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Your Roofing Material Terms Glossary

Your Roofing Material Terms Glossary

by Proforma Construction Inc, September 30, 2015

Want to know more about the roofing industry? Use this glossary of material terms.

Whether you’re just looking to get the roof of your business fixed or are about to begin a new commercial build and are looking to educate yourself before you begin, we want to help. Here is a quick guide to some handy roofing terms that explain materials in this industry in layman’s terms.

  • Asphalt: This agent is made out of bitumen (a mix of hydrocarbons) to waterproof some types of roofing materials.
  • Deck: When the roof is already installed on the upper part of the roof surface, it’s called a deck.
  • Fascia: Made of wood trim, this board hides the edge of sheathings and rafters.
  • Flashing: These metal pieces or rolled roofs are designed to seal out water around chimneys, intersecting walls, vent pipes, and more.
  • Mat: This general term is used to describe the base material roofers lay underneath shingles and some types of rolled roofing materials.
  • Mortar: Made up of a mixture of mortar, sand, limestone, and water, this is used to bond the bricks of a chimney to one another and in place.
  • Starter Strip: This type of asphalt roofing is attached to the eaves. On it, the first batch of shingles can be laid.
  • Underlayment: A layer of rolled substances, this is laid underneath the main roofing material before shingles are installed to improve deck security.

We hope this glossary of terms makes it easier to talk to your roofing contractor, but we also believe you deserve to work with someone who will make sure you understand every part of the process. For all of your commercial construction needs in Pleasanton and the neighboring California cities, contact Proforma Construction! Our service-oriented team of experts is here to keep you informed every step of the way.