Common Parts & Layers to a Roof

For a homeowner, there is one thing you know. You need a new roof. But meeting a professional can be kind of daunting and trying to figure out all the lingo that goes with what they are talking about can be very confusing. We will break down the most common terms below to help you know what they are talking about:

Roof Ridge: Otherwise known as the ridge of the roof, it usually is a horizontal line running the length of the roof where two planes usually meet up.

Ridge Vent: This is an exhaust vent that usually runs horizontally along the peak of the roof. This will allow the warm and humid air to escape from the attic.

Flashing: This is a metal material that is installed at all joint openings. It can be installed around chimneys and any windows and skylights as well to prevent leaks.

Hip: This is the intersection between two roof planes. These will meet to form a sloping ridge from the peak to the eave.

Roof Deck: Usually made of wood or plywood this is the structural base of the roof.

Roofing Underlayment: This usually adds extra protection on top of the roof deck.

Roof Valley: This is usually v shaped and is in between two sloping roofs joining together to create a run-off for water.

Roof Gable: Sometimes referred as a rake it is a triangular section of the outer wall at the peak of a roof.

Metal Drip Edge: This helps to manage dripping water by controlling water run off. This will usually help with protecting the underlying section of a wall.

Dormer: It is a raised section of a roof and usually contain a window that projects vertically through a roof.

Ice and Water Barrier: This is usually installed along eaves, valleys and side walls and other areas to protect against ice damage and rain.

Eave: The lower border of a roof and hangs over the wall.

Undereave Vent: These help draw cooler air into the attic and are located under the eaves.

Now that your a professional you will be able to understand what is going on in your meeting with your roofing contractor!