Roofing & Gutter Glossary

Explore our comprehensive guide to product terms and definitions.

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3-Tab Shingle

A type of asphalt shingle with three uniform cutouts or tabs along the lower edge of each strip, creating a flat, repetitive pattern across the roof. These shingles are typically more cost-effective and lighter than architectural (dimensional) shingles but offer a less textured appearance. They are commonly used in residential roofing due to their affordability and decent lifespan.

A

Algae Resistance

A feature added to many shingles where manufacturers incorporate copper or zinc granules into the surface to slow the growth of algae. This helps prevent unsightly dark streaks on roofs, particularly in humid climates where moisture promotes algae growth.

Apron Flashing

A flat piece of metal flashing installed at the lower edge of a roof penetration, such as where a dormer or chimney meets the roof’s slope. It protects against water infiltration by directing water away from vertical surfaces onto the roofing material, ensuring a secure and watertight connection.

Architectural Shingle

Also known as a Dimensional Shingle, this type of asphalt shingle features a multi-layered construction that creates a thicker, textured, and more visually appealing roof. Architectural shingles provide improved wind resistance, a longer lifespan, and enhanced curb appeal compared to the more basic 3-tab shingles.

Architectural Shingle

Asphalt Shingle

A widely used roofing material composed of a base (either fiberglass or organic felt) coated with asphalt and finished with ceramic or mineral granules. Asphalt shingles are popular for their cost-effectiveness, ease of installation, and a variety of available styles ranging from basic 3-tab to more robust architectural designs.

Attic

The space located directly beneath the pitched roof of a house, often used for storage or as additional living space if finished. Proper insulation and ventilation in the attic are crucial for regulating indoor temperatures and preventing issues such as moisture buildup and ice dams.

B

Ballast

Material—often stone aggregate, gravel, or concrete pavers—placed on top of certain flat or low-slope roofing systems (like single-ply membranes) to hold them in place. Ballasted roofs rely on the weight of the ballast for wind resistance and protection from UV rays, rather than adhesives or fasteners.

Barrel Roof

A roof shape featuring a continuous, curved form that resembles the arch of a barrel. Barrel roofs create a distinctive architectural style, though their unique curvature can make them more challenging to construct and waterproof compared to traditional flat or pitched roofs.

Battens

Long, narrow strips of wood or metal installed horizontally over roof rafters or decking to secure and support roofing materials such as tiles, shingles, or metal panels. Battens help ensure a level installation surface, promote proper alignment, and enhance the overall durability of the roof system, especially in high-wind areas.

Bitumen

A tar-like substance derived from petroleum or coal, used primarily as a waterproofing agent in roofing systems. Bitumen forms the basis for many roofing products, including asphalt shingles, built-up roofs, and modified bitumen membranes, contributing both durability and flexibility to these applications.

Built-Up Roof (BUR)

A traditional roofing system designed for low-slope roofs, consisting of multiple layers of roofing felt or fabric that are saturated with hot asphalt or coal tar. The system is typically finished with a layer of gravel or a mineral cap sheet, which protects the underlying layers from ultraviolet (UV) damage and physical wear, resulting in a robust and long-lasting roof.

Bundle (Shingles)

A packaged grouping of shingles, typically sold in quantities that cover a specific area—usually 100 square feet. The number of shingles per bundle can vary by manufacturer and product type, and bundles standardize installation by ensuring consistent coverage and material distribution across the roof.

C

Cap Flashing

A piece of flashing placed over the top of base or step flashing to prevent water from seeping behind the lower flashing layer. Often found around chimneys, walls, and other penetrations, cap flashing helps maintain a watertight roof by covering any exposed edges of underlying flashing.

Cedar Shake

A natural wood roofing product, usually split (rather than sawn) from cedar logs. Cedar shakes possess a rough, textured appearance and provide excellent insulation, though they may require more maintenance and treatment against fire compared to asphalt shingles.

Chimney Cap

A protective covering placed atop a chimney that shields the flue from rain, snow, debris, and animals. Chimney caps, often made of stainless steel, copper, or galvanized metal, help prevent water damage and can include a spark arrestor for added safety.

Chimney Flashing

Metal flashing installed where a chimney meets the roof surface, typically including step flashing along the sides and counter flashing to cover exposed edges. Proper chimney flashing is essential to prevent water from infiltrating the roof deck and interior spaces.

