Common Roofing Terms Every Homeowner Should Know

When it comes time to repair or replace your roof, you might hear contractors using words that sound like a foreign language. Terms like “flashing,” “ridge vent,” or “soffit” get tossed around, and while they make sense to roofers, they can leave homeowners feeling confused. At Armor Roofing, we believe in keeping our customers informed so they feel confident in every decision.

To help you out, here’s a quick guide to some of the most common roofing terms you’re likely to hear:

1. Shingles

Shingles are the most visible part of your roof- the pieces that create a protective barrier against the elements. Asphalt shingles are the most common in Virginia, thanks to their affordability and durability, but other options include metal, slate, and wood.

Why it matters: Shingles are your roof’s first line of defense. Their quality and installation directly affect how long your roof lasts.

2. Decking (or Sheathing)

This is the layer of wood (usually plywood or OSB) that forms the base of your roof. Shingles are installed on top of the decking.

Why it matters: If decking is rotted or damaged, it must be replaced before new shingles can go on.

3. Underlayment

The underlayment is a waterproof barrier placed between the decking and shingles. It provides extra protection against leaks.

Why it matters: Even the best shingles can’t stop all moisture. Underlayment adds a backup layer of defense.

4. Flashing

Flashing is thin metal material installed around roof features like chimneys, skylights, or valleys. Its job is to direct water away from vulnerable spots.

Why it matters: Improper flashing is one of the most common causes of roof leaks.

Read more about flashing here.

5. Ridge & Ridge Vent

The ridge is the highest point on a roof, where two slopes meet. A ridge vent is a vent installed along this line to allow hot, humid air to escape from your attic.

Why it matters: Without proper ventilation, your roof can overheat, leading to higher energy bills and a shorter roof lifespan.

6. Eaves, Soffit, and Fascia

• Eaves – the lower edge of the roof that overhangs the walls.

• Soffit – the underside of that overhang, often ventilated to let air into the attic.

• Fascia – the vertical finishing edge where gutters are attached.

Why it matters: These elements not only protect your home from water but also play a big role in ventilation and curb appeal.

7. Valley

A valley is where two roof slopes meet, forming a “V” shape that channels water down to the gutters.

Why it matters: Valleys are water-heavy areas of your roof and need strong protection (often with specialized shingles or extra flashing).

8. Gutters & Downspouts

While not technically part of the roof, gutters and downspouts are essential for directing water away from your home’s foundation.

Why it matters: A roof without a proper drainage system can lead to water pooling, leaks, and costly structural damage.

9. Drip Edge

This is a metal strip installed along the edges of the roof. It helps water run off cleanly into the gutters instead of seeping under shingles.

Why it matters: A simple but critical detail that protects against water damage.

10. Pitch (or Slope)

Pitch refers to how steep your roof is, usually measured as the rise over run (for example, a 6/12 pitch means the roof rises 6 inches for every 12 inches across).

Why it matters: Pitch affects everything from material choice to installation method and even how quickly your roof sheds water.

Why Knowing These Terms Helps You

Understanding these basic roofing terms can make conversations with your contractor much smoother. Instead of feeling overwhelmed, you’ll know what’s being discussed and why certain repairs or upgrades are recommended.

At Armor Roofing, our goal is to educate, not confuse. We walk homeowners through every step of the process, explain the materials we use, and make sure you feel confident about your investment.

Final Thoughts

Your roof is one of the most important parts of your home- it protects everything underneath it. The more you understand about how it works, the easier it is to spot issues early and make informed decisions about repairs or replacements.

If you have questions about your roof, or if you’d like a free inspection, our team at Armor Roofing is here to help. We treat your home with the same care we would our own.

👉 Call us today at 757-898-3702 or request a free estimate online to get started.

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