0-9
- “Two chucks in a truck” repairs
- An informal industry phrase for low-quality, cut-rate roofing work done by underqualified or unprofessional contractors, often lacking proper tools or training.
A
- Acrylic coating
- A reflective, water-based roof coating that helps lower building temperatures. It is commonly applied to commercial flat roofs for energy efficiency and UV resistance.
- Actual thickness
- The true, measured thickness of a roofing membrane at any given point, which can vary slightly from its nominal (labeled) thickness due to manufacturing inconsistencies.
- Alligatoring
- The cracking of a roof surface into small, block-like patterns that resemble alligator skin. It occurs when asphalt-based materials dry out from UV exposure and age.
- Aluminum
- A lightweight, corrosion-resistant metal commonly used for roofing panels, flashing, and edging. Aluminum roofing resists rust and reflects heat, making it popular in coastal and energy-efficient applications.
- Amber skylight
- A skylight with amber-tinted glazing that softens daylight and reduces glare while adding a warm tone indoors. It helps control heat gain compared to clear skylights but somewhat limits natural light infiltration into your interior.
- Architectural shingle
- A thicker, layered asphalt shingle that creates a dimensional appearance and longer service life. Architectural shingles are more durable and visually appealing than three-tab shingles, but they cost more as a consequence.
- Architectural steep slope metal roof
- A decorative, high-performance roofing system designed for steep slope applications using metal panels. Architectural steep slope metal roofs prioritize appearance while still providing strong weather resistance.
- Assembly layer
- One of the stacked components in a roofing system, typically including the roof deck, insulation, and waterproofing membrane.
- ASTM standards
- Testing standards developed by the American Society for Testing and Materials that set performance requirements for roofing materials. These include fire ratings and wind uplift, among other measures.
B
- B-vent
- A double-walled metal vent pipe used to safely exhaust gas appliances like furnaces and water heaters through the roof. The outer wall protects against corrosion and overheating produced by these extra-strength amenities.
- Ballasted attachment
- A roofing system where the membrane and insulation are held in place by heavy materials like river rock or pavers, rather than fasteners or adhesives. It’s quick to install but adds weight and can be harder to inspect or repair.
- Basket drain
- A drainage device that use a perforated basket to catch debris while allowing water flow. Basket drains prevent blockages and extend the performance of roof drainage systems.
- Blistering
- The formation of raised bubbles on a roof surface caused by trapped moisture or gases expanding under heat. This can weaken the roofing membrane and lead to leaks if not repaired.
- Boot flashing
- A pre-formed piece of flashing that seals around vent pipes or other roof penetrations. Usually made of rubber or metal, it prevents water leaks where pipes exit the roof.
- Built-in gutter
- A drainage system integrated into the roof edge to channel water away from the building. Built-in gutters reduce water damage risks while maintaining a clean roofline appearance.
- BUR (built-up roof)
- A popular multi-ply roofing membrane constructed with a waterproof base layer, multiple asphalt ply sheets, and a coating of asphalt or gravel. These mechanically-attached membranes provide excellent weather resistance and longevity due to their redundant layers.
C
- Cant strip
- A beveled (sloped-edge) wood or fiber strip installed at roof-to-wall intersections to soften sharp 90° angles. It helps flexible roofing materials bend smoothly and reduces stress that can cause cracking.
- Capillary action
- The process where water moves into tiny gaps or along narrow spaces, often against gravity, because of surface tension. In roofing, it can draw water into seams or cut edges, leading to hidden leaks and damage.
- Caulk
- A flexible sealing material applied at roof joints and edges to block water intrusion. Commonly used with flashing, termination bars, and reglets.
- Caulk tray
- A small raised channel, or “kick,” on a termination bar that holds caulk in place. This protects the sealant from UV exposure and, as a consequence, extends its life.
- Chemical welding
- A historical roofing method where seams are bonded using solvents (like xylene) that soften the membrane’s surface so it can fuse with another sheet. It has largely been replaced with heat welding due to less resilient bonds and health/safety risks.
- Clear skylight
- A skylight made of clear glazing that maximizes natural daylight but can also increase heat gain inside the building.
- Closed-cell insulation
- An insulation type with fully enclosed cells that resist water absorption. Closed-cell insulation offers superior moisture resistance, but at a higher price than open-cell insulation.
