Roofing, Siding, Windows, Gutters Glossary

Jump to:
A–C |
D–F |
G–I |
J–L |
M–O |
P–R |
S–U |
V–Z

A–C

ACV (Actual Cash Value): The value of your roof or siding today, factoring in depreciation.

Adjuster: A representative from your insurance company who inspects and estimates the damage.

Aluminum Siding: A lightweight, rust-resistant siding material used as an alternative to wood or vinyl.

Bundle: A package of shingles. Three bundles usually cover one roofing square (100 sq ft).

Chalk Line: A tool used to mark straight lines for shingle or siding alignment.

Cladding: The exterior material (like siding) applied to a structure to protect it from the elements.

Cracking: When shingles or siding split due to age, heat, or poor installation.

D–F

Deductible: The portion of a claim the homeowner pays before insurance coverage begins.

Double-Hung Window: A window with two movable sashes that slide vertically for ventilation and ease of cleaning.

Drip Edge: Metal flashing installed at roof edges to direct water off the eaves and away from fascia.

Dry-In: The process of sealing the roof deck with underlayment before installing shingles to protect from water.

Fascia: The board that runs along the roof edge, covering the ends of the rafters and supporting the gutter system.

Flashing: Thin pieces of metal used to prevent water seepage at joints, around chimneys, and in valleys.

G–I

Gable: The triangular part of a wall that encloses the end of a pitched roof.

Granules: Crushed stone surface of asphalt shingles that protect against UV rays and add color.

Hail Damage: Dents, cracks, or granule loss caused by hailstones striking roofing or siding materials.

Ice Dam: Ice that forms on the edge of a roof, preventing melting snow from draining and causing water backup.

Insured Peril: A specific event (like wind or hail) that is covered by your homeowners insurance policy.

J–L

J-Channel: A trim piece that hides cut edges of siding panels around windows and doors.

Line Item: A specific task or material listed on a claim estimate.

Loss Statement: A document provided by your insurance carrier outlining what’s covered in your claim.

M–O

Metal Flashing: Sheets of metal used to seal roof intersections and edges against water intrusion.

Moisture Barrier: Underlayment or wrap that prevents water from seeping into your home beneath siding or shingles.

OSB (Oriented Strand Board): A type of engineered wood commonly used for roof decking and wall sheathing.

Overhang: The portion of the roof that extends beyond the exterior walls to direct water away from siding and windows.

P–R

Pitch: The angle or steepness of a roof, measured in rise over run (e.g., 6:12 pitch).

Rake Edge: The sloped edge of a gable roof running from the eaves to the ridge.

Recoverable Depreciation: The amount held back by your insurance until the work is completed and verified.

Ridge Vent: A vent installed along the ridge of a roof to allow warm, humid air to escape from the attic.

R-Value: A measurement of insulation’s ability to resist heat flow; higher R-values mean better insulation.

S–U

Scope of Loss: The insurance company’s breakdown of the damage and what will be covered under the claim.

Siding: Exterior material (vinyl, wood, aluminum, fiber cement) used to cover and protect walls.

Soffit: The horizontal underside of roof overhangs, often vented for attic airflow.

Square: A unit of roof measurement equal to 100 square feet.

Starter Strip: The first row of shingles or siding installed along the edge to ensure proper alignment and wind resistance.

Supplement: A request to add additional items to an insurance claim once hidden or extra damage is discovered.

Underlayment: A layer of protective material placed between the roof deck and shingles to prevent leaks.

Underwrap: A moisture barrier installed under siding to protect the wall structure from water intrusion.

V–Z

Vapor Barrier: A material that prevents moisture from passing through walls or ceilings into insulation.

Ventilation: The system of air intake and exhaust that allows your attic and roof system to “breathe.”

Vinyl Siding: A durable plastic exterior cladding that is low-maintenance and available in many styles and colors.