their steep slopes shed snow well, making them ideal for snowy areas. However, the flat gable ends can be more vulnerable to wind damage if not properly braced.
Hip Roof
Definition: A hip roof slopes on all four sides, meeting at a central ridge or single peak for square buildings. This design removes the vertical gable ends seen in gable roofs.
Why it matters to homeowners: Hip roofs are more stable and wind-resistant due to their aerodynamic shape, making them popular in hurricane-prone areas. They provide more attic space but are costlier to build. Their durability can sometimes lower insurance premiums in high-wind regions.
Mansard Roof
Definition: A mansard roof has four sides with two slopes each: a steep lower slope with dormer windows and a shallower upper slope, often flat or low-pitched. This style is common in French architecture.
Why it matters to homeowners: Mansard roofs create extra attic living or storage space, effectively adding a story. However, their complexity increases construction, maintenance, and replacement costs. The steep lower slopes also add to total roof area, raising maintenance expenses.
Navigating Roofing Work – Processes and Procedures
When it’s time for roof work, whether it’s a routine check, minor repair, or full replacement, homeowners will come across specific terms related to the process. Understanding these helps make interactions with contractors easier and decision-making less stressful.
Roof Inspection
Definition: A roof inspection is a thorough check of a home’s roofing system by a qualified professional. It identifies damage, potential issues, and recommends repairs, maintenance, or replacement. Tools like infrared scanners or drones may be used for detailed assessments.
Why it matters to homeowners: Regular inspections—annually, after severe weather, or before buying/selling—catch small issues early, extending the roof’s life and preventing costly interior damage. A good inspection provides a detailed report on the roof’s condition and necessary actions.
Roof Maintenance
Definition: Roof maintenance includes regular tasks to keep a roof in good shape, prevent issues, and extend its lifespan. This involves inspections, cleaning gutters and debris, and making minor repairs.
Why it matters to homeowners: Maintenance is cheaper than major repairs or early replacement caused by neglect. Key tasks include clearing gutters, removing debris, addressing moss/algae, inspecting flashing, and trimming overhanging branches. Regular care protects both the roof and the home, saving money and avoiding emergencies.
Tear-Off
Definition: A tear-off is the complete removal of existing roofing materials—shingles, underlayment, and sometimes flashing—down to the roof deck before installing a new roof.
Why it matters to homeowners: A tear-off uncovers hidden damage like rotten wood or structural issues that can be fixed before applying new materials, ensuring a solid foundation and a longer-lasting roof. Many manufacturers require tear-offs for warranty coverage. Though more expensive upfront, tear-offs deliver better long-term performance and durability.
Re-roofing (Roof Replacement)
Definition: Re-roofing, or roof replacement, involves installing a new roof by either removing old materials (tear-off) or adding new shingles over the existing ones (overlay), if allowed by code.
Why it matters to homeowners: Roof replacement is needed when a roof reaches the end of its lifespan, sustains major damage, or when upgrading materials or aesthetics. Steps include inspection, material selection, removal (if needed), roof deck repairs, underlayment installation, new shingles, updating flashing/ventilation, and cleanup. Homeowners should weigh the pros and cons of tear-offs vs. overlays, as they differ in cost, longevity, and warranty terms.
Roof Overlay (or Reroofing Over Existing Shingles)
Definition: A roof overlay, or “layover,” involves adding a new layer of shingles over the existing one without removing it. Most codes allow only one overlay, meaning a roof can have a maximum of two layers. If a roof already has an overlay, the next replacement will require a tear-off.
Why it matters to homeowners: Overlays are faster and cheaper upfront since they reduce labor and disposal costs. However, they shorten the life of new shingles, trap heat and moisture, and hide potential issues like rot or water damage. The added weight can strain the roof structure, and manufacturers may void warranties for overlays. While cheaper initially, overlays often lead to higher costs and complications in the future.
Spotting Trouble – Understanding Common Roofing Problems
Recognizing signs of common roofing problems can help homeowners address issues early, saving money and preventing further damage. Below are some frequent roofing issues and why they matter.
Leaks
Definition: A roof leak happens when water enters the home through the roof. Signs include water stains on ceilings or walls, dampness, or dripping in the attic.
Why it matters to homeowners: Even small leaks can cause big damage if left unrepaired. Water can ruin insulation, damage drywall, rot wood, and lead to mold and mildew, which can pose health risks. Finding the source of a leak can be tricky since water often travels along rafters or decking before dripping. Fixing leaks quickly is essential to prevent further issues.