- Coating
- An elastic protective layer applied over low-slope roofing membranes (or sometimes directly to roof decks) to shield against UV rays, weathering, and water intrusion. In this way, it often extends roof lifespan and reduces surface temperature.
- Cold process application
- A method of installing roofing membranes using adhesives instead of open flame. It’s ideal for buildings with fire risk concerns and can even lower costs, since crews work under safer conditions.
- Concrete deck
- A solid structural base made from poured concrete, commonly used in commercial and industrial roofing. Concrete decks provide exceptional longevity and fire resistance.
- Condensate line
- A pipe that carries condensed water from cooling systems off the roof and into a safe drainage point. Correct routing of condensate lines prevents leaks and ponding.
- Condensate tray
- A shallow metal pan that collects condensation from HVAC systems before it drains away. If neglected, a condensate tray can rust and/or overflow, causing water damage to your property.
- Conical stack
- A vertical cone-shaped sleeve that separates hot pipes from the roof materials. In this way, it prevents heat damage to your roof system, often by using a ceramic insert to dissipate heat.
- Cool roof
- A reflective roof designed to reduce heat absorption and lower cooling costs. Often achieved with white membranes or reflective shingles, cool roofs meet ENERGY STAR standards and save you money in the long run.
- Cooling coil
- A component in HVAC units that cools air as it passes through, causing moisture to condense and drain. Roof drainage systems must manage water coming off cooling coils to prevent leaks and water damage.
- Coping
- A cap that sits on top of a parapet wall (i.e., the wall that rises past the roof edge) to block water from soaking into the wall. It’s often made of metal but can also be stone, concrete, or other materials depending on the building’s design.
- Copper
- A premium roofing metal valued for its durability and striking appearance. Copper roofing naturally develops a green patina over time, which protects the metal and enhances architectural character.
- Counter flashing
- Thin metal installed over or into a wall surface to cover and protect roof-to-wall joints, keeping water from entering at vulnerable points. These are often used with reglets and termination bars
- Crazing
- A network of fine surface cracks in a roof coating or membrane. Though often cosmetic at first, crazing may signal aging or future water infiltration risks.
- Cut Edge Sealant
- A sealant put on the exposed edges of roofing membranes to stop water from seeping in, which can lead to peeling or other damage (especially in areas with freeze-thaw cycles).
- Cut-in reglet
- A groove cut into masonry that holds flashing in place, protecting joints from water and UV damage. These are often tapped in with a mallet, then sealed for long-term leak prevention.
D
- Delamination
- The separation of layers in a roofing material, such as a membrane pulling apart from the underlying insulation. This weakens the roof and can let water in.
- Drain ball and water test
- A diagnostic test where a drain ball is inserted and water is poured in to check for proper flow. Drain ball and water tests identify clogs and leaks in roof drainage systems.
- Drain bolt
- A bolt used to secure roof drains to the deck or plumbing system. Drain bolts ensure a tight, leak-free connection between roof assemblies and drainage hardware.
- Drain sump
- A depressed area around a roof drain designed to collect and channel water efficiently. Drain sumps help prevent ponding and, consequently, improve drainage performance.
- Drainage
- The system that carries water off a roof using drains, scuppers, gutters, and downspouts. Proper drainage prevents ponding water and leaks, safeguarding your property’s structural integrity in the long-run.
- Drip edge
- An L-shaped piece of roof edge flashing that helps rainwater flow off the roof and away from the fascia boards. It prevents water from seeping under shingles or other roofing materials, protecting the roof deck from rot.
- Dump and run (emulsion-only) repair
- A quick, low-cost patching method for built-up roof systems where repairs occur without removing materials like gravel or asphalt. This can offer temporary results but often fails prematurely due to shoddy installment, meaning that Baker Roofing avoids the practice.
E
- End cap
- A metal cap that seals the open end of gutters, flashings, or panels. End caps prevent water from spilling and protect roof edges from corrosion or leaks.
- EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer)
- A black, gray or white rubber roofing membrane known for its long lifespan. It’s commonly used on flat or low-slope buildings and is typically glued down, mechanically fastened or ballasted, not heat-welded.
