Roofing and Construction Terminology

Abutment

A junction where a pitched roof surface adjoins a wall, a dormer or other vertical feature. Abutments are commonly found in roof and building extensions.

Absorption

The ability of a material to accept within its body quantities of gases or liquid, such as moisture.

A Frame Roof

A roof with steeply angled sides that form an "A" shape, typically used in simple structures like cottages and cabins.

Aggregate

Rocks or granules used on the surface of roofs to protect them from UV damage and provide a finished appearance.

All Weather Elastomeric Mastic

A versatile, asphalt-based roofing mastic designed for installation in damp or wet conditions.

Alligatoring

Surface cracking resembles an alligator's hide, often due to the aging of asphalt.

Aluminum

A silver-white metallic chemical element with atomic number 13 that has good electrical and thermal conductivity, high reflectivity, and resistance to oxidation

Aluminum Roof Sheet

Aluminum Roof sheet is easy to install and maintain and their anti-corrosive properties give a long lifespan, also give a shiny luster finish.

Aluminum Siding

Horizontal planks of aluminum with a baked-on enamel finish that looks like wooden lap siding.

American Hardboard Association

The national trade organization for the manufacturers of hardboard products.

American National Institute Standards

ANSI is a private, nonprofit organization that oversees the voluntary standardization and assessment of US products, to enable the US to better compete globally and enhance the quality of life in the US by conformity to product standards.

American Society for testing Materials

A voluntary organization concerned with the development of standards, testing procedures, and specifications. Many city building codes use ASTM standards.

Anchor Bolts

Bolts driven into concrete to secure structural members in place.

Angled Fasteners

Roofing nails and staples driven into decks at angles not parallel to the deck.

Apex Roof

The apex is the highest point of a roof, where two sloping sides meet to form the ridge.

Application Rate

Measurement indicating how much material is applied per unit area, e.g., 1 gallon per 100 square feet.

Apron Flashing

A large often single piece of flashing commonly found at the bottom of a dormer or addition. Protects where a vertical wall meets a sloped roof. Commonly used for chimney flashing along the base of the front side of the chimney.
Apron flashing commonly referred to as; chimney flashing, skirt flashing, base flashing, and continuous flashing. 

Apse

A semicircular or polygonal building projection, as of a church.

Arch

A curved structure that supports its weight and the load above it.

Area Divider

A structure used to alleviate stress in roofing systems on decks without expansion joints.

Area Way

A recessed area below grade that allows light and ventilation into a basement window.

Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association

ARMA is a trade association representing the majority of North America’s asphalt roofing manufacturing companies, plus their raw material suppliers. The association includes almost 95 percent of the nation’s manufacturers of bituminous-based roofing products. Information ARMA gathers on modern asphalt roofing materials and practices is provided to building and code officials, as well as to regulatory agencies and allied trade groups. Committed to advancing the asphalt roofing industry,

Asphalt Shingles

A type of roofing material made from asphalt-saturated organic felt or fiberglass mat coated with mineral granules, commonly used for residential roofs due to affordability and ease of installation.

Asbestos

A natural, heat-resistant mineral fiber once used in various building materials.

Asbestos Cement Sheet

This type of roof manufacturing process used asbestos fiber as a reinforcement material with cement. Asbestos fiber gives rigidity and stiffness to the roof sheet body to maintain its size and shape without breakage.

Asphalt

A black, sticky material used in making roofing materials due to its waterproof properties.

Asphalt Concrete Primer

Asphalt based primer used to prepare concrete and metal for asphalt sealant.

Asphaltic

Pertaining to or treated with asphalt.

Asphalt Felt

Felt either saturated or coated with asphalt.

Assessment

Assessments are performed with an inital work request, to assess the overall status of the roof. To assess current leaks and damages, if repairs can be performed, if a replacement is necessary. Generally assessments are performed by a professional or certified roofing Contractor. Assessments usually require the property owner, general contractor, or project manager present at the assessment meeting to review project details and assessment findings. Generally the initial assessment is free within a certain mile radious of the hiring contractors location of business.

