Roofs are part of our house which provide adequate protection from weather conditions. It also needs to provide resistance to heat transfer which helps the coolness of the house. Roofs that are sloped from 0 to 10 degrees are considered flat and those that are over are called pitched roofs. 

Pitched Roofs are constructed in a manner that will lessen the load which can be accumulated from snow or rain. With this pitch, roofs reduce the risk of maintenance. 

Here’s a quick guide to knowing the different components of a pitched roof: 

1. Roof Covering 

It is essential that there is an assurance that your roof cover prevents the intrusion of external elements into your home, especially protection from the weather changes. Roof covers can be made of different materials but importantly should be flat and can be easily installed and repaired if there are damages.

2. Ridge

It is a horizontal material that is usually made from timber and metal found at the peak of the roof. This is where two opposing planes meet in the middle and is in the highest part of the slope. There are two types of ridges which are ridge tile and ridge board. Ridge tile serves as the cap to the roof covering while the ridge board serves as the spine where the rafter and trusses connect. 

3. Valley

It is the internal angle where the different slope of the roof meets. This certain area somehow collects the rainwater or debris that slides down to the gutter. It is important to check that the valleys are well sealed to prevent leak penetration to your home. 

4. Valley Underlayment 

It is a waterproofing sublayer of the valleys that further protects the interior from leaking or moisture. Underlayments are usually made from rubber but now evolved into much more reinforced materials like those made of synthetic. 

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5. Solid Decking 

From the word itself, it is a solid material that is seen beneath the valley underlayment. The material used should be stable enough considering its span and ability to support the load above. This serves as the secondary barrier from external elements. 

6. Hip

It is the external angle functioning as the intersection of the adjacent slope meets. It gently slopes down which is why it is mostly used in the snowy area so the accumulated snow will fall easily down. 

7. Eave

It is found on the lowest part of the roof which is connected to the gutter. It extends beyond covering the building. Eaves usually overhang the sidewalls which is a practical design so no water could leak from the wall. 

>>Related post: Factors to Consider in Calculating Roof Load

8. Verge

It is the end termination of a roof that directs water back into the main roof area. This is usually the front and the back of the house.

9. Gutter

It is where the water is collected with the purpose that it will not fall straightly on the perimeter of the house. It is usually sloped down and is connected to a downspout.

10. Downspout 

It is a pipe connected from the gutter for the water to be collectively discharged into a certain area or a canal or it can also be accumulated in a tank which you can use for cleaning.