Roofing Glossary

The terms that show up on a Florida roofing estimate, permit or insurance document, explained in plain language.

Structure and deck

• Deck / sheathing — the plywood or board surface the roof is fastened to
• Re-nailing — bringing existing deck fastening up to current code during a re-roof
• Truss / rafter — the framing carrying the deck
• Roof-to-wall connection — how the roof structure ties into the walls; documented on wind mitigation forms

Water control

• Underlayment — the water-resistant layer between deck and covering
• Secondary water resistance (SWR) — a sealed barrier at the deck seams
• Flashing — metal at transitions, walls, chimneys and penetrations
• Drip edge — metal at the eave and rake directing water into the gutter
• Valley — where two roof planes meet and concentrate water
• Pipe boot — the seal around a plumbing vent penetration

Coverings

• Architectural shingle — laminated dimensional asphalt shingle
• Standing seam — concealed-fastener metal panel system
• 5V crimp — exposed-fastener metal panel
• Foam-set tile — tile adhered with polyurethane foam adhesive
• TPO / PVC — heat-welded single-ply low-slope membranes
• Modified bitumen — rolled asphalt-based low-slope system

Paperwork

• Product approval / NOA — documentation that a system is approved for a wind zone
• Wind mitigation inspection — form documenting rating-relevant construction features
• 4-point inspection — condition report on roof, electrical, plumbing and HVAC
• Square — 100 square feet of roof area, the standard roofing unit

O'Brien Contracting — Florida roofing contractor, license CCC1335947. Call (239) 919-4485.

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