Glossary of Roofing Terms
This operational glossary contains critical intel to help you understand the battlefield. If you have specific questions, join the largest Facebook group about roofing for non-roofers that we run. It's a no-Brainer!
A
AHJ (Authority Having Jurisdiction)
This is the official governing body that sets and enforces building codes in your specific area, such as a city, town, or county building department. They are responsible for issuing permits and conducting inspections to ensure all work meets the minimum safety standards for their jurisdiction.
Architectural Shingles
Also known as dimensional or laminated shingles, these are the modern standard for high-quality asphalt roofing. They are thicker and heavier than basic 3-tab shingles and are constructed with multiple layers of material fused together. This design gives them a more durable, wind-resistant profile and a textured, three-dimensional appearance.
ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials)
An international organization that develops and publishes voluntary technical standards for a wide range of materials, products, systems, and services. In roofing, ASTM standards are used to test and certify the wind resistance, fire resistance, and durability of shingles and other components.
Attic Insulation
Material placed in the floor of an attic (or underside of the roof deck) to resist heat flow. Proper insulation works with attic ventilation to keep a home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter, lowering energy bills and preventing the formation of ice dams.
B
Battens
Strips of wood, metal, or synthetic material that are fastened to the roof deck (often over the underlayment). On tile or metal roofs, the roofing material is then attached to these battens instead of directly to the deck. This can create an air gap for improved energy efficiency and provide secure attachment points.
Bird-Stop Flashing
A type of metal flashing installed at the eave of a tile or metal roof. It's designed to prevent birds, insects, and wind-driven rain from getting into the gaps and under the roof system.
Box Vent
A type of static (non-moving) exhaust vent that is installed over a hole cut in the roof deck to allow hot air and moisture to escape the attic. They are a common, cost-effective ventilation option.
Bruised Shingles
A circular dent or dark spot on a shingle caused by hail, where the impact has dislodged the protective granules, exposing the black asphalt mat underneath. These bruises often feel soft to the touch, indicating structural damage to the shingle's mat. While often invisible from the ground, they will lead to premature failure and leaks.
BUR (Built-Up Roofing)
A classic and durable roofing system for flat or low-slope roofs, often referred to as "tar and gravel." It is constructed on-site with multiple alternating layers of reinforcing fabric (plies) and a waterproofing agent like hot asphalt (bitumen).
C
Cap Nails
A type of roofing fastener that consists of a nail with a large plastic or metal washer, called a cap, attached. They are used to secure underlayment to the roof deck. The wide cap provides a stronger hold and helps to seal the nail hole, preventing leaks and reducing the chance of the underlayment tearing in the wind.
Coating (for Flat Roofs)
A liquid roofing system (often silicone or acrylic) that gets sprayed or rolled on. The liquid then cures into a seamless, waterproof membrane covering the surface of a roof. It creates a seamless barrier that protects the underlying roof from UV rays, weathering, and leaks, and can improve energy efficiency by reflecting sunlight.
Concrete Tile
A premium steep-slope roofing material known for its extreme durability and longevity. Concrete tiles are fire-resistant, can withstand high winds, and can last for decades. They are manufactured to mimic the appearance of natural materials like slate or clay tile.
Corrugated Metal Panels
A utilitarian roofing system made of metal sheets that have been shaped into a wavy (corrugated) pattern to provide strength. Known for its durability and cost-effectiveness, it uses exposed fasteners and is often found on agricultural, industrial, or rustic-style buildings.
D
Deductible
The fixed amount that you, the policyholder, are responsible for paying out-of-pocket on an insurance claim before the insurance benefits kick in. In Colorado, it is illegal for a contractor to waive, cover, or rebate a homeowner's deductible.
Depreciation (ACV vs. RCV)
The reduction in a property's value due to age and wear. Insurance policies often pay in two parts: first, the Actual Cash Value (ACV), which is the full replacement cost minus the depreciation. After repairs are complete, the insurer releases the withheld depreciation, known as Recoverable Cash Value (RCV), bringing the total payout to the full replacement cost (minus your deductible).