Atrium

An open court with a building.

Attic

The attic is the space created between the rafters and the insulation above the ceilings. Many homeowners utilize their attic space for storage, or they might design a neat living space that is above the main house. This area must be properly insulated and ventilated to avoid damage from moisture and to realease trapped heat. 

Awning Window

An out-swinging window hinged at the top of the sash.

Backfill

Earth used to fill in areas around a foundation.

Back Nailing

Securing roofing felts with fasteners in addition to using adhesive, ensuring the fasteners aren't exposed.

Balcony Roof

A roof or covering over a balcony, often an extension of the main roof.

Balusters

Small vertical supports for the railing of stairs.

Balustrade

A series of balusters supporting the railing of stairs or a balcony.

Bamboo Roof Sheets

Bamboo roofing sheets are giving a traditional and historical look to your house. The Corrugated Bamboo roofing sheets are coated with resins and this coating layer also helps to free them from external environments.

Bannister

A handrail with supporting posts on a stairway.

Bare

Bare roofing is an option although, depending on the material used, may not be highly recommended. Unpainted metal options such as zinc and copper can result in a unique aesthetic over time. However, it’s important to consider the roof’s susceptibility to weathering and the potential negative impact on longevity of the material.

Barge board

The finished board that covers the projecting portion of a gable roof.

Base Flashing

the portion of the flashing which is attached to, or rest on the roof deck.

Base Ply

The primary or bottom ply of roofing felt in a system.

Base Sheet

The initial ply, either coated or saturated, in a multi-layer roof membrane system.

Backboard

A flat material used on the face of the house, between the studs and the siding, to provide a nailable surface for the siding.

Batt

A type of insulation designed for installation between framing members.

Batten

A strip of wood or metal placed on a roof's surface to elevate and secure roofing material.

Beam

A structural element that primarily resists loads applied laterally to the beam’s axis, used to support weight in floors, ceilings, and roofs.

Bearing Plate

A metal plate that provides support for a structural member.

Bearing Wall

A wall designed to support a vertical load. A bearing wall will contain properly sized headers over door or window openings.

Bench Mark

A mark on some permanent object fixed to the ground used as a standard measuring point.

Beveld Clapboards

Clapboards that are tapered rather than cut perfectly rectangular.

Birdsmouth

A notch cut on the underside of a rafter's tail so the low end of a rafter can sit flat on a wall.

Bitumen

A viscous material derived from petroleum or coal, often used in roofing as a waterproofing agent.

Bituminous

Related to or containing bitumen.

Bituminous Emulsion

Water or a water-soluble solution containing tiny droplets of bitumen.

Bituminous Grout

Bitumen mixed with fine sand that becomes fluid when heated.

Blackberry

A minor blister in the flood coat of a gravel-topped roof.

Blend

Mixtures of various colored materials on the surface of roof materials.

Blind Nailing

Nails driven in such a way that the heads are concealed by succeeding layers of roofing materials.

Blistering / Curling

Bubbles that may appear on the surface of asphalt roofing. Blistering happens when moisture or air gets trapped under shingles, causing bubbles to form. Curling is when the edges of shingles start to lift upward—usually from age, heat exposure, or poor installation. When both are present, it’s a sign your roof may be nearing the end of its lifespan and could fail if not addressed soon.

Blocking

Support structures, typically made of wood, integrated into roofing systems to provide secure attachment points.

Board and Batten

A style in which a narrow strip of siding appears to cover the seam between two wider boards. Board and batten siding is installed vertically.

Bond

The forces of adhesion holding roofing components together.

Brick Veneer

A wall construction method in which a layer of bricks is attached to the wood framework of a house using brick ties.

Bridging

A method of reroofing where the new shingles follow the contour of the old roofing. Also called “butting up”. It is almost always desirable to tear off old roofing.

Brooming

Pressing roofing material into adhesive using a broom to ensure good contact and bonding.

