When installing a roof replacement or making needed repairs, it’s helpful to know some common roofing terms, so you can make informed decisions.

Some terms you may need to know when speaking with roofing contractors include:

Roof Decking

Roof decking is typically wooden boards that provide the framing of a roof. Shingles or other roofing materials are placed over the roof decking, so this part of the roof is not visible until the roofing is removed. When completing a roof replacement, there may be an extra charge if damage is found in the roof decking, and this cannot be known until the decking is visible.

Roof Flashing

Flashing is used to direct water away from areas of the roof, such as vents or chimneys, that may be prone to leaking. Roof flashing is usually made from thin galvanized steel.

Roof Underlayment

The roof underlayment is placed over the roof deck and under the shingles. Quality roof underlayment provides extra protection against the elements.

Ice and Water Shield

Roofs are often damaged by ice dams or wind-driven rain. An ice and water shield helps to prevent this type of damage.

Rakes and Eaves

Rakes are sloped portions of the roof that go from the peak of the roof to the eaves. Eaves overhang the bottom edge of a section of roofing.

Gables

Gables are an enclosed portion of the wall that extends between two roof pitches. Gables are found in various shapes, and some homes have more than one gable.

Drip Edge

Drip edges are L-shaped metal sheets that protect the roof by helping to funnel water away from the fascia and directing it to the gutter.

Soffit & Fascia

Fascia is a horizontal expanse that sits at the end of the rafters. Soffits are installed underneath the rafter tails.

Starter Shingles

The starter shingles, sometimes called starter strips, are the first set of shingles installed on the roof, and they are installed prior to the first finish shingles.

Contact Our Experienced Roofing Contractors

Since 1988, Feazel has provided superior roofing services, helping thousands of homeowners get the roof replacements and repairs they need. Contact our roofing company today for more information about our services and to schedule a free consultation and accurate roof replacement or repair estimate.