Detach and Reset (D&R)
The process of professionally and safely removing an existing solar panel array from a roof, storing it during the roof replacement, and then reinstalling and recommissioning the system after the new roof is complete.
Downspout
The vertical pipe that channels water from the gutter down to the ground. A properly functioning downspout directs water away from the home's foundation to prevent erosion and basement leaks.
Drip Edge
A piece of metal flashing installed at the edges of the roof (eaves and rakes). Its purpose is to direct water away from the fascia and into the gutters, preventing water from rotting the underlying wood of the roof deck and fascia board.
E
Eaves
The bottom, horizontal edges of a sloped roof that overhang the walls of the house. This is where gutters are typically installed.
EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer)
A highly durable synthetic rubber membrane used for flat and low-slope roofing. It is known for its exceptional flexibility, longevity, and resistance to hail, UV radiation, and extreme temperatures. Often black but available in white, its seams are typically sealed with specialized adhesives or tapes to create a waterproof barrier.
Exposure
The portion of a roofing shingle that is left exposed to the elements after installation. For example, a standard architectural shingle might be 13 inches tall, but have an exposure of only 5 ⅝ inches. This specific measurement is dictated by the manufacturer and is critical for ensuring the roof sheds water correctly and meets its wind warranty.
F
Fascia
The long, straight board that runs along the edges of the roof (both the eaves and rakes). It supports the edge of the roof and is the surface to which the gutters are attached.
Fire Rating (Class A)
A roof's ability to resist ignition and prevent the spread of fire from an external source, as tested by ASTM E108 or UL 790 standards. Class A is the highest rating available, indicating the roofing material is effective against severe fire exposure. This is a core component of an "apocalypse-proof" roof.
Flat / Low-Slope Roof
A roof with a very minimal slope, typically less than 2 inches of vertical rise for every 12 inches of horizontal run (a 2:12 pitch). Because they do not shed water rapidly, they cannot use shingles or tiles and instead require a continuous, waterproof membrane system (like TPO, EPDM, or Modified Bitumen) to prevent water intrusion.
Flashing
Pieces of metal used to prevent water intrusion at joints or intersections on a roof, such as where the roof meets a wall, chimney, or valley. Proper flashing is one of the most critical components of a leak-proof roof system.
Full Tear-Off
The process of completely removing all old roofing materials down to the structural sheathing (decking) before installing a new system. A full tear-off is a non-negotiable part of a proper roof replacement, as it allows for inspection and repair of the underlying wood.
G
Gutter Guards
A protective covering installed over gutters to prevent leaves, twigs, and other debris from entering and causing clogs. A properly installed gutter guard system allows water to flow freely while blocking obstructions, reducing the need for frequent cleaning and preventing water damage.
H
Hip
The external angle formed by the intersection of two sloping roof planes, running from the ridge down to the eaves. It is the opposite of a valley. Hips are covered with specialized hip and ridge cap shingles.
Hip & Ridge Cap Shingles
Specialized, thicker shingles designed specifically to cover the hips and ridges of a roof. They provide a durable, weather-resistant seal at these critical junctions and create a finished, high-profile look.
I
ICC General Roofing Contractor
A certification granted by the International Code Council (ICC). An ICC-certified contractor has passed a standardized national exam, demonstrating a high level of knowledge of roofing materials, installation practices, and building codes. It is a key indicator of a professional, non-zombie roofer.
Ice and Water Shield (IWS)
A self-adhering, waterproof membrane that is installed under the shingles in the most vulnerable areas of a roof (like eaves, valleys, and around penetrations). It forms a watertight seal around the nails that pass through it, providing a critical last line of defense against leaks from ice dams and wind-driven rain.
