Know the Basics Of A New Roof

As you prepare for an estimate appointment for your new roof, you should familiarize yourself with some key terms. Understanding basic roofing terms will allow you ask more in-depth questions to the companies competing for your business.  In an effort to support your research, Windows on Washington has put together the following list of many important terms commonly used by roofing contractors.

Understanding the Basic Roof System Components
Most roof systems are comprised of these five essential components:

Drainage - A roof features elements like shape, slope and layout that impact your roof’s ability to shed water.

Flashing - Sheet metal and other materials referred to as flashing are installed into a roof system's various joints and valleys to prevent water from seeping in.

Roof coverings  - This can include shingles, tile, slate or metal along with an underlayment that protects the sheathing from exposure and weather.

Roof Structure - Rafters and trusses make up the roof’s structure and are constructed to support the sheathing.

Sheathing - This includes the boards or sheet materials that are fastened to the roof’s rafters to cover your house or structure.

Other Useful Roofing Terms:

Architectural Shingles - shingles made from fiberglass and asphalt that are laminated or textured to give them an attractive 3D look.

Closed Valley - an area of the roof where the shingles are installed over the valley flashing, so that the metal is not exposed.

Collar - a flange placed over a stack type vent to seal the roof around the pipe.

Dormer - a small, decorative structure projecting from a sloped roof that usually has a window.

Eave - the horizontal lower edge of a sloped roof that overhangs the exterior wall of the home.

Fascia - the vertical roof trim is found just under the roof where it covers the rafter tails.

Ice Dam - ice formed at the lower edge of a roof that is caused by the thawing and re-freezing of water. 

Ice & Water Shield - a self-healing, impenetrable roofing membrane installed under shingles to prevent water from forming an ice dam.

Roofing Square - 100 square feet of roofing material.

Roof Ventilation - a system for removing hot air and moisture from the attic area, which is important to the roof's ability to maintain an even inside temperature level and prevent any damage to the new roofing system.

Soffit - the finished underside of the eaves.

At Windows on Washington, we provide our customers with quality products and expert workmanship to improve the comfort, beauty and energy efficiency of their homes.  And we do it with unparalleled service.  Our work is not complete without your total satisfaction.  If you have any questions about your roofing project do not hesitate to call our experts at 703-378-1190 or click the link below.