Minnesota Roofer Terminology 101

If you are shopping for a new roof, it helps to learn a little bit of roof terminology. With some common terms you can have a more informed conversation with your roofing contractor.  At Midwest Roofing, Siding & Windows, we are always glad to help our clients know more about their roofs – it makes our job easier!  

Minnesota Roofers TerminologyBasic Terms of Minnesota Roofers:

  • Sheathing: Exterior-grade boards of lumber that are used to construct the roof deck.
  • Underlayment: A layer of tar paper that is used to cover the bare sheathing for added protection before the shingles are installed.
  • Flashing: Material that is used to seal and weatherproof the edges of your roof system in areas where the roof covering ends or is interrupted such as expansion joints, walls, drains, or the perimeter.
    • Drip edge: Metal flashing that controls the direction of dripping water to prevent damage to underlying building components.
    • Pipe collar: A type of flashing that is used to seal any space around pipes that go through your roof in order to prevent leaks.
  • Soffit: Finished underside of roof eaves.
  • Fascia: Vertical or sloped trim along the perimeter of a building that acts border for a low-slope roof to prevent water from getting inside.
  • Ventilation: Features added to your roof that allow air to circulate freely, such as ridges, gables, rafter vents or vented soffits.
  • Fire rating: Classifications developed by ASTM, UK and NFPA that evaluate the flammability of roofing materials based on ability to prevent spread of fire to attic area, resistance of flames spreading on roof, and resisting producing burning embers
  • Three-tab shingles: Shingles that are single layered with three tabs.
  • Architectural shingles: Shingles that provide a more 3-dimensional appearance.
  • Hip shingles: Shingles that are used to cover the inclined external angle that is formed where two sloping roof planes intersect.
  • Ridge shingles: Shingles that cover the horizontal external angle that is formed where two sloping roof planes intersect.

By being an informed customer, you can help make the process of replacing your roof a more enjoyable experience for you and your team of Minnesota roofers.

Contact Midwest Roofing, Siding & Windows for more information – and check out our handy Residential Roofing Handbook below!




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