Class A Fire Rating

The highest rating for fire resistance in roofing materials, indicating that the product effectively resists flame spread. Roofing with a Class A fire rating is particularly valuable in areas prone to wildfires, enhancing overall building safety and potentially lowering insurance costs.

Closed-Cut Valley

A roof valley installation method where shingles from one roof plane extend across the valley while shingles on the adjoining plane are trimmed to create a neat, finished look. This method offers a seamless appearance compared to open valleys but may be more challenging to inspect for debris buildup.

Collar (Vent Collar)

A preformed flashing component designed to fit snugly around roof penetrations such as vents or pipes. The collar diverts water away from the penetration point, ensuring a watertight seal and protecting the surrounding roofing materials.

Counter Flashing

A secondary layer of flashing installed over base or step flashing at roof penetrations or where a roof meets a vertical surface. Counter flashing covers the exposed edges of the underlying flashing and directs water away, significantly reducing the risk of leaks.

Cricket

A small, peaked structure built behind roof obstructions such as chimneys or skylights to divert water away. By directing water around these obstacles, a cricket helps prevent pooling and reduces the risk of leaks in these vulnerable areas.

D

Deck (Roof Deck)

The structural surface—commonly made of plywood or oriented strand board (OSB)—to which roofing materials are applied. A solid, properly installed roof deck is critical for the longevity and performance of the entire roofing system.

Dormer

A roofed structure that projects vertically from a sloping roof, often containing a window. Dormers add headroom and natural light to attic spaces or upper floors and require careful flashing to ensure water does not penetrate at the roof intersection.

Downspout

A vertical pipe that channels rainwater from the gutters down to ground level, away from the building’s foundation. Downspouts are an integral part of the drainage system, helping to prevent water damage and soil erosion.

Downspout Bracket

A hardware component used to secure a downspout to the exterior wall or fascia. Downspout brackets ensure that the downspout remains firmly in place, even during heavy rain or high winds.

Downspout Extension

An additional section attached to the bottom of a downspout to carry water further away from the building’s foundation. This extension helps reduce the risk of basement flooding and erosion by directing water to a safe dispersal area.

Drip Edge

A metal flashing installed along the roof’s eaves and rakes, designed to direct water into the gutters and protect the underlying wood and fascia from water damage. Drip edges are essential for proper water runoff and roof longevity.

Drip Edge Flashing

Another term for drip edge, emphasizing its dual function as both a flashing and a water-directing edge. It ensures that water flows off the roof into the gutters rather than seeping underneath the roofing material.

E

Eave

The lower edge of a sloping roof that typically extends beyond the exterior wall. Eaves help direct water away from the building and can provide shade to reduce heat gain on the walls below.

Eave Flashing

A protective layer—often a combination of ice and water shield or metal flashing—installed at the eaves. Eave flashing adds an extra barrier against water infiltration, particularly important in regions prone to ice dam formation.

Edging Strips

Strips of metal or other durable material installed along the edges of roofing systems. Edging strips secure the underlayment and roofing materials, providing a neat finish while reducing the risk of wind uplift and water intrusion.

End Lap

The overlapping section where two pieces of roofing material meet end-to-end. A properly executed end lap is crucial for creating a continuous, watertight barrier that prevents moisture from seeping through the seams.

F

Fascia

A horizontal board attached along the edge of the roof, covering the ends of the rafters and supporting the gutter system. Fascia not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of a roof but also protects the underlying structure from weather damage.

Fasteners

Hardware such as nails, screws, or staples used to secure roofing materials to the roof deck or support structure. The proper selection and installation of fasteners are essential for ensuring the roof withstands high winds and severe weather.

Felt (Felt Paper)

A traditional underlayment made from organic or fiberglass-based paper saturated with asphalt. Felt paper is installed beneath roofing materials to provide an additional layer of protection against water infiltration and leaks.

Flange

A projecting rim or collar on a component, such as a pipe or flashing, that aids in secure attachment and directs water away from critical areas. In roofing, flanges help ensure proper alignment and sealing of flashing components.

Flashing

A thin, durable material—typically metal—used to seal and protect joints, edges, and intersections where water might enter a roof system. Flashing is especially critical around roof penetrations, chimneys, and transitions between different roof planes.

