While a professional roofing contractor can accurately spot the damage on your roof, it’s still important to familiarize yourself with all the different components of your roofing system. This basic roofing knowledge can help you better communicate with your roofer. Today’s post from Empire Roofing and More stresses the importance of understanding the features and functions of roofing components.
Here are the basic parts of a roof you should know.
Cornice
In architectural terms, a cornice pertains to the exterior trim connecting the roof and the wall. The cornice of your roof includes the soffit and the fascia. A cornice is usually made of wood or metal.
Drip Edge
The metal flashing at the edge of the roof that keeps water from dripping back into the roof and the house, especially the wooden portions highly susceptible to water damage.
Flashing
The flashing is a non-corrosive sheet metal used to prevent leakage at different junctions on the roof.
Roof Pitch
Also known as the slope, your roof’s pitch is determined by the number of inches of vertical rise for every 12-inch horizontal run of your roof. Determining the roof pitch can help you assess what material can be used and how to best take care of your roof. You can measure the slope by yourself, or you may enlist the help of a roofing services company.
Rafter
Acting as base support for your roof deck and roof coverings, a rafter can be found extending from the ridge of the roof to the wall plate of the external wall. Rafters are typically laid side by side and are usually made of either timber or steel.
Sheathing
The roof deck is made of multiple plywood sheets nailed to the rafters. Sheathing is the platform or base on where the underlayment and external roofing materials are secured.
Valley
This refers to the area where two slopes of different roofing areas meet. Since valleys are vulnerable to water infiltration, they require flashing to ensure a leak-free roof.
These are just a few of the roofing features and terms you should familiarize yourself with. Knowing how these parts work together to make sure your roof functions properly can help you assess damage when it arises.
Turn to Empire Roofing and More for all your roofing needs. We also offer siding installation services. You may reach us at (412) 618-4729. We serve Township and Pittsburgh, PA.
