Roofing Terminology: Glossary of Common Roofing Terms
Roofing Terminology: Glossary Of Common
Roofing Terms To Know In Fort Worth, TX
Words To Help You Understand Your Roofing Project And
Communicate More Easily With Your Contractor
Getting a new roof for your Fort Worth, TX, home is an excellent investment that will last for years. It can add style and beauty to your property, boosting curb appeal. But all the jargon used during the project can confuse the average homeowner – especially if you’re not a roofing expert.
To make things easier for you, we’ve created this helpful glossary of the most commonly used words and phrases. Here are all the terms you need to know for a Texas roof replacement.
Roof Decking
The roof decking is the foundation of the entire structure – it’s the piece to which all components are nailed and fastened. This part of a roofing system cannot get wet, or it will rot. Roof decking can come in two forms – sheet decking and plank decking. Sheet decking can be made from OSB or plywood, while plank decking comprises wooden planks.
Roof decking does not always need to be replaced during a roof replacement. However, if it is old, damaged, or rotted, it will need to be repaired or replaced to ensure the structural integrity of the new roof.
Roof Underlayment
As we mentioned, the roof decking cannot get wet, so contractors must install a layer of protection called roof underlayment. The underlayment can be water-resistant or waterproof, composed of asphalt and a fibrous mat made of felt or fiberglass.
There are different types and qualities, so be sure to consult a local professional to make the best choice for your home.
Roof Flashing
Generally a metal or heavy-duty plastic material, roof flashing is installed around all penetrations and edges of a roof. Its job is to prevent moisture from entering the layers beneath. Common locations where you will find flashing include valleys, around chimneys, on the edge of skylights, and around vents, where the material can flush the water to the gutters.
Penetrations
A penetration in a roof is any disruption or break in the continuity of the structure. But not all penetrations are from damage – things like chimneys, skylights, and vents all create penetrations in the roof’s surface.
Eaves
The edges of the roof that overhang the house’s walls are referred to as the eaves. This is where your gutters are placed.
Drip Edge
A drip edge is a rigid material installed at the roof’s edge. Its purpose is to extend shingles over the eaves and gutters while keeping them off the deck. This design assists in controlling the direction of dripping water to prevent it from damaging underlying components.
Ridges
Where two lines intersect at the highest point on a roof is called a ridge. This location requires special shingles to protect the roof and ridge vents to allow hot air to escape the attic.
Valleys
Valleys are the exact opposite of ridges. They are the low points where two lines intersect. They are where the water will pool if no flashing is installed and are often the first place where infiltration can occur.
Slope
Slope is the term roofing contractors use to refer to your roof’s angle of incline. It is usually represented as a ratio or fraction and defined as the number of vertical inches of rise over a horizontal run.
Pitch
The pitch of a roof is its incline. You can calculate this by dividing the roof’s rise by the span from one wall to another. It is generally expressed as a fraction but is less precise than slope. However, it will still give you a general idea of how steep your roof is.
Roofing Square
One hundred square feet of roof area is one roofing square. This measurement determines the cost of service and how much material will be needed to cover the roof. It might be helpful to consider this as you would new flooring or tile. You need to know the area of coverage needed before purchasing materials.
Prorated
When a material warranty is prorated, it means the products will slowly lose value every year that it is in place. This warranty refers to the manufacturer’s warranty, not the workmanship warranty offered by the contractor.
Non-Prorated
Non-prorated also refers to a manufacturer’s material warranty. In this case, the material does not depreciate over time.
Fascia
The fascia is wood trim located right underneath the roofing on the perimeter of the building. It is typically nailed to the end of trusses or rafters. Installers use the fascia to hang gutters.
Soffit
The soffit is an area that is exposed and is installed underneath the eaves or overhangs. It is a common place for roofing contractors to install an intake vent.
Do You Need A New Roof In Fort Worth, TX?
Get The Best Results In Town
If you’re ready to make a serious investment in your Fort Worth, TX, home with a roof replacement, you want to ensure the job is done right. Don’t waste your time on companies focusing on high-stakes sales pressure and shoddy products.
Here at First Texas Roofing, we only offer the industry’s best products with top-of-the-line installation services. When you work with us, you get the best of everything, from communication to results.
Call us today at (817) 821-0323 to schedule your free estimate.