When you work with a roofing contractor, you may hear certain terms related to your project that you may not understand. While you can always ask them to clarify, it may be helpful to have a quick guide for many of the terms you may here. Here are just a few to get you started!
Ridge
A ridge is the uppermost, horizontal external angle formed by the intersection of two sloping roof planes. Installed at the peak of a sloped roof, the ridge vent allows damp, warm air to escape from the attic. A properly installed ridge vent increases energy efficiency and prolongs the life of your roof.
Deck
A roof deck is the surface installed over the supporting framing members. The primary function of a roof deck is to provide structural support and restraint for the roofing system. The deck must have adequate strength and rigidity to support all anticipated live and dead loads, foot or construction traffic, wind, rain and snow loads.
Underlayment
Underlayment is a portion of your roof that is asphalt saturated felt or synthetically engineered material used beneath your roof to provide additional protection for the deck. Underlayment isn’t always necessary, but should be applied to low-sloped roofs, as well as specific high water risk areas of your home. It can also help improve the fire resistance of your home.
Valley
A valley is the internal angle formed by the intersection of two sloping roof planes. The main function of a valley on your roof is to create a runoff pathway to direct water flow from the roof planes. The volume of water allowed through varies with the valley’s length and slope.
Gable
A gable on your roof is the upper triangular portion of a sidewall that comes to a point at the ridge of a double sloping roof. Roofers in Overland Park say that a gable roof structure easily shed water and snow, which makes them great for areas with heavy moisture such as the Midwest. The steep pitch of a gable allows for great water damage and few leaks. Surprisingly, this also allows for more ventilation and provides more space for an attic or vaulted ceiling.
Dormer
A dormer is a framed window unit that is projecting through a sloping plane of a roof. These portions of your roof are commonly used to increase the usable space in a loft and to create window openings in a roof plane.
Eave
Roofers in Overland Park know this part of your roof as the horizontal, lower edge of a sloped roof. The primary function of an eve is to keep rainwater, or melting snow, off the side of the house. This can prevent water from entering the house at the point where the roof meets the wall.
Ready to Talk With an Overland Park Roofing Company?
Are you ready to hire the best roofer in Overland Park? Look no further than Rhino Roofing. Our experts are prepared to tackle any roofing concern you may have. Our team handles everything from regular maintenance to emergency repair and we can’t wait to help you fix any roofing concern you may have. Contact us today at (913) 371-9099 to discuss your roofing maintenance questions and concerns.