Buckling

When a wrinkle or ripple affects shingles or their underlayment.

Built up Roof Membrane (BUR)

A flat or low sloped roof made up of layers of asphalt and ply sheets. (AKA BUR)

Buttress

A supporting structure built against a wall

Cantilever

A projecting structure supported at only one end, used in balconies, bridges, and roofs to provide overhanging support without additional columns.

Cant Strip

A sloping or beveled strip easing the transition between horizontal and vertical surfaces on a roof. A 45-degree beveled wood, fiberboard, or metal strips at the junction of the roof and a vertical surface used to break a right angle. Primarily used in low sloped roofing.

Cap Flashing

Metallic covering atop walls or projections, protecting them from moisture penetration.

Capillarity / Capillary Action

The action causing water to be absorbed into a material, which can sometimes lead to de-lamination.

Capping

Protective covering or finishing piece on the ridge or hip of a roof.

Cap Sheet

A top layer in a roofing system, typically granule-surfaced.

Caulk / Caulking

Flexible material used to seal gaps or cracks in roofing structures.

Cement

Cement – a substance, when cured, binds to surfaces together.

Center Butt

The bend in the center of a piece of siding that makes the siding appear to be two pieces instead of one.

Change Order

A change order is work that is added to or deleted from the original scope of work of a contract. Depending on the magnitude of the change, it may or may not alter the original contract amount and/or completion date. A change order may force a new project to handle significant changes to the current project.

Channel

The area of the accessory trim or corner post where siding or soffit panels are inserted. Channels also refer to the trim itself, and are named for the letters of the alphabet they resemble, for example J-channel and F-channel are available.

Checking

A crack or split along the grain in wood plank siding as a result of cupping.

Chimney Flashing

Waterproofing material installed around the base of a chimney to prevent leaks.

Chloroprene Rubber

Chloroprene rubber, commonly known as neoprene, is a synthetic rubber made from the polymerization of chloroprene. It was the first synthetic rubber developed as a substitute for natural rubber.

Cistern

A container for storing water, such as that collected from a rainwater harvesting system.

Clapboard

Overlapping, horizontal wood plank siding made from either rectangular planks or taped planks.

Class "A"

The highest fire resistance rating for roofing as per ASTM E-108. Shingle with this rating should withstand severe exposure to fire from sources originating outside the building. Other classed are B and C.

Clay tiles

Durable, fire-resistant roofing material made from molded clay, commonly used in Mediterranean and Spanish-style architecture.

Clerestory

A wall with windows that rises above an abutting roofed section of a building or room.

Clerestory Roof

A clerestory roof is a vertical wall with a row of windows above the roof line. These roofs can maximize natural light, ventilation, and aesthetics, but also require maintenance and have some drawbacks.

Closed cut Valley

A shingle valley installation method where one roof plane’s shingles completely cover the other’s. The top layer is cut to match the valley lines.

Coal Tar

Dark, viscous residue obtained from the distillation of coal.

Coal Tar Pitch

A variant of coal tar utilized for waterproofing in low slope roofing.

Coal Tar Felts

Roofing felts saturated with refined coal tar.

Coated Sheet Felts

Roofing felt with an additional coating of asphalt for enhanced protection.

Coating

A layer (often liquid) applied to roofing to protect it from the elements.

Cold Press Roofing

Roofing method using asphalt or other binders without the need for heating.

Collar

Pre-formed flange placed over a vent pipe. (AKA vent sleeve) There are two types, lead jacks and rubber boots.

Collar Beam

A conventional roof forms a triangle, with the mirrored rafters forming the sides and the ceiling joists closing the triangle at the base. A collar beam runs horizontally through the structure to connect and support the rafters, existing parallel to the ceiling joists. Collar beams usually connect a pair of rafter's midway up the height of the apex. These cross beams carefully and intentionally strengthen the overall structure by applying lateral support.

Composition Board

Blanks or sheets of weather resistant compressed wood fibers used as siding.

