A Glossary of Roofing Terminology & Definitions

If you encounter a problem with your Pittsburgh roofing, it can help to acquaint yourself with all the proper terminology and definitions. That way, when you get in touch with a roofing contractor in Pittsburgh, PA, you can precisely and accurately explain the problem. But it can take time to get to grips with all the different terms. So to help you along your way, here’s a list of common roofing terminology and definitions.

Roofing Styles

There are three common types of Pittsburgh roofing that you should know about:

Gable Roof

Perhaps the most common type, a gable roof is a triangular-shaped system where two sloped parts join together at the top of the building.

Hip Roof

A hip roof resembles the shape of a triangular prism. It features a slope on each of its four sides, connected at the top to form a ridge. This type is common in areas that suffer from extreme weather like high winds or heavy snow.

Shed Roof

Unlike the gable or hip style, a shed roof consists of a singular slope, where the wall on one side of the slope is taller than on the other. These are most common in small buildings like sheds, huts or garages.

Flat Roof

This style is most common for commercial buildings and schools, although it is also becoming trendy for modern and contemporary-style homes. It has less of a pitch than the other styles discussed here, and it is mostly suitable for arid climates.

Roofing Elements

There are eight elements of Pittsburgh roofing that you should be familiar with: ]

Ridges

Ridges are the points at the top of the building at which two slopes meet. Ridges often need a particular type of shingles to cover them.

Valleys

Valleys are the areas of the building at which water gathers following heavy rainfall. They are often prone to leaking.

Decking

Decking is the foundation structure that surrounds your attic, on top of which the underlayment and shingles sit.

Eaves

Typically used to improve ventilation in a building, eaves are those parts of the roof that hang over the edge of the property.

Shingles

Shingles are the visible surface layer of your roof, designed to protect the building from water and UV rays from the sun. Typical materials for shingles include 3-tab asphalt, architectural, and fiberglass.

Flashing

Flashing is installed in the most vulnerable areas of the exterior of the building to add extra protection.

Ventilation

Ventilation is the process by which air circulates in your attic. It is essential to help ensure the longevity of the building.

Underlayment

Underlayment sits between the decking and the shingles to add a layer of protection and insulation.

Contact Pittsburgh Roofing Contractors Today

Once you’ve got a handle on the key roofing terminology and definitions, you’ll know what to talk about when you get in touch with a Pittsburgh roofing company to explain your problem. Contact your Pittsburgh roofing contractor today to arrange for roof repair Pittsburgh or replacement work or to schedule a consultation. A roofer in Pittsburgh will have the experience and expertise necessary to pinpoint the problem and work out a solution that’s both effective and affordable.