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Common Roofing Terms You Should Know

Common Roofing Terms To Know Before Your
Your Full Roof Replacement

Each Roof Component Simply Explained


Your roof is the most protective aspect of your home – it protects your family and everything within the walls of your house. That’s why it’s essential to have your full replacement installed by the right company and to have some background knowledge of what a full replacement entails. 

When you get a full roof replacement, knowing roofing terms can be beneficial so that you can be aware of what is being addressed in and on your roof. Each component of your roof plays a vital role in keeping your home safe from external conditions. 

In this blog, we’ll cover some of the most common roofing terms that you should know before getting your full roof replacement in Northern New Jersey. 


A Simple Roofing Glossary For Northern New Jersey Homeowners

Getting familiar with these common roofing terms is a great way to feel more comfortable with your next full roof replacement. It’s a large investment, so being as informed as possible regarding everything it entails will help you feel more confident. Let’s get into some of the most common roofing terms. 

Eaves

These are the horizontal edges of your roof – where your roof meets your gutters. Your gutters are essential in moving water away from your roof and thus preventing water damage.

Rakes

These are the angled edges of your roof – they are similar to the eaves, but they are angled instead of horizontal. 

Ridges

These are the horizontal lines on the top of your roof – typically the longest line that can be observed on a rooftop and the highest point of the roof’s frame. 

Hips

These form an intersection between two roofing planes and are down-sloped. These won’t be found on a flat roof. 

Valley

These form a V-shape along the junction of two slopes on a roof – they are the opposite of hips, which project outwards. 

Drip Edge

This metal molding is designed to prevent rain from entering your roof. It is located near the eaves and gutters – it directs water away from the shingles.

Flashing

This is a thin material installed to direct water away from areas where your shingles butt up against something, including walls, valleys, and chimneys. There are various types – galvanized, aluminum, steel, and plastic. It’s one of the most crucial roofing components that every roof must have to avoid leaks in problem areas. 

Soffits

This is the enclosed underside of overhanging eaves – it serves aesthetic and functional benefits. It gives the home a cleaner appearance and improves air circulation throughout the roof system.

Fascia

These are the long and straight boards along the lower roofline. They support the bottom row of shingles. They also prevent water damage from occurring to the roof. 

Underlayment

This roof component is a synthetic fabric sheet installed between the roof deck and the outer layer of the roof. It provides extra protection from the weather and helps prevent water damage. 

Decking

This is one of the most vital structural components of your roof. It encloses the roof structure and creates a sturdy foundation for the shingles. 

Ridge Vents

A ridge vent is an air exhaust vent installed on the peak of a roof. These are essential for a properly ventilated home. They draw air from soffit vents at the base of the roof – they regulate the temperature and prevent moisture accumulation. 

Shingles

These are the most visible components of your roof. They are typically made of asphalt but can be composed of other materials. 

Attic

This is the space between your home and your roof. When properly ventilated, it helps prevent your roofing system from moisture damage and mold.

Gutters And Downspouts

These are two essential portions of your home’s roofing system. They direct rainwater away from your roof and home to prevent water damage. 

If you’re looking to get a full roof replacement from seasoned experts in Sparta, contact RJW Exteriors for a free consultation

Your roof is the most protective aspect of your home – it protects your family and everything within the walls of your house. That’s why it’s essential to have your full replacement installed by the right company and to have some background knowledge of what a full replacement entails. 

If you’re looking to get a full roof replacement in Northern Jersey, turn to experts that you can count on at RJW Exteriors.We offer lifetime warranties and flexible payment options, and we keep an open stream of communication from start to finish. When you work with us, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that your full roof replacement is in the hands of roofing specialists who are obsessed with excellence.

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