Abutment
In roofing, abutment refers to the point where a sloping roof meets a vertical surface, such as a wall or a chimney. Abutments are typically found at the edges of a roof, where the roof plane meets the walls of a building. Proper sealing and flashing of abutments is important to prevent water from penetrating the roof and causing damage to the building. Abutments require special attention during the installation process, as they are vulnerable to leaks and other forms of damage. Proper installation and maintenance of flashing and other protective materials around abutments is essential to maintaining the integrity of a roofing system and preventing costly repairs.
Barge board
A barge board is a wooden (or uPVC) board fixed along the edge of a gable. Bargeboard or rake fascia is a board fastened to each projecting gable of a roof to give it strength and protection, and to conceal the otherwise exposed end grain of the horizontal timbers or purlins of the roof.
Dormer roofs
A dormer is a structural element that protrudes from a sloping roof, typically containing a window. It allows for additional headroom and natural light in the upper level of a building. Dormers can be found in various styles, including gabled, hipped, shed, and eyebrow. They are commonly used in residential and commercial construction, particularly in attic conversions and additions.
Many people who extend into their loft space use a dormer window, which protrudes from the roof, to give added head height and space in their new room.
This can be a very cost effective way of maximising space, but may require planning permission.
Down pipe
Pipe which takes water away from guttering to drains. Sometimes referred to as a downspout.
Drip edge
Drip edge is a metal flashing that is installed at the edges of the roof to help control the flow of water away from the fascia and to protect the underlying roofing components. Drip edge overhangs the sides of the roof and has a small metal flange that is bent away from the fascia.
Timber strips which form the edges of flat roofs or bay roofs.
They overlap the edge of the roof and the roofing felt is folded over them.
As the name would imply - the purpose of these is to allow edges for 'drips' (rainwater).
Eaves
In architecture, eaves refer to the part of a roof that overhangs the walls of a building. They are the edges of the roof that extend beyond the exterior walls and are designed to provide shade and protection from the elements. Eaves can vary in size and shape, depending on the style of the roof and the climate in which the building is located. In some cases, the eaves may be very small or nonexistent, while in other cases they may be quite large and prominent. Eaves also play an important role in the drainage of rainwater from the roof, as they allow water to drip away from the walls of the building and onto the ground below.
EPDM
One of the newest roofing materials on the market, EPDM is a synthetic rubber and is often used to cover flat roofs.
It is highly waterproof and has a much longer lifespan than traditional flat roofing products like felt.
Fascias
On many homes, there is a panel of wood between the roof and the wall. These are called the fascias, and often are used for fixing guttering onto.
One of the most popular home improvement jobs is to have wooden fascias replaced with uPVC, which is longer lasting and requires little maintenance.
Flat roof
Strictly speaking flat roofs are not completely flat and do have some sort of gentle slope to them in order for rainwater to be able to come away from the roof in a proper manner.
The definition of a Flat roof is 1-10 degrees but can go up to 12.5 degrees.
Flat roofs tend to be covered with either bitumen or a built up felt base or even rubberised covering.
Flat roofs which are covered by 'torch-on' felt are literally burnt onto the roof with a kind of blow lamp used by the roofers.
If you use a roofer to carry out torch on roofing to your property check that their public liability insurance covers this type of work as tradesmen insurance policies for jobs involving heat tend to be higher and a bit more specialised.
You might find you have a roofer but not a roofer who is covered to carry out work with heat.
Check this out property.
Many homeowners are increasingly drawn to flat roofs because they are considered one of the most energy-efficient options, according to Energy Star. Additionally, consumers may save some cost on the initial roof installation because the surface area of a flat roof is less than that of a sloped roof.
