A Guide to Roofing Terminology

These are the flat rectangular pieces of overlaying material that cover your roof. They are fabricated of different materials such as asphalt, slate, wood, and metal. The base layer is called starter shingles, and the remaining shingles are laid on top of it. The final layer is called the ridge course. Shingles not only lend an aesthetic quality to your home, but they protect your roof from the elements. They also help control the temperature of your home. For example, in colder climates, dark-colored shingles can help keep a home warmer.

Flashing is a material, usually metal, that is installed on a roof to redirect water away from areas such as chimneys, roof vents, and valleys. Flashing that is applied on an incline is called step flashing. You may notice flashing when you see metal around the base of a chimney.

A valley is the juncture of two roof slopes that form an interior angle. Valleys can be prone to water damage and in cold climates, ice dams. In these circumstances, a special valley flashing is installed.

Roof pitch is also referred to as roof slope and defines how steep the roof is. The purpose of roof pitch is to allow for water and snow runoff. In some climates, building codes will mandate roof slope.

Roof ventilation, as the name implies, consists of vents in the roof that allow air to circulate through the attic and are vital in controlling the interior temperature of your home. Poor ventilation can cause the roof to overheat or moisture to accumulate, which can lead to mold growth and increased energy bills.

Hailstones can impact shingles with enough force to cause dents or bruises. This damage may not always be immediately visible but can lead to accelerated wear and tear over time, reducing the lifespan of the roof.

Larger hailstones or repeated impacts can cause shingles to crack or break, compromising their ability to protect the roof from water infiltration.

Hail and wind impact can dislodge the granules that cover asphalt shingles, exposing the underlying material to the elements. This can lead to deterioration of the shingles and potential leaks.

In severe cases, hailstones can puncture or tear through roofing materials, creating openings through which water can enter the roof structure.

While there is no need to understand all the intricacies of a roof replacement, a general grasp of the fundamentals will serve you well in the long run. The more important thing you need to consider when researching a roof job is finding a partner you can trust for your residential, multi-family, or business roofing needs. You can rely on Premier Roofing, your trusted local roofing company, to give you a fair estimate for your upcoming roof replacement. We have branches throughout the U.S., and our skilled roof installers will explain the process to you and replace your roof with materials of the highest quality. So, if your roof needs replacement, use our online contact form to schedule a free, no-obligation roof inspection.