Concrete Anchor

A lag screw or bolt assembly designed to wedge against a pre-drilled hole in the concrete to attach wood or other material to the concrete slab or structure.

Condensation

The process where water vapor in the air turns into liquid upon contacting a cold surface.

Cool Roof

Any roof that is designed to reflect more sunlight and absorb less heat than a standard roof is called a “cool roof.” Cool roofs are optimized with coatings, light reflective colors, or high solar reflectance to be energy efficient.

Copper

A metallic chemical element with atomic number 29 that is easily formed into sheets and wires and is one of the best known conductors of heat and electricity. Copper used in buildings, usually for roofing, oxidizes to form a green patina of compounds called verdigris.

Copping

Protective capping on external walls, angled to deflect water.

Cornice

Exterior trim of a structure where the roof and walls meet.

Corrugated Siding

Siding made out of aluminum or plastic derivatives having ridges and valleys and is attached to the sides of buildings.

Corrugated Steel

Corrugated metal is made from sheets of metal that are rolled into a wavy pattern, which enhances its strength and durability. The most common materials used for corrugated metal include galvanized steel and Galvalume, which are known for their corrosion resistance and longevity. The corrugation process increases the material's tensile strength, making it suitable for various applications.

Counter Flashing

Counter flashing is installed on a vertical surface to prevent the flow of water from getting behind the base flashing. The counter flashing overlaps the base flashing. It is the final layer of a three-part waterproof barrier installed between a roof and a vertical wall or chimney.
Other terms for counter flashing include; cap flashing, cover flashing, and "Z" flashing.  
The installation method for counter flashing is called Reglet flashing.

Course

A single layer of materials in a multi-layer roofing system. A horizontal unit of roofing running the length of the roof.

Coverage

The area uniformly covered by a given amount of roofing material.

Crack

A break or split in roofing materials, often due to stress or movement.

Crimp

If the fastening portion of a piece of siding has been trimmed away due to size, it is necessary to form crimps on the remaining piece of panel in order for the panel to fit tightly into the slot in the trim. Crimps are formed using a special tool called a snaplock punch.

Cricket

A raised section of the roof to divert water around chimneys or other structures.
A peaked water diverter installed behind chimneys and other large roof projections. Effectively diverts water around projections.

Crows Feet

A carpentry term used to describe a style of mark on a piece of wood or other material, defined by two or more lines extending out and originating from one point (the mark).

Cupola

A cupola is a structure rising above the main roof. It is usually ornamental but may be used for ventilation.

Cupping

When shingles are improperly installed over an existing roof or are over-exposed, they may form a curl or cup. May also be due to a manufacturing defect.

Cut & Drop

Cut and drop refers to TKO's cut and drop metal fabrication services. Service order to have metal cut, fabricated, bent, soldered, straight cut, run-off, braised, radius cut, to specific sizes, shapes, demensions for local drop off or pick up.

Cutback

Bitumen thinned with solvents, used in cold-process roofing and as primers or coatings.

Dead Level

A roof or section of roof without any pitch.

Dead Load

The permanent static weight of a structure, including its own components like roofing materials, walls, and fixed equipment, which must be supported safely.

Deck

The material installed over the framing of a structure on which shingles are installed. The primary materials are Oriented Strand Board (OSB) and cdx Plywood.

Double Beaded Half round gutter

A double beaded half round gutter is a type of gutter characterized by a curled bead on both the front and back sides. This design adds a traditional and elegant appearance to homes, making it a popular choice for both historic restoration and new construction. The double bead profile is particularly useful when there is no fascia to attach a gutter hanger to, as it can be installed using a rod that feeds through the middle of the gutter hanger and attached to the roof.

Double Coverage

A method of applying roof shingles so that two complete layers of material are provided.

Dormer

A dormer is a section of roof, usually a window, which juts out and forms its own little, small section of mini roof.  A window unit projecting through the sloping plane of the roof.

Drip Edge

Usually metal strip used on eves and rakes to allow for water run off without damaging underlying materials

Drip Course

The first course of shingles that slightly overhangs the edge.