- EPS (expanded polystyrene)
- A rigid insulation made from expanded polystyrene foam. EPS is lightweight and moisture-resistant, making it common under many well-performing roofing membranes.
- Expansion joints
- Flexible joints built into a roof system that absorb movement from expansion and contraction. They prevent cracking and leaks at connections between different parts of your roof assembly.
F
- Fascia board
- The long board that runs below the roof edge, closing off rater ends and supporting the gutters. This structure protects the roof deck from moisture while giving the broader roof system a finished, aesthetic appearance.
- Fastener
- A hardware component, such as a screw, nail, or plate, used to secure the insulation and membrane to the roof deck.
- Fastener pull-through
- A failure where the fastener head or plate tears through the insulation or membrane due to wind uplift or inadequate fastening, compromising the roof’s integrity.
- Fermico connector
- A connector used in plumbing and roof drainage systems to link piping or drains. Fermico connectors provide reliable, watertight connections for roof drainage assemblies.
- Fiber board
- A dense, rigid insulation board made from compressed fibers. Fiber board is often used as a cover board or substrate to improve roof system performance.
- Field wrap
- An extra layer of roofing material wrapped around penetrations or seams in the field of a low-slope roof to provide added waterproofing protection. Often used in place of pitch pockets.
- Fishmouth
- A lifted or tented opening in a roof seam shaped like a fish’s mouth. It is caused by poor adhesion, trapped moisture, or membrane shrinkage, and can lead to leaks.
- Flashing
- Thin pieces of metal or other waterproof material installed at roof edges, joints, or around openings (like chimneys and vents) to keep water from seeping into the building. Roof flashing directs water away from vulnerable areas in the roof system, preventing leaks and costly water damage.
- Flat lock panels
- Flat interlocking metal panels secured together to form a continuous waterproof surface. Flat lock panels are often used on steep slope roofs and walls for a sleek, modern appearance.
- Freeze-thaw climate
- A climate where temperatures often cycle above and below freezing, causing water to freeze and expand, then melt and contract. This repeated action can damage roofing materials over time.
- Full metal insert
- A complete metal replacement section used to repair deteriorated roof components. Full metal inserts restore structural strength and extend roof lifespan.
- Fully adhered attachment
- A roofing installation method where insulation and/or membrane is glued directly to the layer below using adhesives, creating a strong bond without mechanical fasteners or ballast. This practice sports a long lifespan but can be more costly than mechanical attachment and is effective mainly in warmer environments.
G
- Galvanized metal
- A steel sheet that has been coated with zinc to resist rust and corrosion. Galvanized metal is commonly used in roof trays and flashing.
- Garden roof
- A sustainable roof design that incorporates vegetation over a waterproofing system. Garden roofs improve energy efficiency and reduce stormwater runoff, often justifying high installation costs.
- Granule cap modified bitumen sheet
- A top-layer modified bitumen sheet coated with mineral granules that provide enhanced resistance against UV radiation, reducing energy costs for commercial buildings.
- Gravel stop
- A type of metal roof edging used on built-up roofs with gravel surfacing. It keeps the gravel in place during storms and heavy rain while also helping guide water into the drainage system.
- Green roof system
- A layered roofing system that supports vegetation, designed to improve stormwater management and provide insulation.
H
- Headlap
- The portion of a roof shingle that overlaps the course below to keep water from backing up under the roofing. Proper headlap is crucial to prevent leaks and extend the roof’s service life.
- Heat welded thermoplastic membrane
- A type of white single-ply roofing membrane that’s sealed at the seams using hot air, creating a waterproof layer over the roof. It’s commonly used on flat or low-slope commercial buildings, since these roofs need to most protection from water infiltration.
- Heat welding
- A method of fusing thermoplastic roofing membranes (like TPO or PVC) at the seams using hot air, creating a continuous, watertight bond without open flame. It is the primary method for binding membranes today because of its greater strength and superior safety considerations compared to chemical welding.
- High load roof plate
- A reinforced fastening plate designed to withstand greater wind uplift forces and stress, typically used in high-wind zones or on taller buildings to prevent fastener pull-through.
- Hurricane clip
- A metal connector that ties roof rafters or trusses to wall framing, increasing wind resistance. Common in coastal and hurricane-prone regions, they help prevent roof uplift during storms.