Gable
In roofing terms in the UK, a gable refers to the triangular portion of a wall that sits between the two sloping sides of a roof. It is typically formed by the intersection of two sloping roof planes and is commonly found at the end of a pitched roof. The gable wall is usually made of masonry or timber framing and is often finished with siding, brickwork, or stucco. The shape of the gable can vary depending on the style of the roof, with some gables featuring a simple triangular shape, while others may have more complex designs with multiple slopes and decorative elements. The gable plays an important role in the overall appearance of a building and can have a significant impact on its curb appeal.
Hip
A hip refers to the external angle formed by the intersection of two sloping roof planes. The roof hip is typically located at the ridge line of the roof, where two roof planes meet at an angle that is less than 180 degrees. Hips are commonly found on roofs with a gable design, where two roof planes slope downward from a central ridge line. Hips can also be found on roofs with a hip design, where all four roof planes slope downward from a central point. Hips are important structural elements of a roof, as they help to distribute the weight of the roof evenly and provide support and stability to the overall structure. Proper installation and maintenance of hips is essential to ensuring the longevity and effectiveness of a roofing system.
Hip Iron
In roofing, a hip iron is a metal bracket or plate that is used to secure the hip of a roof. The hip is the angled line where two sloping roof planes meet at the corner of a roof. The hip iron is typically installed over the underlayment and is used to secure the roofing material, such as tiles or shingles, at the hip. The hip iron is usually made of galvanized steel or another durable metal, and is designed to provide additional support and stability to the roof at the hip. The use of hip irons can help to prevent damage to the roof caused by high winds, heavy rain, and other weather conditions. Proper installation of hip irons is essential to ensuring the long-term durability and effectiveness of a roofing system.
Lead valley
The roof valley is that part of the roof where two sloping roofs meet together, where rainwater has to be channelled downwards into a gutter. These roof valleys have to deal with a lot of water during heavy rainfall and are prone to leaking. Roof valleys are usually made from lead, concrete tiles or fibreglass.
The lead valley on a roof is the point at which two roofs meet in a dipped area.
Lead is placed here as a form of 'bridge' between two sections of roofing tiles or slates and prevents roofs leaking.
Lead is expensive and varies dramatically in price according to the market.
The price of lead can change on a daily basis from roofing suppliers so watch out for this and if you are looking for quotes to replace a lead valley hang on if you can for times when lead is not so expensive.
Mortar
In general construction, mortar is a mixture of sand, water, and a binding agent such as cement or lime that is used to hold building materials together. Mortar is commonly used in masonry applications, such as for laying bricks, blocks, and stone, as well as for plastering walls and ceilings. The sand used in mortar is typically fine and is mixed with the binding agent and water to create a workable paste that can be applied to surfaces. The binding agent provides the strength and durability to the mixture, while the sand provides the bulk and workability. Different types of mortar can be used for different applications, depending on the specific properties required for the project, such as strength, flexibility, and water resistance. Mortar is an important component of many construction projects, as it helps to create a solid, stable structure that can withstand the forces of nature and the test of time.
Parapet
A parapet is a low wall or railing that extends above the roofline of a building. Parapets are typically found on flat or low-slope roofs and are used to provide a barrier to prevent people from falling off the edge of the roof. Parapets can also be used for aesthetic purposes, to conceal rooftop equipment or to provide a visual transition between the roof and the exterior walls of a building. Parapets are typically constructed of masonry, brick, or other durable materials that are capable of withstanding the elements. A properly constructed parapet includes a waterproof membrane that is installed beneath the parapet to prevent water from seeping into the roof structure. Parapets are an important component of a roofing system, as they help to ensure the safety of building occupants and protect the roof from damage caused by weather and other environmental factors.
Pitch roof
A pitch roof is a roof which has a slope. i.e. It has a pitch to it rather than being a flat roof.
Even flat roofs incidentally are not completely flat and have some gentle incline on them in order for rainwater to come away from them).
However, pitch roofs have a very definite slope to them and hence they have a 'pitch'.