Eaves

The edges of the roof that overhang the walls of a building, designed to direct water away from the walls and foundation.

Edge Venting

Regularly spaced and protected openings along the roof edge to alleviate moisture vapor pressure.

Elastomer

A material capable of returning to its original form after being stressed.

Elastomeric

Resembling rubber in flexibility; can stretch when pulled and revert to its original shape upon release.

Engineered Lumber

Special beams, joists, and rafters created by laminating wood, used for long spans between vertical supports.

EPDM Rubber

Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer, a type of synthetic rubber roofing material.

Expansion Joint

A gap in roof decks or walls to facilitate movement.

Exposure

1. The portion of roofing material left exposed to the elements after installation.
2. The duration during which roofing materials are exposed to environmental conditions.

Face

The part of the vinyl panel that is visible once the vinyl is installed.

Face Nailing

The nailing of siding through the visible portion of the panel instead of the nailing strip. This is not recommended.

Facets

Roof facets refer to the different sections or the sides of a roof. 
The more complex your roof is, the more facets it will have. 

Factory Mutual

An entity that rates materials based on their fire and wind properties for insurance purposes.

Factory Square

Equivalent to 108 square feet of roofing material.

Fascia

1. A decorative board extending down from the roof edge either at the eave or at the rake.
2. A board attached to the ends of the rafters between the roofing material and the soffit overhang. Fascia cap is the covering around that board.

Fastener

A fastener (US English) or fastening is a hardware device that mechanically joins or affixes two or more objects together. In general, fasteners are used to create non-permanent joints; that is, joints that can be removed or dismantled without damaging the joining components. Steel fasteners are usually made of stainless steel, carbon steel, or alloy steel.

Fastener Attachments

When attaching your roof coverings to the underlayment and deck, you’ll need fastener attachments to secure the connections. For asphalt shingles, this would likely be roofing nails. For tile, you might be better off with metal or copper fasteners. Bonding, glue, tar or adhesive-type paper may also be sufficient for your needs.

F-Channel

A manufacturing component of vinyl or aluminum siding systems which have a channel that the planks fit into, used around windows and doors to make a weathertight seal.

Felt

A flexible sheet created by binding fibers using mechanical action, heat, and moisture.

Felt Layer

Felt layer is a protective underlayment that helps prevent moisture from entering your home. It is typically made from natural materials like wood cellulose soaked in asphalt, providing water-shedding properties.

Felt Layers (3)

A 3-layer felt roofing system is a popular choice for flat roofs due to its durability and waterproofing capabilities. Here’s a brief overview of the process and benefits:
Layers: The system consists of three layers: a base layer, a reinforcing layer, and a cap sheet. The base layer is applied directly to the roof deck, followed by the reinforcing layer, and the cap sheet is the top layer

Fiberboard Siding

This type of siding is made of composite wood material, and is sold under several brand names, including Masonite. Because it is not made of solid wood, it must be installed and maintained properly.

Fiber Cement Board Siding

Fiber cement siding is a construction material made from a mixture of cement, sand, and cellulose fibers. This combination provides a resilient and low-maintenance alternative to traditional siding materials like wood and vinyl. The manufacturing process involves blending these raw materials, forming them into sheets or planks, and curing them under high pressure to enhance durability.

Fiberglass Felt

Also known as "Glass Felt" - fibers of glass bonded into a sheet, ideal for bituminous roofing material manufacturing.

Fiber-Reinforced Plastic Sheet

Fiber-reinforced plastic is a composite material means made up of fiber and thermosetting resins, it is also known as the FRP Sheet for roofing. Here fiber acts as a reinforcement material so that it maintains the molded shape and gives better structural rigidity.

Fine Mineral Surfacing

Inorganic material on roofing surfaces, primarily passing a No. 35 sieve test.

Finishing Trim

Trim pieces used to provide an aesthetic finished edge to a siding panel or soffit panel.