I
- Ice and water shield
- A waterproof membrane installed along roof edges and valleys to prevent leaks from ice dams or wind-driven rain. Ice and water shield adds extra protection in vulnerable areas.
- Ice belt
- A strip of metal roofing installed along eaves to prevent ice damming. It helps shed snow and ice while reducing water backup beneath shingles.
- Ice dam
- A buildup of ice along the roof edge caused by melting and refreezing snow. Ice dams block drainage and can force water back under shingles, causing leaks and water damage.
- Infrared camera
- A thermal imaging tool used to detect hidden moisture or leaks under roofing membranes. Infrared cameras help identify problem areas without destructive testing.
- Insulation
- A layer (or multiple layers) in the roofing system that helps regulate building temperature by reducing heat loss or gain. It’s typically installed above the roof deck and below the membrane.
J
K
- Keyway
- The vertical slot or gap between shingles where water flows off the roof. Straight, even keyways indicate a well-installed shingle roof.
L
- Lap sealant
- A sealant applied over the seams of certain roofing membranes, especially glued seams, to provide temporary waterproofing and protect the joint from weather until a more permanent solution is in place.
- Lightning protection
- A system of rods and cables that directs lightning safely to the ground. It protects roofs and buildings from both lightning strikes and the resulting fire damage.
- Lightweight deck
- A roof deck built with lightweight materials such as gypsum or lightweight concrete. Lightweight decks reduce structural load while still offering durability and fire resistance.
- Lock strip
- A metal strip that holds roof edge metal securely in place so it won’t lift in high winds. It’s usually made thicker than the main edge metal and fastened in a staggered pattern for extra strength.
- Low slope roof
- A roof with a shallow incline, usually 3:12 pitch or less. Low slope roofs require membranes or built-up roofing to remain watertight.
M
- Mechanical attachment
- A method of securing a roof’s insulation or membrane using fasteners like screws and plates instead of adhesives or ballast. While offering a shorter lifespan than fully adhered attachment, this practice is often cheaper and can be used across a wider range of temperatures.
- Mechanically seamed panel
- A metal roofing panel joined using mechanical seaming tools to create a tight, watertight connection. Mechanically seamed panels provide superior resistance to wind uplift and water infiltration.
- Membrane
- The waterproof layer in a roofing system that protects the building from water intrusion and reflects sunlight, lowering energy costs. It’s usually the top layer and can be made of materials like TPO, PVC, EPDM, or modified bitumen.
- Membrane compatibility
- The ability of different roofing membranes to bond or work together without causing damage or failure. Some types, like TPO and PVC, are chemically incompatible and cannot be welded to each other.
- Metal roof
- A roofing system made of metal panels such as steel, aluminum, or copper. Metal roofs are energy-efficient due to their reflectivity, and they can be installed on both steep and low slopes.
- Miter
- The angled joint where two pieces of roof edging or parapet wall (i.e., the wall that rises past the roof edge) covering meet at a corner. It creates a smooth, sealed connection that prevents leaks at roof corners, preventing the need for a downspout at every corner of your building.
- Modified bitumen
- A type of flat or low-slope roofing membrane made by adding rubber or plastic modifiers to asphalt, then reinforcing it with fiberglass. With a 20-year lifespan, this system sports high resilience against debris, holds strong against water infiltration and reduces energy costs through UV resistance, making it a popular option for commercial roofs (while being safer for roofers to install than BUR systems).
- Moisture anomaly
- An irregular moisture reading detected within roofing insulation or materials. Moisture anomalies often indicate leaks, ponding water, helping determine which types of repairs must be done.
- Monolithic sheet integrity
- The continuous, seamless nature of a roof membrane or coating that prevents water infiltration. Monolithic sheet integrity ensures complete waterproofing across the roof surface.
- Multi-ply membrane system
- A roof system built with multiple layers of membranes or asphalt for added strength and redundancy. Multi-ply membranes provide enhanced durability and waterproofing.
N
- Nail base steep slope roof
- An insulation and decking system combining a nail base board with rigid foam insulation. Nail base steep slope roofs provide both thermal performance and a secure fastening surface for shingles or panels.
- Neoprene rubber
- A synthetic rubber commonly used to make roofing expansion joints. Neoprene is flexible and resistant to weathering, making it perfect to protect these high-risk areas.
