We have created a glossary of roofing terms in order to help you better understand any roof installation, repair or replacement we may perform at your home or building.
Houston Texas Area Glossary Of Common Roofing Terms
Architectural Shingle: A premium, multi-layered asphalt shingle that enhances a roof’s appearance.
Asphalt Roofing System: A roofing system that uses asphalt shingles, underlayment, and flashing.
Asphalt Shingle: A common roofing material made from asphalt-impregnated fiberglass or organic mat.
Cool Roof: A roofing system designed to reflect more sunlight and absorb less heat.
Decking: The substrate material used as the base for roofing materials.
Dormer: A protruding window or structural element in a sloping roof.
Drip Edge: A metal strip installed along the edges of the roof to direct water away from the fascia and into the gutters.
Eaves: The horizontal edges of a roof that overhang the walls of a building.
EPDM: Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer, a synthetic rubber commonly used in flat roofing.
Fascia: The trim board or panel installed along the eaves to protect the roof structure and provide an aesthetic finish.
Flashing Cement: A sealant used to bond and seal flashing materials.
Flashing: Metal strips or sheets used to prevent water penetration around roof openings, such as chimneys, vents, and skylights.
Flat Roof: A roof with minimal pitch or slope, commonly found on commercial buildings.
Gable Roof: A roof with two sloping sides that form a gable at the end.
Gutter: A trough that collects rainwater and channels it away from the roof and foundation.
Hip Roof: A roof with sloping sides and all sides meeting at a ridge or peak.
Ice Dam: A ridge of ice that forms at the edge of the roof and prevents proper drainage, potentially causing water damage.
Metal Roofing: Roofing materials made from various metals, including steel, aluminum, and copper.
Pitch: The steepness or angle of a roof, typically expressed as a ratio (e.g., 4:12).
Rafter: A structural member that supports the roof deck and gives the roof its shape.
Rake Edge: The inclined edge of a gable roof, often protected by trim.
Ridge Vent: A ventilation system installed at the peak of the roof to allow for proper airflow and reduce heat and moisture buildup.
Roof Coating: A protective layer applied to extend the life of a roofing system.
Roof Deck: The structural surface, typically plywood or OSB, on which roofing materials are installed.
Roof Elevation: A detailed drawing or plan showing the roof’s dimensions, slopes, and features.
Roof Inspection: A thorough examination of the roof’s condition to assess its integrity and identify any issues.
Roof Load: The weight that the roof structure can support, including snow, wind, and equipment.
Roof Pitch Angle: The angle at which a roof slopes, expressed in degrees.
Roof Rake: The inclined edge of a gable roof that extends beyond the house’s exterior walls.
Roof Sheathing: The layer of material attached to the roof rafters to provide structural support.
Roof Trimmer: A carpenter skilled in framing and constructing roof structures.
Roof Valley Flashing: Metal flashing installed in roof valleys to direct water flow.
Roof Valley: The V-shaped intersection of two sloping roof sections.
Roof Ventilation: The process of allowing air to circulate through the attic or roof space.
Roof Walkway Pads: Protective mats or walkways used to prevent damage to roofing materials.
Roof Warranty: A manufacturer’s or contractor’s guarantee on the roofing materials and workmanship.
Roofing Adhesive: A substance used to bond roofing materials together.
Roofing Felt: A tar-saturated paper or synthetic material used as an underlayment.
Roofing Nails: Specialized nails designed for securing roofing materials.
Saddle: A small roof-like structure used to divert water around obstacles on the roof.
Shingle Overhang: The portion of the shingle that extends beyond the edge of the roof.
Shingle Tab: The exposed part of an asphalt shingle, usually with adhesive for attachment.
Skylight: A window installed in the roof to allow natural light into interior spaces.
Soffit: The underside of the eaves, often vented to provide ventilation to the attic.
Solar Roof: Roofing systems integrated with solar panels to generate electricity.
Tarping: Covering a damaged roof temporarily with a tarp to prevent further water intrusion.
Truss: A prefabricated framework used to support the roof structure.
Underlayment: A layer of material (often felt or synthetic) placed on the roof deck before shingles to provide additional weather protection.
Valley: The angle formed where two sloping roof sections meet, typically requiring special flashing.
Vent Pipe Boot: A rubber or metal covering used to seal and protect vent pipes that protrude through the roof.
If you have a home or building in the Houston area then you are welcome to contact us (click here) to schedule an inspection. You also may look at the areas we serve and our primary roofing and remodeling services.
Thank you and we look forward to talking with you soon.
