Roofing Glossary
Understanding roofing terminology helps you make informed decisions. Browse our comprehensive guide to common roofing terms.
A
Asphalt Shingle
The most common roofing material in North America, made from a fiberglass or organic mat coated with asphalt and topped with ceramic granules. Available in 3-tab or architectural styles.
B
Bitumen
A waterproof, tar-like substance used in built-up roofing and modified bitumen systems. Provides excellent waterproofing for flat or low-slope roofs.
C
Clay Tile
Traditional roofing material made from fired clay, popular in Florida for its durability and hurricane resistance. Available in barrel, flat, and interlocking profiles.
D
Deck (Roof Deck)
The structural surface (usually plywood or OSB) to which roofing materials are attached. Must be solid and properly installed to support the roof system.
Drip Edge
Metal flashing installed along roof edges to direct water away from the fascia and into gutters. Required by Florida building code.
E
EPDM
Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer — a synthetic rubber membrane commonly used on flat or low-slope commercial roofs. Durable and weather-resistant.
F
Fascia
The vertical board that runs along the roof edge, typically behind the gutter. Protects the roof deck and provides a finished appearance.
Flashing
Metal or waterproof material installed at roof penetrations, valleys, and edges to prevent water intrusion. Critical for leak prevention.
G
GAF Master Elite
The highest certification level awarded by GAF, the largest roofing manufacturer in North America. Only the top 2% of contractors qualify.
Granule
Ceramic-coated mineral particles embedded in asphalt shingles. Provides UV protection, color, and fire resistance.
H
Hip
The external angle formed where two sloping roof planes meet. Covered with specially designed hip shingles or tiles.
I
Ice and Water Shield
Self-adhering waterproof membrane installed in vulnerable areas like valleys, eaves, and around penetrations. Provides extra protection against water infiltration.
Insulation
Material installed beneath the roof deck to reduce heat transfer, improve energy efficiency, and meet building code requirements.
J
Joist
Horizontal structural members that support the roof deck. Typically made of wood or engineered lumber.
L
Lap
The area where one shingle or roofing material overlaps another. Proper lapping is essential for waterproofing.
M
Membrane
A flexible sheet material used for waterproofing flat or low-slope roofs. Common types include TPO, EPDM, and modified bitumen.
Miami-Dade NOA
Notice of Acceptance — certification from Miami-Dade County confirming a product meets strict hurricane building codes. Required for roofing products in South Florida.
Modified Bitumen
Asphalt-based roofing membrane enhanced with modifiers for improved performance. Commonly used on flat commercial roofs.
N
Nail Gun
Pneumatic tool used to quickly and consistently install roofing nails. Ensures proper fastening and speeds installation.
O
Oriented Strand Board (OSB)
Engineered wood product commonly used for roof decking. Made from compressed wood strands arranged in layers.
P
Penetration
Any object that passes through the roof surface, such as vents, pipes, or chimneys. Requires proper flashing to prevent leaks.
Pitch (Roof Pitch)
The slope or angle of a roof, expressed as a ratio of vertical rise to horizontal run (e.g., 4:12 means 4 inches of rise per 12 inches of run).
R
Ridge
The highest point of a roof where two sloping planes meet. Covered with ridge shingles or ridge tiles.
Ridge Vent
Continuous ventilation installed along the ridge of a roof. Works with soffit vents to create proper attic airflow.
S
Soffit
The underside of the roof overhang. Often vented to allow air circulation into the attic.
Square
Roofing measurement unit equal to 100 square feet. Used to calculate material quantities and pricing.
Starter Strip
The first course of shingles installed along the eaves. Provides a straight edge and prevents wind uplift.
T
Tar
Colloquial term for roofing cement or mastic. Used for sealing and waterproofing, though modern products have largely replaced traditional coal tar.
TPO
Thermoplastic Polyolefin — a single-ply roofing membrane popular for flat commercial roofs. White surface reflects heat for energy efficiency.
Truss
Prefabricated triangular framework used to support the roof structure. Engineered for strength and designed to specific building codes.
U
Underlayment
Water-resistant or waterproof material installed directly on the roof deck before shingles or tiles. Provides secondary protection against leaks.
V
Valley
The internal angle where two sloping roof planes meet. One of the most vulnerable areas for leaks and requires proper flashing.
Vapor Barrier
Material that prevents moisture vapor from passing into the building structure. Important for preventing condensation and mold.
Ventilation
System of intake and exhaust vents that allow air circulation through the attic space. Critical for preventing heat buildup and moisture damage.
W
Wind Uplift
Upward force exerted on a roof by high winds. Florida building codes require enhanced fastening to resist hurricane-force wind uplift.