Last Updated on May 4, 2022 by Kravelv
Most homeowners buy roofing materials hoping they will last forever. Unfortunately, those materials may degrade before their expiry date when exposed to different climatic conditions. Repairing or replacing a roof is simple for those who understand roofing terminology.
But why is it so?
When you are familiar with roofing parts and terminology, you may immediately identify the source of a problem and repair it. Some roofers may advise you to replace the entire roof when doing so is unnecessary in order to profit from you. But you can’t do that if you already know what’s wrong with your roof.
If you plan to install a new roof and want to know the parts and terminologies used in roofing, we will help you. Once you buy the roofing material, ensure you get licensed roofing experts to install it. Before that, it’s worth knowing the common roofing terms.
Common Roofing Terms You Should Know
A house without a roof is incomplete. The roof protects your things against damage by elements like high winds and heavy rains. For that reason, you need to understand the terminologies used by other homeowners and roofing contractors. To learn more follow this https://www.roofmasterlubbock.com/identifying-parts-roof-functions/
Here are the terminologies you need to know about roofing.
1. Shingles
Shingles are the roof’s topmost part that protects the entire system from elements like water and snow. You can get shingles made of metal, wood, and clay. Ensure you consider the durability and sturdiness of the shingle material before buying.
2. Underlayment
Roofers install underlayment under the shingles to protect the inner roofing materials. The underlayment also acts as a secondary roof when the shingles age. It covers the rafters to prevent water damage when there is a missing or broken shingle.
3. Rafters
The rafters support the shingles, underlayment, and the entire roofing structure. The roofers fix them to run from one end of the wall to the other. You can get rafters from different materials like wood and metal.
4. Fascia
Fascia is the part of the roof installed below the edges to support the gutters. It can be painted in different colors to enhance the home’s curb appeal and increase its value.
5. Eaves
Eaves are essential parts of the roof because they distribute their weight and add protection from climatic conditions like rain and direct sunlight. Homeowners can also decorate the eaves to make the house more beautiful.
6. Flashing
Flashing is installed at the points where the metal sheets and shingles join. They block any space in the connection that could lead to water penetration into the roof. Homeowners should hire roofers to ensure the flashing is correct to avoid water leakage.
7. Soffit
The soffit is another roof part installed to add protection to the system. Roofers fix them between the wall and fascia. You can also repaint them to match the home’s aesthetics and add curb appeal.
8. Valley
If you have a pitched roof, then it has a valley. It is the top part where the sloping shingles from both sides meet. The higher the valley, the higher your roof’s pitch. You can protect the roof from water leakage in the valley by installing a gutter-like piece.
9. Bridging
Bridging is a reroofing technique in which the roofer installs the new roof over the existing one. This method is less expensive because there is no need to tear down the previous roof.
10. Dormer
A dormer is a roofing structure that protrudes outwards from the roof. It could be a window, chimney, or other constructions. Roofers encourage dormers because they save on space. Besides, some protrusions increase the home’s curb appeal.
11. Roof Types
The two common roof types are flat and pitched roofs. These two are different in structure, and homeowners choose them depending on the weather conditions and preferences.
12. Flat Roofs
Homeowners prefer a flat roof because of its easy installation and also because it is cheaper. The roof type is common in dry climates. Furthermore, homeowners in wet climates should avoid flat roofs because of their inability to allow rainwater to run off the roof, causing leakage.
13. Pitched Roofs
Pitched roofs slope downwards to allow rainwater to run off the roof. It is aesthetically appealing, and the roof materials are available in different sizes and shapes. This roof type is essential for homes in rainy climates.
Importance of a Roof
The roof is an important feature of the house since it protects it from climatic factors such as rain and sunlight. Your household belongings will be exposed to these elements if you do not have it, and your family will be uncomfortable living in the house.
When choosing roofing materials, consider sturdiness, durability, and energy efficiency. This way, you’ll save on energy costs and not worry about roof replacements for a longer time. Some of the important reasons to maintain your roof are;
1. It Provides Structural Support
The roof acts as the backbone of your house. It protects the house’s structure by preventing rainwater and direct sun rays from hitting it directly. Electricians also install electrical wiring and plumbing materials under the rafters and shingles.
2. Protect the Home from Climatic Conditions
There would be no difference between being in the house and outside without a roof. The roof protects the home from elements like strong winds and direct sun rays. Your household items will also fade and damage when exposed to these elements.
When you notice roof leaks, contact a professional for an inspection. They identify the damaged roofing parts and repair them. Some of the reasons your roof is leaking are missing shingles. The shingles offer the first protection to the house.
3. Provide Insulation
You can install energy-efficient doors and windows, but you will continue paying high energy bills if your roof is old and damaged. The roof prevents air exchange with the outside world, although it depends on your buying roofing material.
For example, wood, clay, and slate are energy-efficient materials. They are more expensive than the other roofing materials but last longer and offer energy efficiency. When the house is in the correct temperatures, it becomes more comfortable.
Final Words
Knowing the roof parts might seem unimportant until you experience roofing problems and don’t know how to identify the parts. The knowledge helps you know what to tell the roofer, and they can also instruct you on how to fix your roof.
