Square: A unit of measurement used in roofing, with one square equaling 100 square feet of roofing material.

Slope/Pitch: Roof slope or pitch refers to the steepness or angle of a roof surface relative to the horizontal plane. It is typically expressed as a ratio of vertical rise to horizontal run, or as an angle measured in degrees. Roof slope plays a significant role in the design, aesthetics, and functionality of a roofing system. Here are some key points about roof slope:

Measurement: Roof slope can be measured in several ways, including as a ratio (e.g., 4:12, which means for every 12 inches of horizontal run, the roof rises 4 inches vertically) or as an angle (e.g., a 30-degree slope).

Types of Slopes:

• Steep Slope: Roofs with steep slopes have a greater vertical rise relative to the horizontal run. They are often seen on residential homes with pitched or gabled roofs.
• Low Slope: Roofs with low slopes have a smaller vertical rise relative to the horizontal run. They are commonly found on commercial buildings and modern residential constructions. Any slope less than 2:12 requires a flat roofing system. 

Decking: The layer of boards or panels that forms the roof deck, providing a base for the roofing materials to be installed on. Most commonly, CDX plywood is used, but OSB is also acceptable.

Field: The “field” of a roof refers to the central or main portion of the roof that is not characterized by any specialized features such as ridges, hips, valleys, or eaves. It essentially comprises the flat or gently sloping area between these distinctive elements. The field is where most of the roofing materials, such as shingles or tiles, are installed, providing coverage and protection to the structure underneath.

Ridge: The highest point of a roof where two sloping sides meet, running horizontally along the length of the roof.

Hip: The external angle formed by the intersection of two sloping sides of a roof, usually found on a gable roof.

Valley: The internal angle formed by the intersection of two sloping sides of a roof, typically found where two roof planes meet.

Chimney Cricket: A chimney cricket, also known as a chimney saddle or chimney diverter, is a specialized structure designed to divert water away from the intersection of a chimney and a sloped roof. It is typically constructed as a small ridge-like structure that sits on the uphill side of the chimney, effectively diverting water around the chimney and preventing water from pooling or seeping into the roof’s vulnerable areas.

Gutter: A gutter is a shallow trough or channel typically attached along the eaves of a roof to collect and channel rainwater away from the building’s foundation. Gutters are a crucial component of roofing systems, helping to prevent water damage to the structure, foundation, and landscaping surrounding the building.

Eave: The lower edge of a roof that overhangs the wall, providing protection from the elements. Starter strip is applied along all eaves. This is also the edge where gutters would be attached.

Rake: The inclined edge of a gable roof that runs from the eaves to the ridge, often at an angle to the horizontal plane of the roof.

Fascia: A vertical board or panel that covers the ends of rafters or trusses, providing a finished appearance and supporting the gutter system. Watts Roofing will replace rotten fascia boards for an additional charge.

Soffit: The underside of the eaves, often ventilated to allow airflow into the attic space.

Lead Jack: A lead jack is a type of flashing used to seal and waterproof the area around plumbing pipes or vents that protrude through the roof. Lead jacks are designed to fit snugly around the pipe or vent, creating a watertight seal to prevent water from penetrating into the roof structure. They are an essential component of roofing systems, providing protection against leaks at vulnerable points where pipes penetrate the roof surface. Watts Roofing does NOT use rubber jacks, as they are prone to dry rotting.

Code Vents: Gas furnace and gas water heater roof vents are specific types of roofing gas vents designed to safely exhaust combustion gases produced by these appliances to the exterior of a building. It not properly installed, dangerous gases cannot properly vent, potentially causing harm or death.

Drip Edge: A metal flashing installed along the edges of a roof to direct water away from the fascia and prevent it from seeping into the roof deck or eaves. We typically install drip edge that matches the shingle, but always ask the homeowner what they prefer. Texas wind code requires us to install 2″x4″x10′ drip edge.

Ridge Vent: A type of ventilation system installed along the ridge of a roof, allowing hot air to escape from the attic space.

Starter Strip: A narrow strip of roofing material installed along the eaves and rakes to provide a secure base for the first row of shingles.

Ice & Water Barrier: A waterproof membrane installed under the roofing material in areas prone to ice dams or water infiltration such as valleys, vents and chimneys, to prevent damage to the roof deck and interior of the building.