A Comprehensive Guide to Roofing Terminology

Understanding the fundamental aspects of roofing not only helps homeowners make smarter choices but also ensures long-term durability and protection for their property. Whether planning a new installation or simply maintaining an existing roof, having knowledge of key components is essential. In this article, we delve into essential elements such as anatomy, coverings, materials, and tools, explore roofing construction steps, and answer common FAQs.

Table Of Contents:

Roof Framing Anatomy
Roof Coverings
Roofing Materials
Shingle Styles
Roofing Tools
Roofing Construction Steps
Roofing FAQs

Roof Framing Anatomy

Collar Ties

Collar ties are horizontal beams that connect opposing rafters near the roof’s peak. They prevent the roof from separating or sagging under its own weight, add lateral stability, and reduce outward thrust on the walls.

Eaves and Eave Membranes

The eaves of a roof are the overhanging edges that extend beyond the building’s exterior walls. They protect by channeling rainwater away from the building’s walls and foundation. Eaves are a vital part of a roof's design, improving ventilation and adding aesthetic appeal. Proper installation and waterproofing of eaves help prevent water damage, mold growth, and ice dams.

To enhance water protection, eave membranes—also known as self-adhered or peel-and-stick membranes—are installed along the roof’s edges. These membranes create a watertight barrier between the decking and shingles, especially in cold climates prone to ice dams. The membrane is usually made from bituminous materials that self-seal around nails and other fasteners, ensuring a durable seal against moisture.

Fascia

The fascia is a horizontal board that runs along the roof edge, covering the ends of the rafters or trusses. It supports the lower edge of the roof and is where gutters are attached. Fascia also gives the roof a finished appearance.

Gable

The gable is the triangular portion of a wall between the edges of a sloped roof. It’s typically found in gabled roofs, where two sloping roof sections meet at the ridge. Gables help direct water away from the roof and provide additional space inside the attic.

Lookout

Lookouts are horizontal supports that extend outward from the walls to help hold the rake overhang in place. They are typically found in roofs with extended eaves, providing extra support for the overhanging roof section.

Rafters

Rafters are long, sloping beams that run from the roof’s ridge down to the eaves, forming the roof’s skeleton. They support the roof deck and shingles, distributing the roof's weight to the load-bearing walls.

Rake

The rake is the sloped edge of a gabled roof that runs from the eaves to the ridge. It is the exposed side of the roof and may overhang the walls to provide protection from weather. Depending on the roof design, a rake can be left open or covered.

Ridge

The ridge is the highest point of the roof where two roof planes meet. It runs horizontally along the roof’s peak and supports the sloping sections. Ridge vents are also often installed at the ridge to allow for proper attic ventilation.

Ridge Board

The ridge board is the horizontal beam at the highest point of the roof, where the rafters meet. It provides structural support and is a central anchor for the rafters, maintaining the roof’s shape.

Soffit

The soffit is the underside of the roof’s overhang, located between the fascia and the exterior wall. It helps ventilate the attic and provides protection from pests. Soffits can be made of vinyl, aluminum, or wood.

Trusses

Trusses are pre-engineered structural frameworks that support the roof. They consist of rafters, ceiling joists, and other supports in a triangular arrangement. Trusses provide superior support compared to traditional rafters and are commonly used in modern construction.

Valley

A valley is the area where two sloping sections of the roof meet. It creates a channel that directs water off the roof, which is critical in preventing water accumulation and leaks in complex roof designs.

Roof Coverings

Fastener Attachments

Fastener attachments secure roofing materials like shingles, metal panels, or tiles to the roof decking. These include nails, screws, or other specialized fasteners designed to withstand weather conditions. Proper fastener selection is critical to ensure everything remains in place during extreme weather like high winds.

Ridge Cap

A ridge cap is installed along the peak of a sloped roof where two sections meet. It covers the seam between the roof planes and provides a finished look. More importantly, the ridge cap helps prevent water from entering the roof and allows ventilation if it’s a vented cap.

Starter Strip

The starter strip is the first row of shingles or materials placed at the roof's edge. It provides a secure base for the first row of full-sized shingles or tiles and helps prevent wind uplift at the roof’s edges. Starter strips also ensure a straight line for the rest of the roof covering, aiding in the aesthetic and functional layout.

Roofing Materials

Drip Edge

This metal flashing is installed along the roof's edges to direct water away from the fascia and prevent water damage.

EPDM

EPDM is a synthetic rubber membrane widely used for flat roofs. It's highly durable, weather-resistant, and an excellent choice for low-slope applications.

Flashing

Flashing is metal sheeting installed around areas prone to leaks, such as chimneys, vents, and skylights. It directs water away from these vulnerable spots to prevent water intrusion.

Ridge Vents

Ridge vents run along the roof's peak, allowing hot, moist air to escape from the attic. They are essential for proper ventilation. Without ridge vents, roofs are prone to moisture buildup, potentially shortening the lifespan of roofing materials.

Sheathing (Roof Decking)

Sheathing, or roof decking, is the flat surface on top of the rafters and provides the base for roofing materials like shingles. It is typically made of plywood or OSB (oriented strand board).

Underlayment

The underlayment is a protective layer between the roof deck and the shingles. It is a secondary barrier against moisture and leaks caused by wind-driven rain or ice dams. Common materials include felt and synthetic underlayments.

Shingle Styles

Shingle styles vary greatly depending on the material, aesthetics, and functionality. Here is a breakdown of popular shingle types used in residential and commercial roofing.

Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles are the most commonly used roofing material in North America. They are made from a fiberglass base coated with asphalt and mineral granules. There are two main varieties: three-tab shingles and architectural (or dimensional) shingles. They are popular due to their affordability, durability, and ease of installation, making them ideal for most residential homes.

Tile Shingles

Typically made from clay tiles or concrete tiles, tile shingles offer a distinctive appearance and are highly durable. Due to their excellent heat resistance, they are common in areas with hot climates. Tile roofs can last up to 100 years with proper care, but their weight often requires additional reinforcement.

Flat Roofing Systems

Flat roofing systems are commonly used on commercial buildings and some modern homes. These systems typically use materials like EPDM (rubber), TPO (thermoplastic), or PVC. Flat roofs require specialized installation techniques to ensure proper water drainage, making them distinct from pitched roof systems.

Metal Roofing

Metal roofing is known for its durability and energy efficiency. Common materials include aluminum, steel, and copper. Metal roofs are highly resistant to weather damage and offer a long lifespan of 50 years or more. They are available in different styles, including standing seam and metal shingles.

Related: Metal Roofing vs Shingles

Wood Shingles and Shakes

Wood shingles and shakes offer a natural, rustic appearance and are typically made from cedar or redwood. Shingles are machine-cut for a smooth, uniform look, while shakes are hand-split for a rougher, textured finish. While aesthetically appealing, wood roofs require regular maintenance to prevent rot and insect damage.

Roofing Tools

Roofing Knives

Roofing knives are critical for cutting materials like shingles, felt, and underlayment. Tools like the Knuckle Saver Roofing Knife have an extended handle to keep the user's knuckles safe during cutting, especially when working with thick or rough materials. These knives improve precision and reduce hand fatigue during extended use.

Magnetic Faced Hatchet

A magnetic-faced hatchet serves two purposes: nailing and prying. Its magnetic feature helps hold roofing nails in place, allowing roofers to install shingles faster and more efficiently. This tool is especially useful when working on steep roofs where maintaining a steady grip is challenging.

Caulking Guns

Caulking guns are indispensable for applying roofing sealants around chimneys, vents, and other penetrations on the roof surface. Properly sealing these areas prevents leaks and extends the roof's life by keeping water out of vulnerable joints.

Cutting Tools

Beyond roofing knives, specialized cutting tools such as shears or snips are used to trim metal flashing, gutters, and roofing panels. These tools ensure precise cuts, which are crucial for fitting materials tightly around edges and corners.

Measuring Tools

Accurate measurements are the foundation of any roofing project. Tools like tape measures and roofing squares ensure that materials are cut to the correct size and shingles are aligned evenly. Proper measurements reduce waste and ensure a professional finish.

Having the right tools ensures that roofing tasks are completed safely and with high-quality results.

Roofing Construction Steps

The roofing construction process begins by tearing off the old roof. This essential first step removes the existing shingles and underlayment to prepare the surface for new materials. Once the old roof is removed, the decking (usually plywood or OSB) is inspected for damage. Any weak or rotting sections are replaced to ensure the new roof has a solid foundation.

After inspection, the drip edge is installed along the roof's edges. This prevents water from seeping underneath the roofing materials and protects the fascia board from water damage.

Next, the underlayment is rolled out across the roof deck. Acting as a waterproof barrier, the underlayment protects the roof from leaks caused by wind-driven rain or ice dams. Felt paper or synthetic materials are then applied for additional protection.

Then, flashing is installed around areas like chimneys, vents, and skylights to prevent water from leaking through these vulnerable areas. Proper flashing installation is critical for preventing long-term water damage. In areas where the roof forms valleys, extra waterproofing is required, as these are prime spots for water accumulation.

Once waterproofing is complete, shingles are applied in overlapping rows, starting from the bottom of the roof and working upward. This ensures proper water drainage, as each layer protects the one below it.

Finally, ridge vents are installed along the roof's peak for proper ventilation. These vents help release warm air and moisture from the attic, extending the life of the roofing materials and improving energy efficiency.

Roofing FAQ

Do I need a permit for a roof installation?

Not always, but in certain cases, especially for major renovations or replacements, a permit may be required. Check with your local municipality or roofing contractor to confirm whether a permit is necessary for your project.

How long does it take to install a new roof?

Most residential roof installations take 1–3 days, depending on the roof’s size, complexity, weather, and the type of installed materials.

How much does a new roof typically cost in the Midwest?

In the Midwest, an average new roof costs between $15,000 and $25,000. However, roof size, materials used (e.g., asphalt shingles, metal), and labor costs can significantly influence the final price. On a per-square-foot basis, expect to pay around $4 to $12 for asphalt shingles, with higher-end materials costing more. Local factors, such as the region's weather conditions and labor rates, will also play a role in determining the total cost.

What is the lifespan of different roofing materials?

Asphalt shingles: 20–30 years
Metal roofing: 40–70 years
Tile roofing: 50+ years
Wood shingles and shakes: 25–40 years

How do I know if my roof needs replacing?

Signs include missing or cracked shingles, frequent leaks, mold or mildew growth, sagging, or if the roof is over 20 years old. A professional inspection is recommended to assess the roof's condition.

Find the Perfect Roofing Materials for Your Project

Choosing the right roofing materials ensures long-lasting durability, protection, and aesthetic appeal. Whether you're considering asphalt shingles, metal roofing, or other flat roofing systems, understanding the components and materials available will help you make the best decision for your project.

LS Building Products offers a wide selection of high-quality roofing materials to meet your design and functional needs. From durable asphalt shingles to eco-friendly metal roofing options, you’ll find everything you need for your next build or renovation.

Explore our full range of roofing materials and contact us today to get the right products for your project.