Ice Dam
A ridge of ice that forms at the edge of a roof, preventing melting snow (water) from draining properly. The backed-up water can then leak into the home, causing significant damage to walls, ceilings, and insulation. Ice dams are typically caused by a combination of heavy snowfall and improper attic insulation or ventilation.
Impact Resistance Rating
A classification (Class 1-4) that indicates a shingle's ability to withstand the impact of an object, like hail, without breaking. Class 4 is the highest rating, signifying that the shingle has been tested to resist the impact of a 2-inch steel ball dropped from 20 feet.
Insurance Adjuster
The official representative of an insurance company responsible for determining the company's liability for a loss. Most insurance carriers have shifted to a two-part system: a third-party inspector assesses the property in person, and a "desk adjuster" makes the final decision remotely based on photos. This often leads to incomplete or inaccurate initial assessments.
IRC (International Residential Code)
A comprehensive set of rules that sets the minimum standards for one- and two-family dwellings. Most local building codes in the United States are based on the IRC, which is then modified with local amendments.
K
Kick-Out Flashing
A special piece of flashing installed where an eave meets a wall. Its purpose is to divert water away from the wall and into the gutter, preventing water from getting behind the siding and causing significant damage.
L
Layers (Roof System)
Building codes typically limit a roof to a single "layer" or system to prevent excess weight. This means you cannot install new shingles over a layer of old, existing shingles (a "roof-over").
Licensed Roofer
A roofing contractor who has officially met the legal requirements of a governing body, such as a city or county. This typically involves passing a standardized, proctored exam covering building codes and installation practices, as well as providing proof of liability and workers' compensation insurance.
Lifetime Warranty
A warranty that covers the installation and craftsmanship of your roof for the "lifetime" of the roofing materials themselves, as defined by the manufacturer. This is separate from the manufacturer's warranty, which covers defects in the roofing materials.
Lumanail
A technologically superior fastener and a key component of our fortification protocol. Its fluorescent orange, powder-coated head is highly visible, allowing operatives to instantly spot improperly driven nails for quality control. The UV-reactive coating is even visible under blacklight, allowing for meticulous post-job cleanup. It also features a ring-shanked shaft for superior holding power.
M
Mid-Roof Inspection
An inspection performed by the AHJ's building inspector during the roof installation process. This allows the inspector to verify that critical components like underlayment, drip edge, and starter strips have been installed correctly before they are covered up.
Modified Bitumen
An asphalt-based roofing material for flat and low-slope roofs that is an evolution of Built-Up Roofing (BUR). It comes in rolls and is modified with polymers to give it advanced rubber-like properties, increasing its flexibility and durability.
N
Net Metering
A billing process that allows solar system owners to send excess electricity they generate back to the utility grid. You receive a credit for this power, which you can use to offset the cost of electricity you draw from the grid at night or on cloudy days.
P
Penetration
Anything that passes through the roof surface, such as a vent pipe, chimney, or skylight. Each penetration creates a potential weak point for leaks and must be properly sealed with flashing to maintain the roof's defensive perimeter.
Pipe Boot (Pipe Jack)
A type of flashing used to seal around the plumbing vent pipes that penetrate a roof. It consists of a flat base with a rubberized, cone-shaped collar that fits snugly around the pipe to create a watertight seal.
Pitch
The slope or angle of a roof, expressed as a ratio of vertical rise to horizontal run, usually in inches. For example, a "4:12 pitch" means the roof rises 4 inches for every 12 inches of horizontal distance.
Post-Storm Recon
The official N.Z.R. designation for our elite roof inspection service. It is a comprehensive intelligence-gathering operation designed to identify and document every point of weakness on your roof, arming you with the narrated video evidence needed to mount a successful defense against insurance companies or zombie roofers.
Project Manager
The operative responsible for the planning, execution, and closing of a roofing project. A true Project Manager has deep technical knowledge of materials, codes, and installation procedures, acting as the main point of contact and ensuring the mission is completed to the highest standards. They are the opposite of an uninformed salesperson.
PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)
A single-ply roofing membrane used on flat and low-slope roofs. PVC is known for its exceptional strength, durability, and resistance to chemicals, grease, and fire. Its seams are heat-welded to form a monolithic, waterproof barrier.
R
Rakes
The sloped or angled edges of a roof that run from the eave up to the peak.
Ridge
The highest horizontal point on a roof, formed by the intersection of two sloping roof planes. The ridge is often covered by specialized ridge cap shingles and is a key location for exhaust vents.
Ridge Vent
An exhaust vent that runs the entire horizontal length of a roof's ridge. It is installed underneath the ridge cap shingles, creating a highly efficient and aesthetically pleasing system for venting the entire attic space evenly.
Ring Shank
A type of nail that has a series of rings or grooves along its shank. These rings grip the wood, providing significantly more withdrawal resistance than a standard smooth-shank nail, making it far superior for securing a roof deck and withstanding high winds.
S
Scupper
An opening in the side of a wall or parapet on a flat roof that allows water to drain off the edge. Scuppers are a primary drainage component for many commercial roofing systems, acting as an outlet that connects to a downspout or directs water away from the building.
Sheathing (or Decking)
The wood panels (usually OSB or plywood) that are attached to the trusses or rafters of your home. Sheathing forms the structural foundation of the roof, and all other roofing materials are attached to it.
Soft Metals
A term used to describe the lightweight metal components on a home's exterior that are susceptible to hail damage. This includes aluminum or vinyl window wrapping, fascia cladding, and some types of gutters and downspouts. A thorough storm damage inspection always includes an assessment of soft metals.
Soffit
The underside of the roof's overhang. Soffits often contain vents that are a critical part of the attic's ventilation system, allowing fresh air to enter.
Solar Panel (Photovoltaic/PV)
The primary component of a solar energy system that captures sunlight and converts it directly into electricity. Fortifying your roof with solar panels is the first step toward energy independence.
Standing Seam Metal Roof
A premium roofing system consisting of vertical metal panels joined by raised, interlocking seams. This design conceals the fasteners, protecting them from the elements and creating a sleek, modern aesthetic. Standing seam roofs are exceptionally durable, long-lasting, and highly effective at shedding snow and water.
Starter Shingle
The first course of shingles installed at the eaves of the roof. It has a continuous line of sealant that bonds to the first row of field shingles, providing a secure, wind-resistant edge.
Step Flashing
Rectangular pieces of metal that are installed in an overlapping, "step" pattern alongside shingles where a roof meets a vertical wall (a roof-to-sidewall junction). Each piece of step flashing channels water down the roof and over the shingle below it.
Storm Collar
A specific piece of flashing that fits around a pipe or mast where it emerges from a pipe boot. It is tightened around the pipe above the boot's collar and creates a second seal that prevents water from running down the pipe and into the boot, providing redundant protection.
Storm Chaser
An out-of-town contractor who travels to areas recently hit by severe weather, like hailstorms. They often perform quick, substandard work, collect payment, and then disappear, leaving homeowners with a worthless "tail light warranty" and no recourse for repairs.
Stone-Coated Steel Tiles
A premium roofing system that combines the strength of steel with the aesthetic of traditional materials. Interlocking steel panels are coated with stone granules to create the look of slate, clay tile, or wood shake, but with superior durability, hail resistance, and a lower weight than concrete tiles.
Steep Slope Roof
A roof with a pitch of 2:12 or greater. These roofs are designed to use gravity to shed water quickly and are suitable for installing materials like asphalt shingles, tile (3:12+), slate, or metal panels that are installed in an overlapping fashion.
Supplementary Claim
A request made to an insurance company for additional funds to be added to an existing claim. A supplement is necessary when hidden or unforeseen work, which is covered by the policy but was not included in the original adjuster's estimate, is discovered during the repair process.
