Roofing Terminology
Knowing common roofing terminology will enable you as a homeowner to make an informed decision about roofing materials that are good matches for your home's style and the region in which you live. It will also help you understand the contract with your roofing professional and the project updates. Some key roofing terms are listed below: Asphalt: A waterproofing agent applied to roofing materials during manufacturing. Asphalt plastic roofing cement: An asphalt-based sealant used to bond roofing materials. Also known as flashing cement, roof tar, bull or mastic. Back surfacing: Granular material applied to the back side of shingles to keep them from sticking during delivery and storage. Base flashing: That portion of the flashing attached to or resting on the deck to direct the flow of water onto the roof. Built-up roof: Multiple layers of asphalt and ply roofing panda sheets bonded together. Butt edge: The bottom edge of the shingl...