Ice Dams
Definition: An ice dam is a ridge of ice that forms along the edge of a roof in winter, blocking melting snow from draining off and causing water to pool.
Why it matters to homeowners: Ice dams can let water seep under shingles, damaging the roof, gutters, insulation, walls, and ceilings. They’re caused by heat escaping into the attic and poor ventilation. Simply removing the ice isn’t enough—proper insulation and ventilation are needed to prevent them.
Buckling Shingles
Definition: Buckling shingles are warped or wavy shingles that don’t lay flat on the roof.
Why it matters to homeowners: Buckled shingles are less effective at shedding water and are more prone to wind damage and leaks. They may indicate moisture buildup, poor ventilation, or improper installation. Fixing the root cause is critical, as replacing only the shingles won’t solve the issue.
Curling Shingles
Definition: Curling shingles have edges that turn up or down, making the center appear sunken or the edges lift.
Why it matters to homeowners: Curling shingles are less effective at shedding water and more likely to be blown off, causing leaks. Aging shingles or poor ventilation often cause curling. If widespread curling appears on an older roof, it’s a sign a replacement may be needed.
Alligatoring
Definition: Alligatoring refers to a pattern of cracking in aging asphalt-based roofing, resembling alligator skin.
Why it matters to homeowners: Alligatoring is a clear sign that the asphalt has become brittle and lost its waterproofing ability due to UV exposure and aging. It indicates the roofing material has failed and needs replacement.
Granule Loss (Degranulation)
Definition: Granule loss refers to the shedding of ceramic-coated particles on asphalt shingles, which protect against UV rays, provide color, and add fire resistance.
Why it matters to homeowners: Some granule loss is normal as a roof ages, but excessive loss exposes the asphalt, leading to faster wear, cracks, and leaks. Causes include aging, hail, debris, or manufacturing defects. Signs include granules in gutters or bald spots on shingles, indicating reduced UV protection and faster deterioration.
Ponding Water (on Flat Roofs)
Definition: Ponding water is standing water on a flat roof that remains for over 48 hours after rain.
Why it matters to homeowners: Flat roofs are designed to drain, so ponding water signals a problem. It adds weight, damages materials, promotes moss and algae, attracts pests, and increases leak risks. Causes include poor slope, clogged drains, or sagging areas. Repairs are essential to prevent worsening damage.
Material Matters – A Look at Different Roofing Materials
The material you choose for a roof greatly affects its appearance, durability, lifespan, cost, and maintenance. This section provides an overview of common roofing materials to help homeowners understand their options or what might currently be protecting their home.
Asphalt Shingles
Description: Asphalt shingles are the most common residential roofing material in North America. They are typically made with a base mat of organic felt or fiberglass, saturated with asphalt, and coated with ceramic-coated mineral granules. Asphalt shingles come in two main styles: traditional “three-tab” shingles, which are flat with cutouts along the lower edge for a simple look, and “architectural” or “dimensional” shingles, which are thicker, layered, and offer a more textured, attractive appearance.
Pros: Asphalt shingles are among the most affordable roofing options and come in a wide range of colors and styles to fit different home designs. Installation and repairs are generally straightforward for experienced roofers.
Cons: Asphalt shingles have a shorter lifespan compared to metal, tile, or slate, typically lasting 15–30 years depending on quality and weather conditions. They can be damaged by high winds (especially three-tab shingles), and issues like granule loss, curling, and buckling may arise over time. Higher-quality architectural shingles tend to perform better and last longer, but not all asphalt shingles deliver the same durability or weather resistance.
Metal Roofing
Description: Metal roofing includes panels or shingles made from steel (galvanized or galvalume), aluminum, copper, or zinc. Metal roofs are available as “standing seam” systems with vertical panels or shingle-style products that mimic traditional shingles, shakes, or tiles.
Pros: Metal roofs are extremely durable and long-lasting, often exceeding 50 years. They are fire-resistant, energy-efficient (reflecting solar heat to reduce cooling costs), lightweight, and recyclable. In snowy areas, the smooth surface of metal panels allows snow to slide off easily.
Cons: Metal roofing has a higher upfront cost compared to asphalt shingles. It can be noisy during heavy rain or hail if not properly insulated. Some metals may dent from large hail, depending on thickness and design.
