Glossary of Roofing Terms

Understand Common Roofing Terms

Roofing by Curry is here to make sure you understand absolutely everything about your roof. See below for a glossary of common roofing terms. If you need more information, call us at (941) 613-5637.

Our Roofing Glossary

Asphalt - A bitumen-based substance that is used as a waterproofing agent for many roofing materials.

Blistering - Bubbles in a shingle caused by moisture that becomes trapped under or inside the material.

Blow-offs - Shingles that are torn off a roof by high winds.

Deck - The foundation of a roof onto which roofing materials are applied, typically made of plywood, wood boards, or planks.

Dry rot - Wood rot caused by fungi that are permitted to grow due to excessive moisture resulting from roof leaks or condensation.

Eaves - The first three feet of the lower edge of a roof, extending from the fascia to the outside wall.

Flashing - Pieces of metal or other material used to waterproof around projections through a roof, such as skylights, chimneys and vents, or along other vulnerable areas, such as roof valleys.

Granules - Tiny rocks which are coated with ceramic and fired, then applied to asphalt shingle mats as protection from the elements.

Low-slope roof - A roof in which the highest point is installed at a slope of 2:12 or less. Special installations must be used for low-slope roofs to permit proper drainage.

Steep-slope roof - A roof in which the highest point is installed at a slope higher than 4:12.

Underlayment - On a roof, underlayment acts as a secondary barrier against water leaks. For most manufacturers, underlayment is necessary for a valid warranty. It typically is manufactured as an asphalt-based roll.

Valley - The area where two roof slopes meet, creating a V shape. Roof valleys channel large amounts of water and are particularly vulnerable to leakage.

Ventilation - A roofing term that refers to the movement of air within an enclosed space, such as an attic.

Warranty - A written contract between a roofing manufacturer and the purchaser of roofing materials that outlines the liability the manufacturer will assume in the event of problems with the roofing system.