Know Key Parts of Roofing Every Homeowner Should Understand

Structural Elements That Shape and Support Your Roof

Fascia

Homes have trim all over the place, and it’s all collectively called fascia. Think of fascia as the last name, and these are the first names:

• Eaves Fascia – Behind your gutter lines, at the bottom of the roof slope
• Rakes Fascia – Runs along the slope of the roof (from ridge to eaves)
• Freeze Fascia – Where the wall meets the roof, connecting soffit to siding
  Band Board Fascia – Separates different wall siding sections (e.g., rectangular wall meeting gable)
• Gutter Fascia – Same as eaves fascia, just with gutters over it
• Return Fascia – Connects eaves and rakes (aka “bird boxes” in the industry)
• Trim Fascia – Any other exposed wood trim that doesn’t fit the above

 

Also, you can’t forget fascia’s favorite cousin: Soffit!

These fascia types make up the roofline trim, and they must be properly wrapped and flashed to ensure your roof’s flashing systems hold up and do their job.

Ridge & Hips

These are where roof slopes meet. Ridges run horizontally at the top, while hips are diagonal joints. They’re protected by specialized caps to prevent leaks and improve appearance.

Bonus tip: Ridges are often used for attic ventilation—since the top of the roof is prime venting real estate.

Roof Pitch

This refers to how steep your roof is. It affects:

• Water runoff
• Material selection
• The difficulty (and cost) of repairs or replacement

Dormers

Those small vertical structures with windows sticking out from your roof? They’re called dormers. Basically, anytime your roof sprouts another little roof.

Roof Decking

This is the wooden substrate (usually plywood or OSB) attached to your roof’s trusses or rafters—right under your shingles.

• Most codes in our area require ½” plywood or OSB
• Older homes often have ⅜” decking that’s lasted for decades
• Most roofs will need some decking replaced during a re-roof
• It’s normal to be nervous about substrate damage—but it’s often manageable

Trusses and Rafters

These framing members give your roof its shape and strength.

• Trusses – Pre-built with metal plates, engineered to spread weight across load-bearing walls. Can’t be modified without a structural engineer.
• Rafters – Stick-built on-site. Easier to modify later on.

Why it matters: These are your roof’s skeleton. If compromised, you may face sagging, leaks, or costly structural repairs. Knowing what supports your roof helps you spot issues early—and know what can be fixed vs. what can’t.

Water Protection Systems That Guard Your Home

Flashings

Metal strips (aluminum, steel, or copper) that keep water away from walls, chimneys, and penetrations.

• Step Flashings go under shingles and guide water down
• Counterflashings sit over other flashings and seal into surrounding surfaces

Drip Edge

Metal flashing at the eaves and rakes. It:

• Prevents water from curling under shingles
• Creates a clean edge that works with fascia cladding for waterproofing

Leak Barrier

A fiberglass mat that goes on:

• Eaves, rakes, valleys
• Around chimneys, vents, skylights

It seals to the deck and around nails—defending against ice dams and wind-driven rain.

Underlayment

This moisture-resistant layer goes under the shingles and over the roof deck.

• Covers the entire roof
• Breathable, so it doesn’t trap moisture inside
• Works in tandem with leak barriers for complete protection

Why it matters: Water is your roof’s worst enemy—and it’s sneaky. You need properly installed layers to stop a small leak from becoming major rot, mold, or damage.

Shingles and Finishes That Provide Style and Defense

Starter Strip

The first shingles installed (often ungranulated, sometimes rolled). Their adhesive strip helps lock down the first row and reduce blow-offs.

Roof Shingles

What most people think of when they hear “roof.” These are your home’s outer armor, available in a variety of styles:

• 3-Tab Shingles – The old-school, budget-friendly option
• Architectural Shingles – Modern, dimensional, long-lasting (we recommend GAF Ultra HDZ)
• Designer Shingles – High-end shingles mimicking slate, cedar, or shake

Attic Ventilation: The Unsung Hero of Roof Longevity

Attic Vents

Attic airflow is often overlooked, but it’s crucial.

• Unvented attics can exceed 160°F in summer
• That heat can damage roof decking and bleed into your living space
• Proper vents help prevent ice dams in winter and extend roof lifespan

Homes in our region don’t have crawlspaces, so the attic is the most critical non-conditioned space that needs to breathe. Proper attic ventilation supports energy efficiency, indoor comfort, and overall roof health.