The pitch of a roof can vary from property to property. Roof pitch (or slope) tells you how many inches the roof rises for every 12 inches in depth. An Example of a roof pitch would be a “6/12 pitch” which means that the roof rises 6 ” for every 12″ inward towards the peak (or ridge). The most commonly used roof pitches fall in a range between 4/12 and 9/12. Pitches lower than 4/12 have a slight angle, and they are defined as low-slope roofs.
Purlin
In roofing terms, a purlin is a horizontal structural member that runs perpendicular to the roof rafters or trusses. It is typically made of wood, steel, or other materials and is used to support the roof covering and transfer its weight to the load-bearing walls or columns below. Purlins are commonly used in metal roofing systems, where they provide additional strength and support to the roof panels. They are also used in traditional timber-framed roofs, where they help to distribute the weight of the roof evenly and prevent sagging or bowing. The size and spacing of purlins depend on the type of roofing material, the slope of the roof, and the load capacity of the building structure.
Rafter
In construction and roofing, a rafter is a structural member that runs from the ridge of a pitched roof down to the eaves. Rafters are typically made of wood or metal and are spaced at regular intervals across the roof, forming the framework to support the roof deck and the roofing materials. The slope or pitch of the roof is determined by the length and angle of the rafters. The rafters are typically connected to the ridge beam at the top and the wall plates or beams at the bottom. The spacing and size of the rafters depend on the span of the roof and the weight of the roofing materials, as well as the local building codes and design considerations. Rafters are an essential component of a pitched roof, and they play a crucial role in supporting the weight of the roof and transferring it to the load-bearing walls of the building.
Raking cut
In roofing, a raking cut refers to a diagonal cut made in roofing materials such as shingles or tiles along the slope of a roof. Raking cuts are made to fit the roofing material around the edges of a roof, where the roof meets a gable or other sloping feature, such as a dormer or chimney. The purpose of a raking cut is to create a tight and secure fit that helps to prevent water from penetrating the roof at the edges. Raking cuts can be made using a variety of tools, such as a utility knife or a roofing hatchet, and require skill and precision to ensure a proper fit. Proper installation of roofing materials with raking cuts is important to maintaining the integrity of the roofing system and preventing leaks and other damage.
Ridge
A ridge is the highest point on a roof where two sloping roof planes meet. The ridge runs along the horizontal line at the top of the roof, where the two sides of the roof meet at an angle. The purpose of a ridge is to provide a peak for the roof, and to create a natural flow of air that helps to ventilate the roof space. The ridge is typically covered by a ridge cap or ridge tile, which is a special type of roofing material that is shaped to fit over the top of the ridge and provide a weatherproof seal. The ridge cap or tile is installed over a layer of roofing underlayment and is typically nailed or screwed into place. The ridge is an important component of a roofing system, as it helps to provide structural stability to the roof and protect it from the elements. Proper installation and maintenance of the ridge and the ridge cap or tile are essential to ensuring the long-term durability and effectiveness of a roofing system.
Roofing felt
Roofing felt, also known as tar paper, is a type of material used in roofing to provide an additional layer of protection between the roof deck and the shingles or other roofing material. It is typically made from a combination of cellulose fibers, asphalt, and other materials. Roofing felt is available in rolls, and it is installed by rolling out the material over the roof deck and securing it with roofing nails or staples. It serves as a moisture barrier and helps prevent leaks by providing an extra layer of protection against wind-driven rain and other weather conditions. It is commonly used in residential and commercial roofing applications.
Roofing flashings
In roofing terms, flashing is the name given to the metal parts of the roof which seal junctions between tiles or slates and the walls or other parts of the roof.
Most roofs will have lead flashings around the chimney, for example.
Lead is most commonly used for flashings in the UK but other materials such as zinc are often used too.
