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The exterior of your home is often a heavy investment, and for a good reason. Roofing contractors have the task of maintaining and replacing these complex protection systems for your home.

When getting a roof replacement, it’s good to know the components of a roofing system, so you have a better understanding of what your roofing professionals will undertake. If you’re getting a roof repair or preparing to get a full roof replacement, take a look at these nine roofing terms!

1. Deck

Roof decking includes the materials that lay between the roof's structure (joists and rafters), the insulation, and waterproofing materials. The roof deck needs to be strong and durable, with the ability to give a little.

2. Eaves

Eaves are an overhang on the edge of your roof. Eaves help keep rainwater and other moisture away from the siding of your home. Additionally, eaves help provide a little bit of shade to parts of your home on hot days.

3. Flashing

Flashing is essentially trim for your roof. Flashing takes the form of sheet metal around your chimneys, vents, eaves, and other structures found on your roof. Flashing creates a strong seal at the seams of your roof, preventing moisture from getting in.

4. Pitch

Pitch is an essential phrase in most areas of construction work. In roofing, the purpose of the pitch is to provide a slope steep enough for rainwater to drain into your gutters properly. The pitch type on homes varies, making the roof repair or replacement process different for each.

5. Rafters

Rafters, otherwise known as trusses, are sloped structural parts, usually made of wooden beams, that extend from the ridge or hip to the wall plate. They are used to support the roof shingles and deck.

6. Sheathing

Also known as roof decking, sheathing sits below the underlayment. Roof sheathing is the very first layer of your roof installation. Strong sheets of plywood are attached to the joists and trusses before the rest of the roof installation.

7. Soffits

Throughout the eaves on your roof, you will find soffits. Soffits are boarded underside on eaves and help provide ventilation to the attic, which can help prevent ice dams from forming in the winter.

8. Surface Materials

You may recognize the term “surface materials” but aren’t fully aware of what that entails as far as roofing goes. Surface materials refer to the very outer layer of your roof! The most popular type of surface material for roofs is asphalt shingles. However, there are several other surface materials you can choose from, such as metal roofing and cedar shake roofing.

9. Underlayment

There are multiple layers to roofing installation. An underlayment sits right under the roof’s shingles, creating a waterproof barrier. Underlayments are usually made with felt that helps keep moisture from rain seeping any deeper.

Contact Trinity Exteriors for Twin Cities Roofing Work

When you need trusted roofing repair or replacement in the Twin Cities area, call on Trinity Exteriors. Our guiding principles are service, quality, and integrity, which we strive to follow in every job for every customer.

We are passionate about craftsmanship and delivering the best final product. With over 15 years of experience, we’re ready to tackle whatever roofing or siding problems you encounter. Schedule a free inspection online or give us a call at 952-920-9520 today!