The Anatomy of the Roof

Gladiator Roofing

Despite their unassuming appearance, there are a lot of components and materials that go into a roof system. They are equipped with several protective layers and features that are designed to make your home as safe and comfortable as possible. From water protection to adequate ventilation, there are an array of features designed to protect your home.

Gladiator Roofing is a Tennessee expert that has years of experience installing, repairing, and replacing all components of the roofing system. By showing what all goes into the home, we hope that any issues will be easier to spot.

Parts of the Roof

Roof Ridge

The ridge is the highest point of the roof where the main planes meet. It is the horizontal peak of the entire roof system. This is also the area that is covered by the hip/ridge shingles.

Ridge Vent

The ridge features a small vent that runs along the length of the roof. Housed under the hip shingles, the vent is an exhaust port that allows for moisture and humidity to escape from the attic. It's essential for ventilation.

Flashing

Flashing is a metal material that is applied over joint openings, chimneys, windows, and other areas to prevent water from seeping into the home. Flashing is used to provide additional sealing over large openings and seams.

Hip

Hips are where two roof planes intersect. This seam runs vertically up the home and connects to the ridge. Just like the ridge, hip/ridge shingles are designed to fit over the seam.

Roof Deck

The deck is the undermost layer, usually made of plywood, that serves as the foundational layer for the roof plane.

Roof Valley

The valley is where roofs slope and meet. The usually join at an angle and serve as a runoff for water and debris.

Roof Underlayment

The underlayment is a material located between the deck and the shingles. Usually made of felt or synthetic material , the underlayment is designed to repel moisture and prevent water from causing damage throughout the home.

Roof Gable

The gable or rake is the triangle-shaped, outer wall that is formed by the peak and sloping roof planes.

Eave

The eave is the protruding part of the lower roof that overhangs the outer walls.

Drip Edge

The drip edge is a non-corrosive metal strip that runs along eaves and rakes along the home. They are designed to help with water runoff and protect underlayment material from excessive moisture.

Dormer

Dormers are raised sections of the roof that protrude out from the planes. They are designed to allow for the incorporation of windows, doors, decks, and more.

Water/Ice Barrier

This barrier is installed along sensitive areas of the roof (valleys, eaves, etc.), designed to add additional water protection in case more powerful storms.

Eave Vents

Under-eave vents are intended to pull cool air from the exterior and pull it into the attic and improve ventilation.

Contact Our Tennessee Specialists Today

Gladiator Roofing is a professional roofing company with years of experience helping Tennessee homes get the best care available. We work to maintained updated knowledge of the latest roofing materials and technology. We also work to educate the community, and by explaining all of the different parts of the roof, we hope you will be able to spot any potential issues.

If you begin to see any major issues, Gladiator professionals are on standby to make sure you get the help you need. Our goal is to protect your home and maintain its property value for years to come. For more information about all of the components that go into a roof, contact a Gladiator professional today.