Synthetic Slate Roofing
A high-end roofing material made from engineered polymers or recycled rubber and plastics. It is designed to expertly mimic the look of natural slate but is significantly lighter, more durable, and more impact-resistant. It provides the premium, fortress-like appearance of slate without requiring a specially reinforced roof structure.
Synthetic Felt (Underlayment)
A modern type of roofing underlayment made from woven polypropylene. It is significantly more tear-resistant, water-resistant, and durable than traditional asphalt-saturated felt paper, providing a much more reliable secondary barrier against leaks.
T
3-Tab Shingle
A basic type of asphalt shingle that gets its name from the three distinct "tabs" on each shingle strip. They are generally less durable and have lower wind resistance compared to modern "architectural" or "laminated" shingles used today.
Tail Light Warranty
A cynical industry term for the worthless guarantee offered by "zombie" or storm-chasing contractors. The warranty is only good for as long as you can see their truck's tail lights as they drive away. It signifies a lack of commitment to quality, longevity, and post-installation service.
TPO (Thermoplastic Olefin)
A popular single-ply membrane for flat and low-slope roofs, known for its energy efficiency. TPO is typically white and highly reflective, which helps reduce cooling costs in sunny climates. Its seams are heat-welded to create a strong, monolithic barrier against moisture.
Turbine Vent
A type of exhaust vent that uses spinning vanes to actively pull hot air and moisture out of the attic as the wind blows. While effective, they must be part of a balanced ventilation system and should never be mixed with other exhaust vent types.
U
UL (Underwriters Laboratories)
A global safety certification company. In roofing, the UL label signifies that a product has been independently tested and meets specific safety and performance standards, such as fire resistance (UL 790) or impact resistance (UL 2218).
Underlayment
The layer of material, usually synthetic felt or traditional felt paper, that is placed between the roof sheathing and the shingles or tiles. Its primary job is to serve as a secondary barrier of protection against water intrusion if the shingles are ever damaged or blown off.
V
Valley
The internal angle or channel created where two sloping roof planes meet. Because a large volume of water is directed into the valley, it is a critical weak point that is highly susceptible to leaks and requires specialized installation techniques and extra protection (like Ice & Water Shield) to fortify it properly.
Ventilation
The system that allows air to circulate in the attic, balancing the temperature and reducing moisture buildup. A proper ventilation system consists of intake vents (usually in the soffits) to draw in cool, dry air and exhaust vents (like ridge or box vents) to release hot, moist air.
W
Wind Rating
A classification that indicates a shingle's ability to resist blowing off in high winds, as certified by standardized tests like ASTM D7158 (the highest rating is H for 150 MPH) and D3161 (the highest rating is F for 110 MPH). A high wind rating is a critical defense for any outpost on the Colorado Front Range.
Wood Shake
A type of roofing made from split logs, typically cedar. Wood shakes provide a natural, rustic aesthetic but require regular maintenance to prevent rot and moss growth. Compared to other modern systems, they are less fire-resistant.
Wood Rot / Deck Rot
Decay of the roof's wooden sheathing (decking) caused by prolonged exposure to moisture, usually from a leak or an ice dam with inadequate IWS. Rotted decking becomes soft and spongy, losing its structural integrity and ability to hold nails securely. It is a critical threat that must be fully cut out and replaced before a new roofing system can be installed.
Workmanship Warranty
A guarantee provided by the roofing contractor that covers the quality of the installation and labor, separate from the manufacturer's warranty which covers the materials. A "zombie roofer" might offer a worthless tail light warranty, but a professional stands behind their work for a specified period, like our available Lifetime Workmanship Warranty.
Z
Zombie Roofer
Our term for a contractor who is a symptom of a broken system, not necessarily one who is intentionally harmful. Typically, the process involves a salesperson with little to no installation or building code knowledge selling a roof. They then hire an unlicensed crew who may only know how to nail shingles but lacks knowledge of specific codes that vary from town to town. This creates a "blind leading the blind" scenario, where the homeowner is left with a subpar roof built by a contractor mindlessly following the horde.