Roofing slates
Roof slates are pieces of slate which cover roofs. Slate is one of the longest-lasting roof materials, sometimes lasting more than 100 years. It is a natural rock that is mined and cut to become a form of 'shingle' (a thin, tapered piece of material used as a roof and wall covering). Slate roof tiles are made of 100% natural stone, and have a naturally cleft surface with beautiful color variation ranging over the entire roof. Slate roof tiles are also extremely durable, outlasting the buildings they are installed on in some cases. The longevity of slate is key to its value in the eyes of homeowners. After all, roofing can be expensive. Slate is one of the few roofing options that doesn't need to be replaced within the span of a lifetime. In most environments, slate roof tiles will last at least 125 years, although a typical slate roof would be in situ for between 80 and 100 years, but if maintained well could last much longer, and sometimes as long as 200 years. Slate roofs are mostly fire resistant too. Because roof slates rarely have to be replaced, the environmental footprint of a roof of this type is also a major benefit. Slate roofs can be more expensive than tile roofs but the longevity of a slate roof can mean you get much more value in the longer term than that from a tile roof.
There are many different types of roofing slates of varying sizes and quality.
Roofing tiles
Pieces of tile which cover roofs.
There is not much that can be said about these.
There are many different types of roofing tiles of varying sizes and quality.
Saddle
A saddle is a type of flashing that is used to waterproof the area where two roof planes meet at an angle. A saddle is typically installed over the top of a roof ridge, hip, or other vertical protrusion where water may run off from two different roof sections. The saddle is shaped like a V or a U, depending on the shape of the roof, and is typically made of a durable, waterproof material such as lead, copper, or a specialized roofing membrane. The saddle is installed over the intersection of the two roof planes, with the edges of the saddle overlapping the roofing materials on each side of the ridge or hip. The purpose of the saddle is to direct water away from the intersection and prevent it from seeping into the roof structure and causing damage. Saddles are an important component of a roofing system, as they help to protect the roof from water damage and ensure that the roof remains watertight and secure.
Soaker
In roofing, a soaker is a type of flashing that is installed around the base of a chimney or other vertical structure that intersects with the roof. The purpose of a soaker is to prevent water from penetrating the joint between the chimney or other structure and the roof. Soakers are typically made of a durable, waterproof material such as lead, copper, or a specialized roofing membrane, and are installed in a stepped pattern around the base of the chimney or structure, overlapping each other to provide a watertight seal. Soakers are an important component of a roofing system, as they help to prevent water damage to the roof and the structure of the building, as well as to prevent leaks and other issues that can be caused by water infiltration.
Soffit board
In construction and roofing, a soffit board is a horizontal board that is installed underneath the eaves of a roof, where it overhangs the exterior walls of a building. The soffit board is typically made of wood, UPVC, or metal, and is designed to provide a finished appearance to the underside of the eaves while also providing ventilation to the roof space. The soffit board is important in a roofing system as it helps to protect the roof space from moisture and condensation build-up, which can lead to issues such as rot and mold growth. It also helps to prevent insects and animals from entering the roof space. Soffit boards can be plain or decorative, and are available in a range of colors and materials to match the style of the building. They are often used in conjunction with fascia boards and gutters to create a clean, finished look to the roofline.
Undercloak
In roofing, undercloak refers to a layer of roofing material that is installed beneath the tiles or slates at the eaves of a roof, where they meet the fascia board. The undercloak is typically made of a durable, waterproof material, such as bitumen felt, and is designed to provide an additional layer of protection against water infiltration and damage to the roof structure. The undercloak is installed by being laid over the fascia board and nailed to the roof decking or rafters, and then covered with the first course of tiles or slates. This helps to create a clean, neat finish to the edge of the roof, while also ensuring that any water that runs down the roof is directed into the gutter system and away from the building. The undercloak is an important component of a roofing system, as it helps to protect the eaves and prevent water from seeping into the roof structure and causing damage to the building.
