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Introduction
When it comes to home improvement, roofing is often a topic shrouded in jargon and technical terms. At Equity Roofing, we believe that an informed homeowner is an empowered one. That's why we've put together this detailed glossary of roofing terms you're likely to encounter when discussing a roofing project. By understanding these terms, you'll be better equipped to make decisions and communicate effectively with Central PA roofers.
Roof Shingles: The First Line of Defense
Roof shingles are the outermost layer of your roof, visible from the ground. They are typically flat, rectangular pieces that overlap to form a protective barrier against the elements. Shingles can be made from a variety of materials, including asphalt, wood, slate, and tile. Their primary function is to shield your home from rain, snow, and other environmental factors.
Decking: The Roof's Foundation
Also known as sheathing, decking is the flat, foundational layer of your roof. It's directly attached to the attic and provides the structural support for the rest of the roofing system. Decking is commonly made from plywood or composite wood materials like OBS (Oriented Strand Board).
Underlayment: The Unsung Hero
Underlayment is installed directly onto the decking and sits beneath the shingles. This layer serves as an additional barrier against water and moisture. The most common types of underlayment include asphalt-saturated felt, rubberized asphalt, and synthetic materials.
Penetrations: Points of Vulnerability
Penetrations refer to any elements that protrude from the roof, such as chimneys, skylights, and vents. These areas are particularly susceptible to leaks and require additional protection, usually in the form of flashing.
Flashing: The Guardian of Penetrations
Flashing is used to safeguard penetrations from water intrusion. These are metal strips or pieces installed around protrusions like chimneys and skylights. Flashing directs water away from these vulnerable areas and into the gutters, preventing leaks.
Square: The Roofer's Yardstick
In roofing, a "square" is a unit of measurement equivalent to 100 square feet. This term helps Central Pennsylvania roofing contractors estimate the amount of material needed for a project. For instance, if your roof is 20 squares, it means its total area is 2000 square feet.
Eaves and Ridge: The Roof's Edges and Peak
Eaves are the overhanging edges of your roof, located just above the gutters. The ridge, on the other hand, is the highest point where two roof segments meet. Both are critical components that require proper installation and maintenance.
Ridge Vents: The Breath of Your Roof
Ridge vents are installed along the ridge line and allow hot air from the attic to escape. This helps in regulating temperature and moisture levels within the attic, contributing to the longevity of your roof.
Valleys: Where Roof Slopes Meet
Valleys are formed where two slopes of the roof intersect. These areas are prone to water collection and thus require high-quality flashing for effective water drainage.
Gutters: The Roof's Drainage System
Gutters are installed along the eaves and serve to direct water away from the roof and the foundation of the house. They are an integral part of any roofing system and require regular cleaning and maintenance.
Roofing Styles: Hip, Gable, and Shed
Different roofing styles offer varying levels of complexity and aesthetic appeal. Hip roofs have four sloping sides, gable roofs have two, and shed roofs have just one sloping side. Each style has its own set of advantages and challenges.
Slope vs. Pitch: Measuring Roof Incline
While often used interchangeably, slope and pitch are distinct measurements. Slope refers to the angle of incline and is measured in a ratio format, like 6:12. Pitch, less commonly used, is expressed in fractions and relates to the vertical rise over the span of the roof.
Conclusion
Understanding these key roofing terms will not only make your conversations with roofing companies in Central PA more productive but also help you make informed decisions. At Equity Roofing, we're committed to providing top-notch Central PA roofing services that meet your needs and exceed your expectations. Feel free to reach out to us for any of your roofing concerns.
Read also our blog on How to Select the Ideal Roof for Your Home: 8 Crucial Factors to Weigh.