- Nominal thickness
- The labeled or advertised thickness of a roofing membrane, used for broad classification purposes. It may not align perfectly with the actual thickness of the membrane but is precise enough most of the time.
- Non-reinforced EPDM
- A flexible EPDM (rubber) roofing membrane made without a polyester layer, typically used in fully adhered systems or for flashing details.
- NRCA
- The National Roofing Contractors Association, a leading trade organization that sets roofing industry standards and technical guidelines. Much of the information in this glossary has been fact-checked using their resources.
- NTB fastener
- A heavy-duty fastener designed for securing roofing systems to their underlying decks. NTB fasteners provide strong pull-out resistance and long-term stability for roof assemblies.
O
- Oil canning
- The waviness or buckling that appears on flat metal roofing panels, often from thermal expansion or insulation stress. It usually doesn’t affect performance, but some may think its visually unappealing (https://sheffieldmetals.com/learning-center/what-is-oil-canning/).
- Opaque skylight
- A skylight made with diffused or tinted glazing that softens light transmission and reduces interior heat buildup.
- Open-cell insulation
- An insulation type with open cells that allow airflow and vapor movement. Open-cell insulation is lightweight and provides cost-effective thermal performance.
- OSB steep slope roof
- A roofing system in which oriented strand board (OSB) is used as the deck for steep slope roofs. OSB is an engineered wood product that provides a cost-effective base for shingles, tiles, or metal roofing.
- Overburden
- Materials placed on top of a roof membrane, such as pavers or green roof vegetation. Overburden protects the roof but requires specialized inspection and repair techniques to ensure the load never becomes too heavy to bear for your roof assembly.
P
- P-trap
- A plumbing trap with a U-shaped section that holds water to block air from entering the condensate line, allowing wastewater to efficiently exit your home.
- Parapet wall
- The short wall that extends above the roofline, often around the roof’s edge, to provide safety, block wind, and in some cases help manage water drainage. In roofing, parapet walls are usually capped with coping to keep water from seeping into the wall structure.
- Patina
- The natural surface layer that forms on metals like copper and zinc as they oxidize over time. Patina protects the metal from further corrosion and gives roofs a unique aged appearance that boosts curb appeal.
- Peel-and-stick installation
- A self-adhering roofing membrane or accessory that is applied by peeling off a backing and sticking it to the surface. Peel-and-stick installation speeds up work and reduces the need for hot asphalt or adhesives.
- Perforated steel deck
- A steel roof deck with perforations to allow lightweight concrete or insulation fill. Perforated steel decks provide enhanced fire resistance and thermal performance.
- Pillow-outs
- Localized roof membrane bubbles or raised areas caused by trapped moisture or poor installation. Pillow-outs can weaken roofing systems and lead to leaks if not addressed.
- Pitch pocket
- A pre-engineered metal flashing around irregular roof penetrations, filled with grout or sealant to block leaks. It replaces older coal-tar-filled pockets with a cleaner and more durable solution.
- Plywood steep slope roof
- Plywood sheets installed as the decking layer for steep slope roofs. Plywood offers strong, stable support for roofing materials and fasteners, making it a common choice in residential construction.
- Polyurethane coating
- A strong roof coating known for impact and chemical resistance. It is often used in high-traffic areas or on industrial buildings exposed to harsh conditions.
- Ponding water
- The collection of standing water on flat or low-slope roofs due to poor drainage. Ponding water can damage roofing membranes and encourage algae growth, shortening your roof’s service life.
- Primary water egress
- The main drainage path at roof level, such as roof drains or gutters, that carries water away during normal rainfall.
- PVC (polyvinyl chloride)
- A high-end type of heat-welded thermoplastic membrane that stands up well to oils and chemicals. It’s ideal for restaurants or industrial buildings for its extra resistance, though it usually costs more.
Q
R
- R panels
- Exposed fastener metal panels shaped in an “R” profile for added strength. R panels are common in commercial buildings where cost-efficiency is a priority, such as warehouses and manufacturing plants.
- Rail curbs
- Permanent framed bases that support and elevate rooftop equipment like HVAC units. Rail curbs are flashed into the roof system for durability and a watertight seal.
