An Industry Jargon Buster: The Words, Tools, Materials, and Parts We Use

Like many people out there, roofing terminologies probably confuse you. In fact, you may have found yourself scratching your head in order to understand what your roofing expert is saying. You thought about the valley near your homestead yet the roofer meant a part of the roof. Bitumen and asphalt, tiles and shingles also seem to confuse you. Well, after going through this Jargon Buster, not only will you be more conversant with the many terminologies used in the roofing industry but will be able to strike a good conversation with your roofing contractor without getting lost.

Nailer

Also known as, the nail gun, this tool is used to drive nails into frames, truss, shingles, plywood, underlayment, bituminous felt, and other materials. It is powered by compressed air that comes from an air compressor machine. It is much easier to use compared to the traditional hammer and you can use it continuously without getting tired quickly. There are different types to suit varied requirements.

Loft Extensions

This is an extension from the main house and is constructed to maximize the existing space. Conventionally, a homeowner would need to build a new structure to add space. However, this can at times be a challenge if funds and space are limited. In many regions, you will also be required to get special permits. A simpler and more convenient option is to construct a loft extension. This can be done inside the roof or attic.

Fascias
These horizontal planks are found on the end of the roof. They normally run on the edges and attach to the rafter. The pieces are made from wood, plastic, PVC, composite wood, and other materials. They improve the structural integrity of the roof, protect the rafters and the truss from dust, moisture, heat, and improve the aesthetic appeal of the property. Another reason for installing fascias is to stop moisture, dust, creatures, and moisture from damaging the sheathing, underlayment, rafters, tiles, and batten.

Soffits
This is the section between the fascia and the wall. You will see it if you are standing beneath the roof. Their primary use is to improve the beauty of the structure. They conceal the rafters, underlayment, batten, and sheathing. Other than beauty, soffits boost air circulation to prevent a damp interior, protect the covering material/ shingles from underneath and add value to the entire roof.

Dormer roof
This is a type of loft extension that will be found within the roof of a pitched, Maynard or gambrel roof. It entails adding a structure and incorporating windows to create an extra room or rooms. It works best in homes with a large roof. The popularity of dormer roof in the UK has risen due to mortgages becoming more expensive. It is also cheaper and takes a relatively short time.

Flashing
If you closely observe the section where the tiles meet the wall, you will see a small metallic strip or piece. It connects the two pieces together while at the same time stopping the penetration of water, moisture, dust, dirt and other things. The sealing piece is made of corrosion and rust-resistant materials such as zinc and lead.

Green Roof
This terminology has become very common in this day and edge of environmental friendliness. The definition of this term is a little diverse. Some people view it as including organic plants on the roof to create a natural green environment. Others deem it as using an environmentally friendly roof that is free of pollutants, artificial compounds, or contaminants.

Hot air seam welding
This term means using a hot air gun to join together pieces of roofing covering such as thermoplastic polyolefins (TPO), Polyvinyl chloride (PVC), alloys of PVC, and other forms of plastic. The tool also works on rubber membranes and will offer an airtight seal to prevent water or rainfall penetration. This technique is suitable for single ply membranes and is deemed safer than other options since it does not produce an open flame.

Ridge
This is the highest point of pitched or sloped the roof and joins two different sections. Beneath the ridge, you will find the head of the rafters (common rafters) or spars. To prevent water, dust, moisture, animals and other things from penetrating the roof, special ridge tiles, shingles, iron sheets, or other materials cover this section.

Single Ply Roofing (SPR)
This is a type of roofing technique where the covering material comprises a single sheet membrane. The covering material consists of flexible sheets, which fall under either thermoplastic membranes or Rubber Polymer Thermoset membranes (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM). There are very flexible and lightweight for easy installation.

Valley
Like the natural valley, this section will be much lower than the rest of the roof. It is found where two different roof sections come together. A valley features a channel for directing the flow of water and other things to the designated zone. NB: Not all roof types will have a valley.

Roof Covering
This material stops the entry of rain, water, dirt, creatures, and other things. It is supported by the truss or framework and comes in different materials. Shingles (US), tiles, corrugated iron sheets, bituminous felt, wood slates, EDPM are the common options.

Pitch
This is the slope of the roof and is defined in angle or degree. The higher the pitch the more acute the angle and the faster the water will flow. However, it will utilise more material in comparison to a low pitch roof. Flat roofs aren’t completely flat and have a slight incline for easy movement of water, snow, dirt, leaves and other things.

Other popular terms include Eaves, Flaunching, Parapet, Hips, Verge, Gable, and Abutment.

Final Thoughts

After going through this article, you should be more familiar with the different terms. We have listed the popular terms that you will certainly hear about every day. While having a good understanding of the roof sections, tools, and materials is a plus, you should always work with a competent contractor.

Roofers Bristol UK is one name that comes to mind in regards to quality and reliable service. Established some time back, the company has grown from a humble beginning to become one of the most established companies in the city. For more information about the industry jargon and roofing services, you can stopover at the company’s website at https://roofersbristoluk.co.uk They also have a team of friendly customer service representatives waiting for your call or to give you a free quote.