G

Gable

The triangular portion of an exterior wall that extends upward between the edges of a sloping roof. Gable areas are often finished with decorative details and may include windows or vents, enhancing both aesthetics and ventilation.

Gable End

The entire vertical face under the gable portion of a roof. Gable ends require proper sealing and flashing to prevent wind-driven rain from entering the structure.

Gambrel Roof

A roof style featuring two slopes on each side, with the lower slope significantly steeper than the upper. Commonly associated with barns, gambrel roofs provide increased headroom on the upper floor and a distinctive, classic appearance.

Granules

Small, colored mineral particles embedded in the surface of asphalt shingles. Granules protect the shingle from UV rays, enhance fire resistance, and contribute to the overall color and durability of the roof. Over time, granule loss can indicate aging or wear.

Gravel Stop

A raised metal edging used on flat or low-slope roofs to secure gravel or ballast in place. The gravel stop helps maintain an even distribution of the ballast and prevents it from washing away during heavy rain.

Gutter

A trough-like channel installed along the roof edge to collect and redirect rainwater away from the building’s foundation. Gutters come in various materials and profiles and are essential for preventing water damage to the structure.

Gutter Apron

A type of flashing installed underneath the shingles at the roof edge that directs water into the gutter. The gutter apron prevents water from seeping behind the gutter, thereby protecting the fascia and roof structure.

Gutter Cover

A protective device that fits over or inside a gutter to keep out leaves, debris, and other obstructions while still allowing water to flow freely. Gutter covers help reduce maintenance by minimizing clogs.

Gutter Guard

Another term for gutter cover, referring to systems designed to block debris while permitting water to enter the gutter. Gutter guards can be made from mesh, screens, or foam inserts, and they help maintain the efficiency of the drainage system.

Gutter Hanger

A bracket or strap used to attach a gutter securely to the fascia or roof structure. Properly installed gutter hangers are crucial to ensure that the gutter remains aligned and can handle the weight of water and debris.

Gutter Pitch

The slight slope built into a gutter toward the downspout to ensure proper water flow. An accurate gutter pitch is vital for effective drainage, helping to prevent water pooling and overflow.

Gutter Sealant

A waterproof adhesive or caulk used to seal joints, seams, and end caps in the gutter system. Gutter sealant helps prevent leaks and ensures that the system remains watertight over time.

H

Hand Tab

A small adhesive strip on certain asphalt shingles designed to bond the shingle to the course below. Hand tabs aid in creating a tight seal and provide additional resistance to wind uplift.

Head Lap

The vertical overlap of one shingle over the shingle directly below it. A proper head lap is essential for preventing water infiltration and ensuring a continuous, watertight barrier.

Hip

The external angle formed where two sloping roof planes meet, running from the ridge down to the eave. Hips are crucial structural elements in a roof and require specialized shingles or flashing for effective waterproofing.

Hip Roof

A roof design in which all sides slope downwards toward the walls, meeting at a common ridge or peak. Hip roofs are known for their stability and excellent wind resistance, though they typically require more complex framing and installation techniques.

I

Ice Dam

A buildup of ice along the roof’s eaves, usually caused by the refreezing of melted snow. Ice dams can trap water behind them, forcing moisture under shingles and potentially causing significant damage to the roof and interior spaces.

Ice and Water Shield

A self-adhesive, waterproof underlayment applied to critical areas such as eaves and valleys. Ice and water shield protects against water infiltration from ice dams or wind-driven rain, providing an extra layer of defense for the roof.

Interlocking Shingles

Asphalt shingles designed with tabs or grooves that allow them to lock together during installation. This interlocking design enhances wind resistance and creates a more secure, weather-tight roofing system.

K

K-Style Gutter

A popular gutter profile featuring a flat back and bottom with a decorative front resembling crown molding. K-style gutters offer a high capacity and a blend of functionality with aesthetic appeal.

L

Lap

The area where one piece of roofing material overlaps another. This overlapping is essential for creating a continuous, watertight barrier in shingles, flashing, or underlayment installations.

Leader (Downspout/Leader Pipe)

Another term for a downspout, referring to the vertical pipe that carries water from the gutter to the ground or drainage system. Leaders ensure that water is efficiently directed away from the building’s foundation.

M

Mansard Roof

A roof style featuring two slopes on each of its four sides, with the lower slope significantly steeper than the upper. Mansard roofs offer additional living or storage space and contribute a distinctive, often French-inspired, architectural look.

