Understanding roofing industry jargon can greatly enhance your ability to make informed decisions regarding your home. Even just a basic grasp of certain terms can go a long way in affecting the outcome of your roof repair, replacement or maintenance project. LePage and Sons Roofing LLC lists down some of them in this blog post.
Roof Covering
The covering is the topmost part of your roof, which is also known as the roof surface. It is usually made of asphalt shingles, metal panels, wood shakes, clay or concrete tiles, or slate. It is the most visible part of your roof, and often contributes to the overall appearance of your home.
Underlayment
The underlayment is a water-resistant barrier material installed directly onto your roof deck prior to placing the roof covering. It provides the roof structure with an additional layer of protection against water infiltration. Asphalt-saturated felt was once the most commonly used type during roof installations, but synthetic types have since become the go-to choice because of their numerous advantages.
Flashing
Flashing is a material, usually metal, installed at any break, joint, or angle in the roof to prevent water from penetrating and causing damage. It is most commonly used around objects that protrude from the roof like chimneys, vents, or skylights.
Decking
Also known as “sheathing”, the roof decking is a flat surface, often made of oriented strand board (OSB) or plywood, installed over the structure’s frames (rafters or trusses). It is the surface where the other layers, such as the underlayment and the outer roof covering, are installed.
Vents
Your roof has a network of vents that facilitate air circulation to help keep the attic at a consistent temperature. Intake vents, which are found on the underside of the roof overhang or the soffits, draw fresh air into the attic. The entry of said air pushes the stale attic air out of the roof via the exhaust vents, which are located at the topmost parts of the roof, particularly the ridge.
Whether you’re a rookie or a seasoned homeowner, our roofers at LePage and Sons Roofing LLC will make sure that you know what you’re getting before you sign up for a roofing project. Call us at (508) 295-6483, or fill out our contact form to get started.