Whether you're a seasoned Detroit metro or Grand Rapids homeowner or new to the game, it's important to learn about your home's features to stay educated on home remodeling and buying. Many people don't realize that a roof has many parts that all have to work together to keep your home safe from weather over the years.

Common Roofing Terms and Definitions

Knowing the lingo is one of the most important things you can do to keep up with your home knowledge. Whether you're an avid DIYer or working with a professional roofer in Dearborn or Plymouth, it's still important to be able to talk about the main parts of your roofing system. Let's go over some roofing terms and their definitions:

  • Roof Decking: Roof decking is considered to be the plywood or other type of wood under the roofing system that is imperative to the structural integrity of the roof.
  • Roof Flashing: Flashing is typically a metal sheet that is used to redirect rain from critical areas of the roof like the chimney or vents.
  • Roof Underlayment: Underlayment lays between the roof decking and shingles as a secondary layer of protection from the elements.
  • Ice and Water Shield: This is a specific type of roof underlayment that gets stuck on the plywood to protect critical areas from ice and water damage.
  • Rakes and Eaves: Rakes are a sloped edge that runs along the end of the roof. Eaves extend beyond a wall to offer rainwater runoff.
  • Gable: A gable is the part of the roof that is formed when two roof pitches intersect to form a triangular shape or a point.
  • Drip Edge: A drip edge is a strip of metal that is placed along the edges of the roof to ensure that rainwater does not get under the shingles.
  • Fascia: A fascia is a board or panel that runs horizontally along the lower edge of the roof eaves to provide a place for the gutters to be attached.
  • Soffit: A soffit is the exposed surface beneath the overhanging section of a roof eave which allows airflow into the attic space of a home.
  • Starter Shingles: Starter shingles are specifically designed to begin the row of shingles at the eaves and rakes of the roof for a secure foundation.

Choose Kearns Brothers for In-Depth Roofing Expertise in Detroit Metro and Grand Rapids

Since 1986, Kearns Brothers has been serving Detroit metro and Grand Rapids with outstanding roofing services. We know roofing in and out and can get you all the answers you need before your roof installation or roof replacement. We're proud to be A+ rated by the Better Business Bureau for roofing, solar, home exteriors, storm damage, and commercial services. Reach out today to get more information and a free inspection!