Mastering the Essentials: A Guide to Roofing, Siding, and Gutter Terminology

A black, oily, viscous substance used as a binder in asphalt shingles and flat roofing membranes.

A peaked saddle construction at the back of a chimney to prevent water/snow buildup and divert it around the chimney.

The structural wood panels (usually plywood or OSB) that are nailed to the rafters to support the roofing material.

A structural element protruding from a sloping roof, usually containing a window, requiring complex flashing.

An L-shaped metal strip installed along the roof edges to allow water to run off into the gutters without damaging the underlying wood.

Intake vents located under the eaves that work with ridge vents to create a continuous flow of cool air through the attic.

Metal pieces (often copper or aluminum) installed in roof valleys or around chimneys to prevent water seepage into joints.

A waterproof underlayment membrane used to protect the roof from "ice damming" during cold New York winters.

A method of installing shingles where they intersect and "weave" together in a roof valley for a seamless look.

A four-sided gambrel-style hip roof characterized by two slopes on each of its sides, common in historic Queens architecture.

The incline or "slope" of a roof, expressed as the ratio of the rise (in inches) to the run (usually 12 inches).

The internal wooden "ribs" or beams that support the roof deck and the weight of the roofing material.

An exhaust vent installed at the peak of a sloped roof to allow warm air to escape from the attic.

A premium stone roofing material lasting 100+ years; requires specialized expert training for repair and installation.

Small devices installed on slate or metal roofs to prevent large "snow slides" from falling off the roof all at once.

The standard unit of measurement for roof area; 100 square feet equals one "Roofing Square."

A protective layer (felt paper or synthetic) installed directly onto the roof deck before the final roofing material is applied.

The internal angle formed by the intersection of two sloping roof planes, requiring heavy-duty flashing.

A premium roofing material made from split logs, providing a thicker, more textured appearance than standard wood shingles.

A layer of insulation or wood installed behind the siding to provide a flat surface and increase the R-value (insulation).

The decorative board fastened to the projecting edge of a gable roof, often replaced or capped during siding projects.

A siding style where wide vertical boards are joined by narrow vertical strips (battens) to cover the seams.

The process of covering exterior wood trim (fascia/soffits) with aluminum or vinyl to create a maintenance-free finish.

The "J" or "F" shaped trim pieces used to hide the ends of siding panels around windows and doors.

A horizontal row of siding or shingles running the length of the wall or roof.

The vertical board that runs along the roofline, to which gutters are usually attached.

A durable siding material made of sand, cement, and cellulose fibers, designed to mimic wood without the rot.

A horizontal decorative board found at the top of a finished wall, just below the soffit.

A breathable, water-resistant barrier installed behind siding to prevent moisture from entering the wall studs.

A universal trim piece used to finish the ends of siding panels where they meet windows, doors, or corners.

The most common installation method where each siding panel overlaps the one below it to shed water.

The ability of a siding material or house wrap to allow water vapor to pass through, preventing mold growth inside walls.

The visual depth or "shadow" created by the thickness of a siding panel; thicker panels offer a more premium look.

The underside of the eaves or roof overhang, often vented to allow airflow into the attic space.

An accessory used at the bottom of a wall to lock the first course of siding in place.

A plastic exterior wrap for houses made of PVC, known for being low-maintenance and resistant to salt air.

A gutter system built into the actual roof structure or cornice, often found on historic homes in Brooklyn and Queens.

An opening in a downspout or underground drain that allows for the removal of debris and clogs.

A high-end drainage option that develops a green patina over time and can last up to 100 years.

A curved section of pipe used to direct water around corners or away from the home's foundation.

The flat piece of metal used to close off the open end of a gutter run.

A specialized connector that allows long runs of gutters to expand and contract with New York’s temperature changes.

Mesh or solid covers installed over gutters to prevent leaves and debris from causing clogs.

A traditional semicircular gutter shape often used on historic slate or wood shake homes for an authentic look.

The internal bracket used to secure the gutter to the fascia board; hidden hangers provide a cleaner look.

The most common gutter shape in modern construction, resembling the letter "K" when viewed from the side.

The vertical pipe used to conduct rainwater from the roof gutters to the ground or a drainage system.

A corner piece of a gutter system where two troughs meet at an angle (usually 90 degrees).

The slight "tilt" of the gutter toward the downspout to ensure water flows rather than sitting still.

Custom-fabricated gutters made on-site from a single piece of metal to eliminate leaks at the seams.

A plastic or concrete pad placed under a downspout to direct water away from the foundation.

A plastic or concrete pad placed under a downspout to direct water away from the foundation and prevent erosion.