Membrane (Roofing Membrane)

A continuous, waterproof layer applied to low-slope or flat roofs. Roofing membranes, made from materials such as EPDM, TPO, or PVC, serve as the primary barrier against water infiltration and add durability and flexibility to the roof system.

Metal Drip Edge

A metal strip installed along the edges of a roof to direct water away from the fascia and protect the underlying components. Metal drip edges ensure that water flows into the gutters rather than seeping beneath the roofing material.

Modified Bitumen Roof

A roofing material that combines asphalt with polymer modifiers to enhance flexibility and durability. Often used on low-slope roofs, modified bitumen roofs can be installed via torch-down or self-adhering methods, providing a resilient and robust roofing system.

O

Open Valley

A roof valley design where the flashing remains exposed, forming a visible channel that directs water runoff. Open valleys are easier to inspect and maintain, though they may not offer as seamless an appearance as closed-cut valleys.

Oriented Strand Board (OSB)

An engineered wood panel made from compressed wood strands and adhesives. OSB is commonly used as roof decking due to its strength and cost-effectiveness, but it must remain dry during installation to avoid swelling or warping.

Overhang

The portion of the roof that extends beyond the exterior walls, providing shade and directing water away from the building. Overhangs protect the foundation and exterior surfaces from excessive water exposure.

P

Parapet

A low wall or barrier that extends above the roof line, commonly found on flat or low-slope roofs. Parapets offer wind uplift protection and serve as a safety barrier, though they must be properly flashed to prevent water infiltration.

Pipe Boot

A preformed, flexible covering—often made of rubber, silicone, or lead—designed to seal around roof penetrations like vent pipes. Pipe boots create a watertight seal where standard flashing might not fit securely.

Pipe Collar

A metal or plastic ring that fits around a vent pipe, typically used in conjunction with a pipe boot. The pipe collar reinforces the seal and helps direct water away from the roof penetration.

Pitch

The slope of a roof, usually expressed as a ratio of vertical rise to horizontal run (e.g., 6:12). The pitch affects water runoff, the type of roofing material that can be used, and the overall performance of the roof.

Ply

A single layer in a built-up roofing system. The number of plies (layers) in a roofing system is critical for ensuring durability and effective water resistance.

R

Rafter

A structural beam that runs from the roof ridge to the exterior wall, supporting the roof deck and overlying roofing materials. Rafters, along with trusses or joists, form the skeleton of a pitched roof.

Rake

The sloping edge of a gable roof, running from the eave to the ridge. Rakes often feature specialized trim or boards (rake boards) that help protect the edge from water infiltration and provide a finished look.

Reflective Roofing

Roofing materials designed or coated to reflect a significant portion of the sun's energy, thereby reducing heat absorption. Reflective roofing can lower cooling costs and help mitigate the urban heat island effect.

Ridge

The highest horizontal line on a pitched roof, formed by the intersection of two roof planes. The ridge is a key area for ventilation and is often fitted with specialized components such as ridge vents or cap shingles.

Ridge Cap

Specially designed shingles or metal pieces that cover the roof’s ridge, protecting the gap where roof planes meet. Ridge caps provide a finished appearance while preventing water from infiltrating the roof.

Ridge Vent

A ventilation system installed along the roof’s ridge to allow hot, moist air to escape from the attic. Ridge vents work in tandem with soffit vents to promote continuous airflow, reducing heat and moisture buildup.

Roll Roofing

An asphalt-based roofing material sold in rolls, commonly used on low-slope roofs or secondary structures. Roll roofing is valued for its ease of installation and affordability, though it may not offer the longevity of shingle roofing.

Roof Decking

The structural layer, typically made of plywood or OSB, that serves as the foundation for the roofing system. High-quality roof decking is essential for ensuring the stability and durability of the roof.

Roof Jack

A metal flashing or bracket used where the roof meets a wall or around a roof penetration. Roof jacks help secure and seal areas around vents and other protrusions, ensuring that water does not enter the roof assembly.

Roof Sheathing

Another term for roof decking, referring to the panels (typically plywood or OSB) that form the structural base for roofing materials. Proper roof sheathing is critical for achieving a durable and weather-resistant roof.

