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How To Speak Roof — Terms To Know When Working With a Roofing Company 

Getting your roof replaced is difficult enough, considering finances, scheduling, and living with a leaky home until the big day. When Harrisonburg roofing contractors finally arrive, you don’t need the added stress of not knowing what’s going on or what to ask about. 

With these terms, you’ll have the confidence you’ll need to work with your contractors and make sure everything goes smoothly on the big day.

1. Decking

Decking, also referred to as sheathing, refers to the foundation on which the outside roofing materials, such as shingles, are installed. It’s primarily made of wood or concrete. You shouldn’t be able to see the decking unless the shingles have been damaged, in which case it’s time for repairs.

2. Drip Edge

Installed between the decking and the gutter panel, drip edges are vital to your roof. Water damage can ruin even the best Harrisonburg, VA, roofing jobs, leading to costly repairs. Drip edges work to mitigate this risk by diverting rainwater away from where it might do harm.  

3. Fascia

Fascia boards run horizontally along the edge of the roof, supporting gutters and drainage. The drip edge protects these and, in turn, protect the underside of the roof from water.

4. Flashing

Yet another example of anti-water engineering for your roof, flashing is a thin metal sheet that prevents runoff from leaking in at points where the roof meets the walls of the house. Flashing is commonly installed around chimneys and vents by Harrisonburg roofing companies.

5. Frieze Board

A frieze board is an installation between the soffit and the siding of the house, which both provide a finished look and prevent gaps. Exposed gaps are susceptible to leakage, which can cause water damage and would require you to replace not just your roof but the walls of your home to avoid health risks.

6. Gable

The gable is the triangle at the top of a wall where two sloping roofs meet. It adds a finished, decorative look to your home and keeps the structure cohesive.

7. Hip

The hip connects two roof slopes on the side, from the eaves to the top ridge. It can require extra shingles for protection and has the important job of adding extra support for a roof.

8. Ridge & Valley

The ridge, also called the peak, is the top of the roof. It connects the two slopes. It’s important for your Harrisonburg roofing contractors to secure this solidly to prevent mishaps.

The opposite of a ridge, the valley is the low point where two slopes connect, providing a channel for water runoff.

9. Soffit

The underside of a balcony or eaves is called the soffit. These are partially decorative but especially important for keeping the elements out of the rafters.

10. Truss

The truss is the structural frame of the roof and is the most important part, as it supports the rest of the roofing. Truss damage can result in the loss of stability for your home.

In Conclusion

While these aren’t all the words you could encounter in roofing, they’re definitely the most common. Knowing these will help you get the best Harrisonburg roofing repair service possible.

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