Roofing terms are like umbrellas—you only need them when you need protection from the elements. But if you’re beginning the process of repairing or replacing your roof, it’s nice to be familiar with some of them. That way, you can speak the same language as your roofer and it also gives you an element of control over the job as you better understand your roofer’s concerns and questions.
We all know roofing involves shingles, hammers, and nails. But here are eight of the most commonly used roofing terms that are important to roofers and may come up in conversation with them as they plan your roofing job. I like to think of it as cliff notes (admit it, we all used them to get through high school English) for homeowners.
1. Squares
Roofs are measured in squares. A square is 100 square feet. For example, if the contractor says your roof is 17 squares, that means your roof is 1,700 square feet.
2. Deck
The surface where the roofer applies the shingles. The deck is usually made of plywood, wood beams, or planks and supported by the rafters of your home.
3. Underlayment
An asphalt-based material that is rolled out and laid on top of the deck before the shingles are installed. The underlayment provides extra resistance to water.
4. Slope
The incline of your roof. The slope is calculated by a ratio (inches per foot) of how high the roof rises to how far across it runs horizontally. For example, if your roof has a slope of “6 in 10,” that means your roof rises 6 inches for every 10 inches it runs across.
5. Low-Slope
A roof with little incline, considered 4/12 in pitch. Low-slopes are more prone to buildup from water and ice and special care must be taken in choosing materials and installation techniques.
6. Penetration
Anything that sticks out of the roof, such as, the chimney or a skylight. Since water runoff can get underneath the shingles at areas of penetration, these areas must be given special attention by the roofer.
7. Flashing
A metal material used to waterproof your roof. Pieces of metal are applied around penetrations, such as chimneys, to keep water from running under the shingles and causing leaks. A healthy flashing is critical in preventing water damage.
8. Dormers
A window coming out of the slope of the roof. A dormer has its own roof and provides extra storage. If you have several dormers, it is taken into account in the estimate of your roof.
At Pro-Home Services, we make sure every customer understands the roofing process before we begin and experts will walk you through the plan every step of the way. With more than 15 years of experience, Pro-Homes is backed by numerous awards, certifications, and customer reviews. From the roof, to your siding, windows, and doors, the Pro-Homes experts do it all! Give us a call today at 630-790-0800.
