If you’re working with a roofing contractor on roof repairs or replacement, you should know the terms commonly used during these processes. This will help you understand the problems and proposed repairs. It’ll also let you clearly communicate concerns about different parts of your roof. Here are the main parts you need to know about.

What Are Roofing Terms You Should Know?

1. Decking

This is the layer of material, usually plywood, that sits on top of the rafters. It’s also called the sheathing. It provides a structure for the shingles, shakes, or metal roofing to attach to.

Because it’s made of wood, it’s vulnerable to water damage, and can also be broken by impact from a tree branch or another large object. To give it extra protection, there is sometimes a waterproof layer added between the decking and shingles called the underlayment.

2. Soffit

The soffit lines the undersides of the eaves where they stick out from the house. It’s made up of finishing material, like wood or fiber cement, and is usually perforated to provide ventilation under the roof. Water damage or animal activity can create holes in the soffit, allowing animals to nest inside, so it needs to be regularly inspected for openings and repaired accordingly.

3. Fascia

The fascia forms the outer edge of your roof. The fascia consists of vertical boards that line the undersides of the eaves at the edge of the soffit. It can be plain or decorative and provides a place to attach the gutters and drip edges.

The boards can sometimes become loose when supporting too much weight from gutters or holiday decorations, or when hit with a ladder. They might need to be nailed back into place or replaced completely, depending on the severity and location of the damage.

4. Drip Edges

A drip edge is an L-shaped piece of metal that sticks out slightly from the edge of the roof and directs water away from the eaves. This reduces the risk of water damage to the fascia, soffit, and house siding. It can also be loosened or bent in the same ways as the fascia.

5. Flashing

Flashing is a strip of lining your roofing contractor will use wherever there’s a penetration, such as a structure like a chimney or a skylight coming through the roof. Flashing is also placed along seams where two planes of the roof meet. It works with the shingles to keep water out of these areas.

Flashing can get loose the same way shingles can in heavy weather, and needs to be replaced promptly to protect the underside of the roof from water damage.

To discuss any of these structures with a roofing contractor, contact Hanley Roofing Co. in Waleska, GA. For over 45 years, they’ve served Cherokee County, keeping up to date with innovations in roofing so they can offer the highest quality roof installations and repairs. Their well-trained staff members are committed to providing outstanding customer service and forming lasting relationships with homeowners. Call (678) 230-8519 to get started. Learn more about them online.