What's In a Roof?

We are really into roofs here at Bill White Roofing and Specialty, and we enjoy sharing our knowledge and expertise with anyone who may be interested in learning more about the most important aspect of their building's structure.  As a leading roofer in Birmingham, we feel that education and awareness are very important when it comes to prolonging the lifespan of your roof.  

​Here is a list of common terms and phrases that are used in the roofing industry with (hopefully) easy to understand explanations: 

Cornice

The decorative molding, usually metal or wood, found at the ends or edges of the roof.  The fascia, frieze board, and rake are all types of cornices.

Cricket

A relatively small peaked area of the roof constructed to divert water around projections such as chimneys, walls, and expansion joints.

Deck

The surface over which the roofing materials are applied.  Roof decking is usually made of wood boards, plywood, or planks and is attached to the rafters.  Also called sheathing.

Dormer

A raised, framed section projecting through the sloping plane of the roof, usually with a window.

Drip Edge

This metal strip is installed along the edges of the roof in order to help channel water away from the roof deck, eaves, and siding.

Eave

The lower edge of the roof, usually the area from the fascia to the building's outside wall.  

Fascia

A vertically positioned board or trim that is placed around the outer edge of the roof.  It typically helps with waterproofing the interior of the building.

Flashing

The material used to keep water from entering the roof system anywhere there is a projection or intersection.  Examples of places roof flashing is installed are: chimneys, vent pipes, valleys, wall joints, perimeters, expansion joints, and any other place the roof covering is interrupted.

Gable

The triangular section of the building that is directly under the slope of the roof and above the eave.

Louvers

The slatted devices that are installed in a gable or on the underside of the roof eaves to help ventilate the attic and regulate temperature and moisture.

Rafter

The structural beams that extend from the ridge to eave in which the roof deck is attached.

Rake

Sloped edge of the roof that is adjacent to the outermost rafter

Ridge

The horizontal line across the highest point of the roof where the two sloping sides intersect.

Soffit

The enclosed area under the roof eave that extends past the building structure.

Underlayment

The material (usually felt) that is placed between the roof deck and shingles to serve as an extra layer of protection from moisture.

Valley

The area where two sloping roof sections intersect, creating a "V" shaped indention.

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Our mission is to be the best roofing company Birmingham has to offer.  Please give us a call at (205) 942-8374 or check out the rest of our website to learn more about how we can help you with anything roof-related!