Common Roofing Terms Every Homeowner Should Know
Whether you’re planning a roof replacement, dealing with repairs, or simply trying to understand your contractor’s estimate, knowing basic roofing terminology can save you time, money, and confusion. Here are the essential terms every homeowner should understand.
Understanding Your Roof's Structure
Decking (or Sheathing): This is the wooden foundation of your roof, typically made from plywood or OSB boards. The decking sits on top of your rafters and provides the base for all other roofing materials to be installed. If your contractor mentions rotted decking, this is a serious issue that needs immediate attention.
Underlayment: Think of this as your roof’s second line of defense. Underlayment is a water-resistant barrier installed directly on top of the decking before the shingles are applied. Modern synthetic underlayment offers better protection than traditional felt paper and is essential for preventing leaks.
Flashing: Flashing refers to thin metal pieces installed around chimneys, vents, skylights, and valleys where two roof planes meet. These are the most vulnerable spots on your roof, and properly installed flashing is critical for preventing water intrusion.
Shingle Basics
Asphalt Shingles: The most common roofing material in America, asphalt shingles come in two types: three-tab (flat, uniform appearance) and architectural (dimensional, textured look). Architectural shingles typically last longer and offer better wind resistance.
Square: Roofing contractors measure in “squares” rather than square feet. One square equals 100 square feet of roof area. If your contractor says you need 25 squares of shingles, that means your roof is approximately 2,500 square feet.
Granules: Those small, sand-like particles on shingles aren’t just decorative. Granules protect the asphalt from UV rays and add fire resistance. If you’re seeing granules in your gutters, your shingles may be nearing the end of their lifespan.
Roof Design Elements
Pitch (or Slope): This describes how steep your roof is, expressed as a ratio. A 4:12 pitch means the roof rises 4 inches for every 12 inches of horizontal distance. Steeper pitches shed water better but cost more to install due to safety requirements.
Valley: Where two roof slopes meet and form a V-shape, creating a channel for water runoff. Valleys experience heavy water flow and require extra protection through proper flashing and installation techniques.
Ridge: The highest point of your roof where two slopes meet at the top. Ridge vents installed along this peak allow hot air to escape your attic, improving ventilation and energy efficiency.
Eave: The lower edge of your roof that overhangs the exterior wall. Proper eave construction with adequate ventilation helps prevent ice dams in winter and keeps your attic cooler in summer.
Ventilation Terms
Soffit Vents: Located under the eaves, these vents allow fresh air to enter your attic space. Proper ventilation prevents moisture buildup, reduces energy costs, and extends your roof’s lifespan.
Attic Ventilation: A balanced ventilation system with both intake vents (soffits) and exhaust vents (ridge or gable vents) keeps air flowing through your attic. Poor ventilation can void your shingle warranty and lead to premature roof failure.
Learn more about attic ventilation and ventilation techniques
Important Warranty Terms
Manufacturer’s Warranty: Covers defects in the roofing materials themselves. Premium shingles often come with 50-year warranties, but always read the fine print about prorated coverage.
Workmanship Warranty: Separate from the manufacturer’s warranty, this covers installation errors. Quality contractors offer substantial workmanship warranties, often 10 years or more on labor.
At Heritage Roofing, we are a Master Elite® contractor, which means that we are entrusted to offer GAF enhanced warranties, including the Golden Pledge® Limited Warranty. Learn more about how a GAF Master Elite warranty helps you today. Why Hiring a GAF Master Elite Contractor Protects Your Home article
Why This Matters
Understanding these terms helps you ask the right questions when getting estimates, spot potential issues during inspections, and communicate effectively with your roofing contractor. Don’t hesitate to ask your contractor to explain any terms you don’t understand—reputable professionals will gladly educate you about your investment.
When reviewing estimates or discussing your roof project, refer back to these definitions. An informed homeowner makes better decisions and is less likely to encounter surprises during the roofing process.
Have questions about your roof or need a free estimate? Contact Heritage Roofing today at (707) 544-4500 or contact us. Our experienced team is here to help Santa Rosa and North Bay homeowners make informed roofing decisions.