- Reinforced EPDM
- An EPDM (rubber) roofing membrane that includes an embedded layer of polyester to increase strength, resist tearing, and allow for mechanical attachment without stretching out of shape. This material is required for all mechanical membrane attachment.
- Retention
- The ability of flashing or sealant to stay fixed in place and resist being pulled out by wind, water, or thermal movement. Effective retention is the best way to weatherproof your property in the long term.
- Retro drain
- A roof drain retrofit designed to fit inside existing piping without major demolition. Retro drains are cost-effective solutions for improving drainage on older roofs.
- Ridge vent
- A continuous vent installed along the roof peak that lets hot air escape from the attic. When paired with soffit vents, it provides balanced airflow and, consequently, extends roof life.
- Ring mechanism/mercury switch
- A release device in a smoke hatch that opens the lid when high heat is detected, preventing damage from fire and smoke.
- Roof assembly
- The complete layered structure of a roof, including deck, insulation, membrane, and flashing. Each layer works together to provide waterproofing and energy efficiency by sealing out rainwater and reflecting UV rays, respectively.
- Roof clip
- A small fastening component that secures metal roofing panels to the deck or substrate. Roof clips allow for thermal expansion and contraction, reducing stress on the panels and preventing structural damage.
- Roof deck
- The basic load-bearing structure of a roof, typically made of steel, wood, or concrete. Usually, insulation and a waterproof membrane are placed on top of it, forming a full roof system. This foundation is also known as a roof sheathing or substrate.
- Roof drain
- A plumbing fixture installed at roof level to collect and channel water into interior drainage pipes. Roof drains are common on flat or low-slope roofs since water does not easily drain from these systems naturally.
- Roof gridding
- A systematic roof inspection process that divides the roof into sections for testing. Roof gridding ensures thorough moisture surveys and accurate condition assessments.
- Roof patch
- A repair applied to damaged roof areas to restore waterproofing. These work best for small areas with minor damage, since they require the underlying roof deck to still function properly.
- Roof plate
- A flat metal or plastic disc used with screws that acts as a fastener, helping secure roofing insulation or membranes to the deck. This distributes pressure across the deck, lessening the likelihood of fastener pull-through.
- Roof slope
- The angle or steepness of a roof surface, measured as a ratio of rise over run. Roof slope affects which roofing materials (i.e., shingles vs. metal) and drainage options are available to you.
- Roof underlayment
- A protective layer installed under shingles or metal roofing that provides an extra barrier against water infiltration. It acts as the first line of defense in severe weather and extends the roof’s lifespan.
- Roof vent
- A general term for any ventilation device that allows airflow in and out of the attic or roof assembly. Proper roof venting reduces heat buildup and ice damming, preventing structural damage to your roof system.
- Roof-to-roof assembly
- The area where two roof sections meet, which must be sealed to handle movement and stop leaks. Expansion joints or flashing are often used here.
- Roof-to-wall assembly
- The section of the roof where it ties into an exterior wall. Proper flashing and sealing are critical here to prevent leaks, since the joints in there areas are especially vulnerable to water infiltration.
- Roofing mop
- A large, specialized mop used to spread hot asphalt evenly during the installation of built-up roofing systems. Consistent mopping helps ensure full adhesion and a watertight seal, making the roofing system more resilient to weathering and water infiltration.
S
- Sacrificial membrane
- An extra layer of roofing membrane placed under rooftop equipment or sleepers to absorb wear and tear. It protects the main roof membrane from punctures and damage.
- Screw and glue attachment
- A hybrid roofing attachment method combining mechanical fasteners (screws) and adhesives to secure both insulation and membrane; typically used in high-wind or hurricane-prone areas for extra hold.
- Scuff and squirt patching
- A quick patching method where small roof punctures or splits are scuffed and filled with sealant. Scuff and squirt patching is often temporary and best for emergency leak control, as it lacks long-term durability.
- Scupper
- An opening through the parapet or roof edge that allows water to drain directly off a flat or low-slope roof. Scuppers act as either primary or secondary drainage.
- Seam
- The raised joint where two roofing panels connect. Seams are engineered to resist water penetration and are a defining feature of metal roof performance.
- Seam failure
- The separation of roofing membrane seams due to age, poor installation, or stress from movement. It creates a primary pathway for water infiltration, making your roof assembly vulnerable to mold and leaks.