Fire Resistance

Fire resistance is rated by a material’s ability to withstand exposure to fire originating from sources outside the building.
1. Class “A” Fire Resistance: The highest fire test classification for roofing as per ASTM E108 or UL790. Rated to withstand severe exposure to fire originating from sources outside the building.
2. Class “B” Fire Resistance: Rated as being capable of withstanding moderate exposure to fire originating from sources outside the building.
3. Class “C” Fire Resistance: Indicates an ability to withstand light exposure to fire originating from sources outside the building.

Fishmouth

A semi-circular or conical opening caused by edge warping in roofing materials.

Flange

Metal pan extending up or down a roof slope around flashing pieces. Usually at chimneys and plumbing vents.

Flashing

Materials used to prevent water intrusion at any junction or penetration of a roof system.

Flashing Cement

Flashing cement is a scientifically formulated mixture of selected asphalts, mineral fibers, and refined solvents. It is designed to be applied with a trowel, creating a heavy consistency that allows for excellent adhesion and high resistance to water and weathering. Once dried, it forms a tough, flexible, and waterproof coating that can withstand a wide range of temperatures and environmental conditions.

Flat Roof

A roof with a near-level surface, typically with a slight pitch for drainage. Usually <3/12 roof pitch.

Fluid Applied

Liquid elastomeric material applied and left to dry, forming a continuous, typically unreinforced, membrane.

Footing

An enlargement at the lower end of a wall, pier, or column to distribute the load into the ground.

Framing

The structural elements of a house or building - studs, beams, headers, rafters, purlins, and trusses.

Freeze Board

Frieze board is a type of trim that comes in strips and is made of various materials, such as wood, fiber cement, and aluminum. It serves as a finishing touch for the exterior of your home. Its versatility allows for numerous applications, such as decorative trim, accent pieces, or window or door trim.
Homeowners typically install frieze board where the soffit meets the siding, acting as a bridge between these two components.

Furring/Furring Strip

A wooden or steel framing material, usually 1″ x 3″, used to provide an even nailing base. To “fur” a surface means to apply these strips.

Gable

Gables are the triangular sections you’ll see at the ends of many pitched roofs. They add a distinctive look and help with attic ventilation. A well-designed gable can give your home extra curb appeal while helping your roof perform better year-round.

Gable Roof

A roof with two sloping sides that come together at a ridge, creating a gable at each end.

Gallon

A gallon is equal to 8 pints, 4 quarts, or 16 cups. Its abbreviation is gal. The term gallon is derived from galon, which means "pail," and was taken from either old French or Latin.

Gavalume Metal

Galvalume metal roofs are a popular choice for both residential and commercial buildings due to their durability and cost-effectiveness. They offer excellent corrosion resistance, energy efficiency, and minimal maintenance requirements. Galvalume roofs can last over 40 years and are available in various finishes and colors to suit different design preferences.

Galvinized Metal

Galvanization is the process of applying a protective zinc coating to steel or iron. This coating serves as a barrier against corrosive elements, significantly extending the life of the metal. The most common method of galvanization is hot-dip galvanizing, where the metal is submerged in molten zinc, creating a robust and durable coating.

Galvanized Iron Sheets

Galvanized iron sheets are available in different gauge thicknesses with different sizes. For the treatment of GI, the sheet surface used electro-galvanizing and hot-dip galvanizing. This type of GI Sheet for anti-corrosive treatment used zinc with an aluminum coating or Zinc coating.

Gambrel Roof

A type of gabled roof that features two sloping planes of different pitch on each side of the ridge.

Granuale Coated/Stone Coated

Granular (or stone) coated panels are coated with an acrylic polymer adhesive then the granule coating is applied bonding the stone chips to the specially primed steel panel. A clear coat sealer is applied over the top for extra protection. Granular coated panels are available in multiple color options and roofing profiles including tile, shake, or shingle panels.