Valley
In roofing, a valley is the intersection where two sloping roof planes meet at an angle, forming a V-shaped depression or channel. Valleys are typically formed where the roof pitches of two adjoining sections of a building come together, such as at the ridge of a gable roof or at the intersection of a dormer and the main roof. Valleys can be a vulnerable area of a roof, as they are prone to collecting debris and water runoff, which can lead to leaks and other issues if not properly installed or maintained. To prevent water from pooling in the valley and causing damage to the roof and the structure of the building, valley flashing or valley lining is typically installed along the length of the valley. Valley flashing is a type of metal flashing that is installed over the valley to direct water away from the intersection and into the gutters or downspouts. Valley lining is a type of waterproofing material that is installed beneath the roofing materials in the valley to provide an additional layer of protection against water infiltration.
Secret gutter
In roofing terms, a secret gutter refers to a concealed gutter system that is designed to be hidden from view. It is typically located behind a parapet or other architectural feature and is not visible from the ground. Secret gutters are commonly used on flat or low-pitched roofs where a traditional gutter system may not be practical or aesthetically desirable. They are often made from lead, copper, or other durable materials and are installed with a slight slope to ensure proper drainage. Because secret gutters are concealed, they require regular maintenance to prevent debris buildup and ensure that they are functioning properly. If left unchecked, a blocked secret gutter can lead to water damage, leaks, and other issues.
Soffit board
A board fixed to the feet of rafters, which forms the underside of projecting eaves.
Torch on roofing
Torch-on roofing, or torch-down roofing as it is also known, is a flat roof covering solution that involves three layers of modified bitumen (felt) melt-welded onto the roof surface and each other with the use of a blowtorch to create an impenetrable, waterproof seal.
Basically this is roofing felt which is laid often onto thick weatherproof plyboard or roofing boards usually during flat roofing to areas such as bay roofs or kitchen extensions.
The boards are laid first and then there are layers or special roofing felt which goes on - often called 'cap green roofing felt'.
This is then applied using high temperature blow torches - hence the terminology - torch-on-roofing.
The covering is literally torched on to the roof.
The membrane layers of a torch down roof are made of an asphalt compound called bitumen that is modified with either rubber or plastic.
Do not expect jobs which involve torch on roofing to be cheap when it comes to home improvement.
Any decent roofer will have proper insurance which has a special term in it to cover them for working with heat and at height so you can expect those costs to be built in to your quote.
Valley gutter
In roofing, a valley gutter is a type of gutter that is installed in the valley or intersection where two roof planes meet. It is designed to collect rainwater that flows down the roof and channel it away from the building. Valley gutters are typically made of metal, such as copper or aluminum, and are installed with a slight slope to ensure proper drainage. They can also be lined with roofing felt or other waterproofing materials to prevent leaks. Valley gutters are an important part of a roofing system, as they help to prevent water from pooling in the valleys and causing damage to the roof and the structure of the building. They also play a role in maintaining the aesthetic appearance of the roof, as a well-installed valley gutter can help to create a clean, uninterrupted line along the roof's edges.
Verge
In roofing, a verge refers to the edge of a pitched roof where it meets the gable end or the side of a building. It is the point where the roof tiles or slates stop and the vertical wall begins. The verge can be finished with a variety of materials, including mortar, lead flashing, or specialized verge tiles or systems. Verge tiles or systems are specifically designed to provide a clean, neat finish to the edge of the roof and to protect the exposed edge from weathering and water penetration. The verge is an important part of a roofing system, as it helps to prevent water from entering the building at the edge of the roof and also provides a finished appearance to the roofline.
Warm roof
In construction and roofing, a warm roof refers to a type of roofing system where the insulation is placed above the structural deck or sheathing, creating a continuous layer of insulation that helps to prevent heat loss and improve energy efficiency. In a warm roof system, the insulation is typically installed above the rafters or between the roof joists, depending on the design of the roof. This allows the roof structure to remain at a consistent temperature and prevents condensation from forming on the underside of the roof deck. The insulation can be made from a variety of materials, including rigid foam, mineral wool, or blown-in cellulose. Warm roofs are often used in colder climates or in buildings where energy efficiency is a priority. They are also less prone to moisture problems than cold roofs, where the insulation is installed below the roof deck.