- Seam tape
- An adhesive tape used to bond overlaps in single-ply membranes such as EPDM, TPO, or PVC. It ensures watertight seams without heat welding or liquid adhesives.
- Secondary water egress
- An overflow drainage path, such as scuppers or secondary drains, positioned above the primary system to prevent water buildup if the main drain fails.
- Shingle roof
- A roof covered with overlapping shingles, typically asphalt, installed on sloped surfaces. Shingle roofs are more common in residential construction, but they can be used in steep-slope commercial projects
- Shrink rate
- The percentage a roofing membrane contracts over its service life. As it shrinks, it can pull away from seams or flashing points, loosening the seal, and cause bridging, where the membrane arches upward instead of lying flat. Both of these can create cracks and leaks in your roof.
- Silicone coating
- A highly durable liquid-applied roof coating that resists ponding water and weathering. It is ideal for restoring aging single-ply and metal roofs.
- Single-ply membrane system
- A roofing system that uses a single layer of synthetic membrane, such as TPO, PVC, or EPDM. Single-ply membranes are cost-effective, flexible, and highly resistant to UV and weathering.
- Slate roof
- A premium roofing material made of natural stone slabs cut into shingles. Slate roofs are durable and fireproof, and many roofing experts prize them for their elegant appearance and longevity.
- Sleeper
- A short wood or metal support placed on a roof to hold equipment temporarily. Floating sleepers rest on the roof surface and should have a protective layer underneath to prevent damage.
- Smoke hatch
- A hatch built into the roof that opens during a fire to release smoke and heat. Smoke hatches, also called scuttle hatches, help protect the roof structure and aid firefighter access.
- Smooth modified bitumen sheet
- A type of modified bitumen roofing sheet with a smooth, ungranulated surface; typically used as a base layer or in systems where additional UV protection (like coatings) will be applied later.
- Snap-line
- A guideline snapped across a roof deck to keep shingles aligned during installation. Snap-lines help ensure consistent installation and professional appearance, enhancing your roof’s functionality and curb appeal.
- Snow guard
- A device installed on sloped metal roofs to hold back snow and ice, preventing dangerous slides. They protect gutters, landscaping, and pedestrian areas below.
- Soffit vent
- An intake vent located beneath roof eaves that draws in cooler outside air. Used with ridge or gable vents, it improves attic ventilation and energy efficiency.
- Soldered joint
- A watertight joint created by soldering metal roofing or flashing components together. Soldered joints provide long-lasting, durable seals against water infiltration.
- Stainless steel
- A highly durable, corrosion-resistant metal often used for flashing and specialty roof systems. Stainless steel provides long-term protection in harsh environments, especially where exposure to chemicals or salt is common.
- Standard roof plate
- A basic fastening plate used to secure insulation or membrane in typical roofing conditions where extreme uplift resistance isn’t required. It distributes pressure but is less robust than a high load plate.
- Standing seam metal roof
- A type of metal roofing system where panels are joined with raised seams that lock together above the water line. Standing seam metal roofs are highly durable and watertight, making them ideal for both steep and low slopes.
- Steel deck
- A corrugated steel platform used as the structural base for flat or low slope roofs. Steel decking supports insulation and membranes while providing strength for commercial and industrial buildings.
- Steep slope roof
- A roof with a steep incline, usually above 3:12 pitch. Steep slope roofs shed water quickly and are often covered with shingles, slate, or tile.
- Structural low slope metal roof
- A load-bearing metal roof system built for low slope applications, often used on commercial buildings. Structural low slope metal roofs can support heavy loads and span longer distances without additional decking.
- Surface mount counter flashing
- A flashing method where metal is fastened directly to the face of masonry instead of cutting a reglet. Faster to install but may rely more on caulk for long-term waterproofing, making it most appropriate for budget-conscious projects.
- Synthetic underlayment
- A modern replacement for felt paper made from polypropylene or polyethylene. It is tear-resistant and offers superior water protection, making it popular in both residential and commercial roofing.
T
- Tapered insulation boards
- Sloped insulation panels installed to create positive drainage on flat roofs. Tapered insulation boards help prevent ponding water and, as a consequence, extend roof system life.