Granule Loss

Asphalt shingles are coated in granules that protect them from UV damage and wear. Over time, those granules wear off—especially in the San Antonio sun—which shortens the life of the roof and increases the risk of leaks. If you’re seeing granules in your gutters, it may be time for an inspection.

Granules

Crushed rock that is coated with a ceramic coating and fired, used as top surface on shingles.

Gravel Roof

Naturally eroded coarse aggregate, larger than sand.

Gravel Stop

A flange, usually metal, at the roof edge to prevent loose aggregate from falling off.

Green Building

The design and construction of buildings that minimize environmental impact while helping to keep occupants healthy.

Green Roof

A green roof is often referred to as a living roof because the roof of the building is partially or completely covered with vegetation and a growing medium. They may include several special layers such as a waterproofing membrane, a root barrier, filter cloth, drainage and irrigation systems.
Green roofs are also considered “Cool Roofs” because they significantly lower utility bills and the ambient temperature of the roof.

GRP

Also know as Fibre Glass is a type of material used typically in flat roofing.

Gutter

A channel at the edge of the roof to collect and divert rainwater.

Half Round Gutter

Half round gutters are a type of gutter system characterized by their semi-circular shape, resembling a tube cut in half. This design allows for efficient water flow and reduces the likelihood of blockages, making them ideal for various architectural styles, especially historic homes. They are typically made from durable materials such as aluminum, copper, and galvanized steel, which contribute to their durability and aesthetic appeal. The smooth, curved shape also facilitates easy maintenance and cleaning, as it minimizes debris accumulation compared to more angular designs.

Header

A type of beam used above a door or window.

Head Flashing

A piece of trim used to deflect water away from the top of vertical siding, to prevent water from getting in behind the siding. In some instances a head flashing may be used over windows and doors to deflect water run-off.

Headlap

The distance (measured perpendicular from the eave) from the top edge of a shingle or felt to the nearest exposed layer.

High Nailing

When roofing materials are nailed or fastened above the manufacturer’s specified nail location.

High Temperature Underlayment

High-temperature roof underlayment is a specialized roofing product designed to withstand extreme temperatures, typically up to 260°F (127°C). It is particularly beneficial for metal roofs, which can reach high temperatures and require additional protection. These underlayments are often self-adhered and can be left exposed for extended periods, making them suitable for various roofing systems, including metal, slate, tile, and conventional asphalt shingles. They also feature UV protection and are resistant to cracking, drying out, or rotting, ensuring long-lasting protection.

Hip

The external angle formed by the intersection of two sloping roof planes.

Hip Rafter

The diagonal rafter that extends from the plate to the ridge to form the hip of a hip roof.

Hip Roof

A roof with slopes on all four sides, which meet at the corners to form hips.

Hot Sheet

Felt applied using hot bitumen.

Ice & Water Shield

Ice and water shield is a waterproof membrane used to protect your roof from ice and water damage.
The 3 types of ice and water shield are granular/sand surface, smooth, and high heat. It needs to be installed on/around certain areas of your roof, like roof valleys, around penetrations, and on low slope roofs.

Inches

A unit of linear measure equal to one twelfth of a foot (2.54 cm).

Inclusive

Including all the services or items normally expected or required.

Inspection

An inspection is, most generally, an organized examination or formal evaluation exercise. In engineering activities inspection involves the measurements, tests, and gauges applied to certain characteristics in regard to an object or activity. The results are usually compared to specified requirements and standards for determining whether the item or activity is in line with these targets, often with a Standard Inspection Procedure in place to ensure consistent checking. Inspections are usually non-destructive.

Isoprene Rubber

The meaning of ISOPRENE is a flammable liquid unsaturated hydrocarbon C5H8 used especially in synthetic rubber.

J-Channel

A manufacturing component of vinyl or aluminum siding systems, which have a curved channel that the planks fit into; used around windows and doors to make a weathertight seal.

Jack Rafter

A short rafter usually used on hip roofs.

Joist

One of a series of parallel framing members used to support floors and ceilings.

Lap

Lap – the overlap of surface of one roofing material to another.