S

Sealant

A substance—often made from silicone, polyurethane, or asphalt-based compounds—used to fill gaps and seal joints in roofing, flashing, and gutter systems. Sealant creates a watertight barrier that protects the structure from water infiltration, although it may require periodic maintenance.

Seamless Gutter

A gutter system fabricated from a single continuous piece of metal, custom-formed to the exact length of the roof edge. Seamless gutters minimize joints and seams, reducing the risk of leaks and offering a cleaner, more streamlined appearance.

Shake

A type of wooden shingle, typically made from cedar and produced by splitting the wood rather than sawing. Shakes offer a rustic, textured appearance with natural insulation properties, but they require regular maintenance to withstand weather and fire hazards.

Sheathing

Boards or panels—such as plywood or OSB—used as the structural surface beneath roofing materials or exterior siding. In roofing, proper sheathing is essential for providing a secure, flat base that ensures the longevity of the roof.

Skylight

A window installed in the roof plane to allow natural light into the interior space. Skylights can be fixed or operable and must be properly flashed and sealed to prevent leaks while enhancing energy efficiency.

Soffit

The underside of a roof overhang, spanning the gap between the roof edge (fascia) and the exterior wall. Soffits contribute to a finished appearance and, when equipped with vents, play a key role in attic ventilation.

Soffit Vent

Vents installed in the soffit to allow air to flow into the attic, working in conjunction with ridge or roof vents to maintain proper ventilation and temperature control.

Splash Block

A small, typically concrete or plastic block placed at the base of a downspout to redirect water away from the building’s foundation. Splash blocks help prevent soil erosion and reduce the risk of water damage.

Starter Course (Starter Strip)

The first row of shingles or roofing material installed along the eave. The starter course establishes a secure, waterproof seal at the roof edge and ensures proper alignment for the subsequent layers of roofing material.

Step Flashing

Individual pieces of flashing installed in a staggered, step-like fashion where a sloped roof meets a vertical surface, such as a wall or chimney. Each piece is tucked under the shingle above it to create a continuous barrier against water infiltration.

Storm Collar

A ring of flashing installed around a vent pipe, placed above the pipe boot to divert water away from the roof penetration. Storm collars add an extra layer of protection during heavy rain or wind-driven conditions.

T

Tear-Off

The process of removing all existing roofing materials down to the roof deck before installing new roofing. A tear-off allows for a thorough inspection of the deck and provides a clean, secure surface for the new roof, ultimately contributing to its longevity.

Torch Down (Torch-Applied)

A method for installing modified bitumen roofing where the underside of the rolled material is heated with a propane torch until it adheres to the roof deck. Torch down applications require skilled professionals and strict safety measures to prevent fire hazards.

U

Underlayment

A secondary, waterproof or water-resistant layer applied to the roof deck before installing the primary roofing material. Underlayment acts as an important barrier against moisture, ice dams, and wind-driven rain, enhancing the overall durability of the roof.

V

Valley

The internal angle or junction where two sloping roof planes meet, directing water toward the gutters. Properly designed valleys are essential for effective drainage and require regular maintenance to prevent debris buildup and water intrusion.

Vapor Retarder

A layer installed within a roof or wall assembly that limits the passage of water vapor, thereby reducing the risk of condensation and moisture damage to insulation and structural components. Vapor retarders are especially important in climates with significant temperature differences.

Vent Pipe

A pipe that extends through the roof to ventilate plumbing systems and other building services, allowing sewer gases to escape and maintaining proper air pressure. Vent pipes are critical for the safe operation of a building’s plumbing system.

Vent Pipe Flashing

A specially designed flashing component that seals around a vent pipe where it penetrates the roof. Proper vent pipe flashing is crucial to prevent water infiltration at these vulnerable points.

W

Water Repellent Underlayment

An enhanced underlayment designed with water-repellent properties to provide extra protection against water infiltration. This product is often used in areas prone to ice dams or high moisture, ensuring a tighter seal around fasteners and roof penetrations.

Weep Holes

Small openings incorporated into walls, flashing, or other building components to allow trapped water to escape. Weep holes are essential for preventing moisture buildup that could lead to rot, mold, or structural damage.

Wind Uplift

The upward force exerted by high winds on roofing materials, which can cause shingles or panels to become dislodged if not properly secured. Wind uplift resistance is a critical consideration in roofing design and installation, ensuring the roof remains intact during severe weather.