Repairs may require specialized contractors. However, the long lifespan and low maintenance of metal roofs can make them more cost-effective in the long run, especially compared to asphalt shingles, which may need to be replaced multiple times during a metal roof’s service life.
Tile Roofing (Clay or Concrete)
Description: Tile roofing uses individual tiles made of fired clay or molded concrete, offering a distinctive, elegant look often seen in Mediterranean, Spanish, or Southwestern styles.
Pros: Tile roofs are extremely durable, lasting 50 to 100 years or more with proper care. They are fire-resistant, rot-proof, and insect-resistant. Their thermal mass helps improve energy efficiency by moderating attic temperatures.
Cons: Tile roofing is very heavy, requiring a reinforced roof structure, which adds to costs if the home wasn’t designed for tiles. It is also one of the more expensive options due to material costs and specialized labor. Tiles can be brittle and may crack if walked on or struck by large hail or debris.
Repairs are costly and need experienced contractors. For homes originally roofed with lighter materials like asphalt shingles, a structural assessment and potential reinforcements may significantly increase the budget.
Wood Shingles & Shakes
Wood Shingles: These are made by sawing logs on both sides, creating a smooth, uniform surface for a neat, tailored look.
Wood Shakes: Thicker and more rustic than shingles, shakes are hand-split or partially sawn, giving them a textured surface and varying thickness for a natural, rugged look.
Pros: Both offer natural beauty, good insulation, and durability against wind and hail. Shakes are more robust and tend to last longer with proper maintenance.
Cons: Wood roofing is more expensive upfront than asphalt shingles. A key concern is fire risk, as untreated wood has a low fire rating and may be restricted in wildfire-prone areas. Regular maintenance is needed to prevent rot, moss, and insects. Climate and upkeep heavily affect their lifespan.
Shakes take longer to install due to their irregularity, while shingles offer a uniform look. Both require more maintenance and pose a higher fire risk unless treated or replaced with synthetic alternatives.
Slate Roofing
Description: Slate roofing uses natural slate tiles, split into thin, smooth pieces. Known for its beauty and long lifespan, it offers a classic, elegant look.
Pros: Slate roofs can last over 100 years, often outliving the building. They are fireproof, eco-friendly, and durable, reducing landfill waste.
Cons: Slate is one of the most expensive roofing materials, both for the tiles and the skilled labor needed for installation. It is heavy, requiring a strong roof structure, and brittle, making it prone to cracking from hail, branches, or improper foot traffic. Repairs and installation require specialists, adding to costs. While tiles last centuries, parts like flashing and underlayment wear out sooner, and replacing them involves carefully removing and reinstalling tiles, which is complex and costly.
Fire Rating
Definition: A fire rating measures roofing materials’ resistance to ignition and flame spread from external fires like wildfires or nearby blazes. Ratings include Class A (highest resistance), Class B (moderate resistance), and Class C (light resistance).
Why it matters to homeowners: A roof’s fire rating is crucial for safety, especially in wildfire-prone or densely populated areas. Local codes often require a minimum rating, and higher ratings can lower insurance costs. Materials like slate and most metal roofs usually have a Class A rating, while untreated wood shakes and shingles typically have lower ratings unless treated with fire retardants. In high-risk areas, Class A materials provide the best protection, comply with codes, and may save on insurance, despite higher upfront costs.
Talking the Talk – Essential Measurements, Technical & Contract Terms
When discussing roofing projects with contractors or reviewing estimates and warranties, homeowners will come across specific measurements, terms, and contract language. Knowing these terms is key to clear communication and making informed decisions.
Pitch (or Slope)
Definition: The pitch, also called the slope, refers to the steepness or angle of a roof. It’s usually expressed as a ratio showing the vertical rise (in inches) for every 12 inches of horizontal distance (the run). For example, a “4:12 pitch” means the roof rises 4 inches for every 12 inches of horizontal span.
Why it matters to homeowners: Roof pitch is a crucial design factor affecting how well a roof sheds water and snow, the types of materials that can be used (some require a minimum pitch to prevent leaks), attic space usability, the difficulty and cost of repairs, and the home’s overall look. Low-pitch roofs may need specialized materials and installation techniques to stay watertight, while steep roofs can be harder and more expensive to work on due to safety challenges.
Though “pitch” and “slope” are often used interchangeably, they technically differ. Pitch refers to the total vertical rise compared to the total horizontal span, while slope focuses on rise over run (half the span). For most homeowners, understanding pitch as the X-in-12 ratio is enough. This steepness isn’t arbitrary—it impacts material choices, water and snow flow, construction costs, and compliance with building codes.
