Roofing
Rafter
Definition
An angled member that forms the sloped framework of a pitched roof.
Usage in Construction
Roof rafters must be sized to withstand snow loads and wind pressure.
Related Terms
Truss
Ridge board
Collar tie
Valley
Definition
The internal angled joint where two sloped roof surfaces meet.
Usage in Construction
Roof valleys require special metal flashing to prevent water leaks.
Related Terms
Hip
Ridge
Flashing
Ridge
Definition
The highest point of a pitched roof where two roof planes meet at an angle.
Usage in Construction
Ridge vents allow hot and moist air to escape from the attic.
Related Terms
Peak
Valley
Dormer
Soffit
Definition
The underside of a structural element such as an arch, beam, or roof overhang.
Usage in Construction
Ventilation holes in the soffit allow air circulation in the attic space.
Related Terms
Fascia
Eaves
Overhang
Eaves
Definition
The lower border of a roof that projects beyond and overhangs the building walls.
Usage in Construction
Rain gutters installed along the eaves direct water away from the foundation.
Related Terms
Overhang
Soffit
Gutter
Fascia
Definition
A horizontal board attached to the ends of rafters, forming the edge of the roof.
Usage in Construction
Gutters are attached to the fascia board to collect and direct rainwater.
Related Terms
Soffit
Gutter
Eaves
Flashing
Definition
Sheet metal used to direct water away from building seams and penetrations.
Usage in Construction
Metal flashing installed around chimney prevents water leaks.
Related Terms
Water management
Membrane
Valley
Gutter
Definition
A channel that collects and directs rainwater from the roof.
Usage in Construction
Seamless gutters help protect the foundation by directing water away.
Related Terms
Downspout
Fascia
Drainage
Hip roof
Definition
A roof with sloping sides and ends meeting at a ridge and hip lines.
Usage in Construction
Hip roofs provide good wind resistance and allow better water drainage.
Related Terms
Gable
Mansard
Roof shape
Shingles
Definition
Overlapping tiles or boards used to cover roofs and exterior walls.
Usage in Construction
Asphalt shingles are the most common roofing material in residential construction.
Related Terms
Roofing
Membrane
Coverage
Downspout
Definition
A vertical pipe that carries water from gutters to the ground or drainage system.
Usage in Construction
Downspouts should discharge water at least 5 feet away from the foundation.
Related Terms
Gutter
Drainage
Water management
Gambrel roof
Definition
A roof with two slopes on each side, typically associated with barn construction.
Usage in Construction
Gambrel roofs maximize attic space in traditional barn designs.
Related Terms
Hip
Gable
Roof shape
Attic ventilation
Definition
A system of vents that allows air circulation in the attic space.
Usage in Construction
Proper attic ventilation prevents moisture buildup and extends roof life.
Related Terms
Vent
Air flow
Moisture control
Ridge vent
Definition
A continuous vent installed along the roof peak for air exhaust.
Usage in Construction
Ridge vents work with soffit vents to create continuous attic ventilation.
Related Terms
Vent
Ridge
Ventilation
Asphalt shingle
Definition
The most common residential roofing material made from asphalt-coated fiberglass.
Usage in Construction
Asphalt shingles provide affordable protection and come in many colors.
Related Terms
Shingle
Roofing
Affordable
Gable vent
Definition
A vent installed in the gable wall of an attic for air circulation.
Usage in Construction
Gable vents provide exhaust ventilation for attic air.
Related Terms
Vent
Gable
Ventilation
Roofing membrane
Definition
A waterproof layer of material used in flat and low-slope roofs.
Usage in Construction
The TPO roofing membrane provides excellent durability and flexibility.
Related Terms
Waterproof
Material
Flat roof
Metal roofing
Definition
Roofing made from metal sheets or panels providing durability and longevity.
Usage in Construction
Metal roofing reflects heat and lasts 40+ years with minimal maintenance.
Related Terms
Roofing
Metal
Durable
Wood shake
Definition
A thick, hand-split roofing material providing a rustic appearance.
Usage in Construction
Wood shakes give the home a natural, distinctive look.
Related Terms
Roofing
Natural
Wood
Clay tile
Definition
Traditional barrel or Spanish-style roofing tiles made from clay.
Usage in Construction
Clay tile roofing provides Mediterranean character and excellent durability.
Related Terms
Tile
Roofing
Traditional
Rafter tail
Definition
The extended portion of a rafter that projects beyond the wall.
Usage in Construction
Ornamental rafter tails provide architectural detail and eave overhang.
Related Terms
Rafter
Overhang
Eave
Soffit vent
Definition
A vent installed in the soffit to allow air intake into the attic.
Usage in Construction
Soffit vents provide necessary intake air for attic ventilation systems.
Related Terms
Vent
Soffit
Air intake
Ice dam prevention
Definition
Techniques and materials used to prevent ice dams on roofs.
Usage in Construction
Proper insulation and ventilation prevent ice dams in winter.
Related Terms
Ice dam
Prevention
Winter
Concrete tile
Definition
Roofing tiles made from concrete, offering durability and affordability.
Usage in Construction
Concrete tiles mimic clay tiles at a lower cost.
Related Terms
Tile
Roofing
Concrete
Butterfly roof
Definition
A roof that slopes down toward the center, creating a V-shape.
Usage in Construction
Butterfly roofs drain toward the interior collecting system.
Related Terms
Roof
Shape
Drainage
Living roof
Definition
A roof covered with vegetation and growing medium.
Usage in Construction
Living roofs provide insulation and stormwater management.
Related Terms
Green roof
Vegetation
Sustainable