Understanding roofing terminology can be challenging for homeowners who are not familiar with the industry. However, knowing these terms is essential when discussing a roofing project with contractors or making informed decisions about roof repairs and replacements. Trejo Construction Corp, serving homeowners across New Jersey, is here to help you become familiar with common roofing terms. This guide will empower you with the knowledge needed to navigate your roofing project with confidence.
1. Shingles
Shingles are the individual pieces of material that cover a roof, typically made of asphalt, wood, metal, slate, or tile. They are installed in overlapping rows to provide a watertight barrier against the elements.
2. Underlayment
The underlayment is a protective layer installed beneath the shingles. It acts as an additional barrier against moisture and helps to prevent leaks. Common types of underlayment include felt (tar paper) and synthetic materials.
3. Flashing
Flashing refers to thin sheets of metal or other waterproof material installed around roof features such as chimneys, vents, and skylights. Flashing prevents water from seeping into joints and seams, protecting your home from leaks.
4. Ridge
The ridge is the horizontal line at the top of the roof where two sloping sides meet. Ridge caps, a special type of shingle or material, are installed along the ridge to protect the roof’s peak from water penetration.
5. Eave
The eave is the edge of the roof that extends beyond the exterior wall of the house. Eaves help to direct rainwater away from the walls and foundation, preventing water damage.
6. Soffit
The soffit is the underside of the eave. It provides ventilation to the attic and helps prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to mold and rot.
7. Fascia
The fascia is the vertical band under the edge of the roof. It serves as a finishing edge, supports the lower edge of the roof tiles or shingles, and holds the gutters in place.
8. Gutter
Gutters are channels attached to the eaves of the roof, designed to collect and direct rainwater away from the house. Properly functioning gutters prevent water from damaging the roof, walls, and foundation.
9. Valley
A valley is the V-shaped area where two sloping roof sections meet. Valleys are critical for directing water off the roof and into the gutters. Proper installation of valley flashing is essential to prevent leaks.
10. Drip Edge
The drip edge is a metal strip installed along the edges of the roof to direct water away from the fascia and into the gutters. It helps prevent water from seeping under the shingles and causing damage.
11. Hip
A hip is the external angle formed by the intersection of two sloping roof planes. Hip roofs have a ridge at the top and extend downward on all sides, providing additional structural integrity and wind resistance.
12. Pitch
Pitch refers to the steepness or slope of the roof, typically expressed as a ratio of vertical rise to horizontal run (e.g., 4:12). The pitch affects the roof’s drainage capabilities and the types of materials suitable for installation.
13. Square
A square is a unit of measurement used in roofing, equal to 100 square feet. Roofing materials and labor costs are often calculated based on the number of squares required for a project.
14. Rafters
Rafters are the structural beams that support the roof deck and roofing materials. They run from the ridge to the eaves and are essential for maintaining the roof’s shape and integrity.
15. Decking
The decking (or sheathing) is the layer of plywood or oriented strand board (OSB) attached to the roof rafters. It provides a solid surface for attaching the underlayment and shingles.
16. Blistering
Blistering occurs when bubbles or raised areas form on shingles due to trapped moisture or poor ventilation. Blistering can lead to premature roof deterioration and requires prompt attention.
17. Curling
Curling happens when the edges of shingles lift or turn upward, often due to age, improper installation, or inadequate ventilation. Curling shingles are more susceptible to wind and water damage.
18. Ice Dam
An ice dam is a ridge of ice that forms at the edge of the roof, preventing melting snow from draining properly. Ice dams can cause water to back up under the shingles, leading to leaks and roof damage.
Conclusion
By familiarizing yourself with these common roofing terms, you can better understand your roofing project and communicate effectively with your contractor. At Trejo Construction Corp, we are dedicated to providing quality roofing services and ensuring our clients are well-informed throughout the process. Whether you need a roof repair, replacement, or a professional inspection, our experienced team is here to help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can meet your roofing needs in New Jersey.
Trejo Construction proudly serves a diverse range of cities across New Jersey, including Howell, Allendale, Belleville, Bergenfield, Bloomfield, Bogota, Caldwell, Carlstadt, Cedar Grove, Clifton, East Orange, East Rutherford, Elmwood Park, Englewood, Fair Lawn, Fort Lee, Franklin Lakes, Garfield, Glen Ridge, Hackensack, Harrington Park, Hasbrouck Heights, Haworth, Hoboken, Jersey City, Kearny, Leonia, Little Falls, Lodi, Lyndhurst, Mahwah, Maplewood, Maywood, Midland Park, Millburn, Montclair, Moonachie, New Milford, Newark, North Arlington, North Bergen, Nutley, Oakland, Oradell, Palisades Park, Paramus, Park Ridge, Passaic, Paterson, Pompton Lakes, Ridgefield, Aberdeen, Asbury Park, Bayonne, Bedminster, Bernards, Bound Brook, Bridgewater, Carteret,
Clark, Cranbury, Dunellen, East Brunswick, Edison, Elizabeth, Franklin Township, Freehold, Highland Park, Hillsborough, Hoboken, Holmdel, Howell, Jamesburg, Keansburg, Keyport, Linden, Manalapan, Marlboro, Metuchen, Middlesex, Milltown, Monroe Township, New Brunswick, North Brunswick, Old Bridge, Perth Amboy, Piscataway, Plainsboro, Rahway, Raritan, Sayreville, Atlantic City, Barnegat, Barrington, Bellmawr, Berlin, Bridgeton, Burlington, Camden, Cape May, Cherry Hill, Clementon, Collingswood, Delran, East Greenwich, Egg Harbor Township, Evesham, Florence, Glassboro, Gloucester City, Haddonfield, Hammonton, Harrison Township, Lindenwold, Magnolia, Mantua, Medford, Merchantville, Millville, Monroe Township, Mount Holly, Mount Laurel, Oaklyn, Ocean City, Palmyra, Pennsauken, Pine Hill, Pitman, Runnemede, Salem, and Somerdale. Our commitment to excellence extends across a wide geographical area, ensuring that residents in these vibrant communities have access to our top-notch roofing services.