Square (Roof Square)
Definition: In roofing, a “square” is a standard unit of measurement equal to 100 square feet of roof surface (e.g., 10 feet by 10 feet).
Why it matters to homeowners: Roofing materials, like shingles, are often sold and quoted by the square. Contractors frequently use this term in job estimates, making it important for homeowners to understand. For example, a roof with 2,000 square feet of surface area is called a “20 square” roof. Note that squares are based on the total surface area of the roof, including all its angles and slopes, not just the flat footprint of the home.
Contractors measure each roof plane and may add a “waste factor” to account for trimming during installation, meaning slightly more material is ordered than the exact square footage required.
Ventilation (Attic/Roof Ventilation)
Definition: Attic or roof ventilation is a system designed to ensure continuous airflow through the attic. A balanced system includes intake vents (fresh air enters, typically at soffits or eaves) and exhaust vents (hot, moist air exits, usually at the roof ridge or peak).
Why it matters to homeowners: Proper attic ventilation is essential for roof health, home comfort, and energy efficiency year-round. In summer, it removes excess heat, lowering cooling costs and preventing heat damage to shingles and roof decking.
In winter, it expels moisture from the attic, preventing condensation, mold, mildew, wood rot, and reduced insulation performance. It also plays a key role in preventing ice dams. Poor or unbalanced ventilation can cause premature roof failure, shingle blistering, buckling, and warping.
Ventilation is a *system*—simply having vents isn’t enough. They must be the right type, correctly placed, and balanced (equal intake and exhaust areas for proper airflow). Blocked vents, like soffits covered by insulation or paint, can make an otherwise well-designed system ineffective.
Warranty (Manufacturer's and Workmanship)
Definition:
Manufacturer’s Warranty: This warranty comes from the company that makes the roofing materials (e.g., shingles, underlayment). It covers material defects that cause premature failure. Terms vary—some are prorated, meaning coverage decreases over time, while others offer full coverage for an initial period. Standard warranties usually cover materials only, not labor for removal or installation, unless upgraded to an extended plan.
Workmanship Warranty (Contractor’s Warranty): This is provided by the contractor who installed the roof. It covers issues caused by poor installation. If the roof fails due to workmanship errors, the contractor is responsible for labor and materials. These warranties typically range from 1–10 years or more with reputable contractors.
Why it matters to homeowners: Warranties protect against premature roof problems, so it’s important to understand what they cover, how long they last, and any exclusions. For example, some manufacturer warranties require specific components or proper attic ventilation for full coverage. Installing new shingles over old ones can void many warranties. Standard warranties generally cover material defects only, not installation errors, storm damage, or normal wear and tear, and labor costs are often excluded.
Extended warranties, available at extra cost, often require certified contractors and complete roofing systems but provide broader coverage, including materials and labor. Given these limitations, a workmanship warranty from a skilled contractor is essential, as installation errors are a leading cause of roof issues.
Fasteners
Definition: Fasteners are hardware used to secure roofing materials—such as shingles, underlayment, and decking—to the roof structure. The most common type is specialized roofing nails, though screws or staples may be used for certain applications or materials.
Why it matters to homeowners: The correct type, number, and placement of fasteners are critical for a roof’s performance and durability, especially its resistance to wind uplift. Improperly driven nails—such as those underdriven, overdriven, angled, or placed incorrectly—are a common cause of shingle issues, including loose shingles, blow-offs, and leaks.
Shingle manufacturers provide precise installation guidelines, including nailing patterns and nail types, to ensure proper performance and validate warranties. Failing to follow these specifications can void warranties and increase the risk of roof failure. Proper fastening is a key part of quality roofing and directly impacts durability.
Empowered with Common Roofing Terms: Taking the next steps for your roof.
Roofing can feel overwhelming, but understanding the common terms in this glossary is a great first step. Knowing the difference between decking and underlayment or a “tear-off” versus an “overlay” helps homeowners communicate confidently with contractors, make informed decisions, and better protect their home.
This glossary is a helpful reference. When discussing roofing projects, don’t hesitate to ask contractors to explain any unfamiliar terms. Reputable professionals will happily clarify to ensure you’re comfortable with the work being proposed.
A well-maintained roof is key to a safe, secure home. By learning a little about its components, you can take a more active role in keeping your roof in great shape for years to come.