- Termination bar (term bar)
- A metal bar fastened to the wall surface to clamp and seal the top edge of flashing. It creates a watertight termination line and often includes trays, or “kicks,” for sealant.
- Terne-coated stainless steel
- A stainless steel panel coated with a protective terne coating. Terne-coated stainless combines the strength of steel with extra corrosion resistance, making it suitable for long-lasting roof systems.
- Terracotta/camelback coping
- A traditional clay cap used on older brick parapet walls. It’s set in mortar and sealed at the joints to keep water out and is often preserved on historic buildings.
- Thermal bridging
- The transfer of heat through a material (like a fastener or your building’s structure) that bypasses the roof’s insulation, causing energy loss and/or cold spots inside the building. This process is worse in cold environments, and it can be mitigated by minimizing gaps in installation and installing thermal break materials over fasteners.
- Three-tab shingle
- An asphalt shingle style with three cut-out tabs that create a uniform, flat look. Three-tab shingles are affordable but less durable than their architectural counterparts.
- Through-wall flashing
- A barrier installed inside walls that directs water toward weep holes for proper drainage. Through-wall flashing is often made of copper or stainless steel, and it’s crucial to prevent moisture infiltration inside your property.
- Tile roof
- A roof covering made of clay or concrete tiles that overlap to shed water. Tile roofs are heavy but long-lasting and provide a distinctive architectural look, enhancing your property’s durability and curb appeal
- Torch down application
- A roofing installation method where modified bitumen sheets are heated with a propane torch to melt the material’s underside and bond it to the roof, creating a durable, watertight seal; also known as torch-on or torch-applied installation.
- TPO (thermoplastic olefin)
- A durable type of heat-welded thermoplastic membrane that reflects sunlight and helps reduce cooling costs. It’s a cost-effective option for flat roofs but may not perform as well as PVC in harsh environments.
- Troxler
- A nuclear density gauge used in roofing to measure moisture levels in insulation and substrates. Troxler testing provides accurate data for roof condition assessments, making them a useful tool in professional roof inspections.
U
- UL fire rating
- A classification that measures how roofing materials resist fire spread. Ratings such as Class A, B, or C are required by building codes for different roof systems.
- Uncured EPDM
- An EPDM (rubber) material that has not been fully hardened through heat and chemical treatment, keeping it soft, stretchy, and able to conform to irregular shapes. It’s mainly used for flashing details where flexibility is more important than long-term shape retention.
- UV stability
- A roofing material’s ability to resist damage and degradation from prolonged exposure to ultraviolet sunlight. Low UV stability can lead to brittleness, color fading, and eventual surface cracking.
V
- Vapor barrier
- A moisture-blocking material placed within the roof assembly to stop vapor from passing through insulation and condensing inside the structure. It is especially critical in cold climates and commercial flat roofs.
- Vent pipes
- Pipes that extend through the roof to provide airflow for plumbing drains, regulating their air pressure and ensuring they work correctly. Proper venting prevents sink and toilet water leaks, making them a must-have for any commercial property.
W
- Walk pad
- A reinforced walkway area on the roof made of thicker membrane or pads. Walk pads protect the roof from foot traffic damage, especially around HVAC units.
- Warranty
- A written guarantee from the manufacturer or contractor that the roofing work or materials will perform as promised for a set period, with the cost of repairs or replacements covered if problems occur under specified conditions.
- Water testing
- A diagnostic method used to locate roof leaks by intentionally applying water to specific areas and observing where it enters the building or roof assembly. This is often used before a crew finishes a repair job in order to ensure no mistakes have been made.
- Waterhead
- A box-shaped component that connects scuppers to downspouts, helping control the flow of roof runoff and avoiding unsightly cascades. Waterheads are also called conductor heads or rainheads.
- Weep hole
- A small opening at the base of a wall that allows trapped moisture to drain out. Clear weep holes prevent leaks and water buildup inside brick walls and windows.
- Wind scouring
- The erosion or displacement of loose ballast caused by strong winds. It is a concern for ballasted roof systems, as it can expose membranes to damage.
X
Y
Z
- Zinc
- A versatile roofing metal known for its durability and ability to develop a protective patina. Zinc roofing is self-healing against scratches and can last over a century with minimal maintenance.