Roof Repair glossary
C-39
The CSLB license classification for roofing contractors.
Class A
The highest fire-resistance rating for roof coverings or assemblies under standard tests.
Counter-flashing
Flashing that covers step flashing, set into masonry or siding.
Deck (sheathing)
The plywood or boards the roofing is installed on.
Drip edge
Metal edging at eaves and rakes that directs water into gutters.
Eave
The lower edge of a roof that overhangs the wall.
Fire Hazard Severity Zone (FHSZ)
State-mapped area classified as Moderate, High or Very High fire hazard. See the OSFM site.
Flashing
Metal or membrane that directs water away from roof joints.
Granules
Mineral surface on asphalt shingles. Loss indicates aging.
Low-slope roof
A roof with little pitch, such as on Eichlers, using membranes rather than shingles.
Modified bitumen (torch-down)
An asphalt-based roll roofing for low-slope roofs, often heat-applied.
Pipe boot
A flashing collar around a plumbing vent.
Pitch
The steepness of a roof.
Rake
The sloped edge of a gable roof.
Ridge cap
Shingles or caps covering the roof peak.
Single-ply membrane
Low-slope roofing like TPO, PVC or EPDM.
Soffit
The underside of an eave, often containing vents.
Step flashing
L-shaped flashing woven with shingles along walls.
Tarping
Temporary covering of a damaged roof to keep water out.
Underlayment
Water-resistant layer beneath roofing.
Valley
Where two roof slopes meet.
Ventilation
Intake and exhaust vents that move air through the attic.
Wind rating
A product's tested wind resistance when installed per specifications.
WUI
Wildland-urban interface: where homes meet wildland vegetation.