Roofing Glossary for Erie Homeowners

The most common roofing material in Erie, offering good weather protection at a moderate price. Architectural (dimensional) shingles last 25-30 years and resist Erie's wind and snow better than 3-tab.

The system of intake (soffit) and exhaust (ridge) vents that circulates air through the attic. Proper ventilation prevents ice dams in winter and reduces cooling costs in summer.

A metal strip installed at roof edges that directs water away from the fascia and into the gutters. Required by current building code in Erie.

Metal strips installed at roof joints, valleys, chimneys, and vent pipes to prevent water intrusion. Flashing failure is one of the most common causes of roof leaks in Erie.

The vertical board running along the roof edge where gutters attach. Damaged fascia in Erie often results from ice buildup and can lead to gutter failure.

Covers or screens installed over gutters to prevent debris accumulation. Particularly useful in Erie neighborhoods with heavy tree coverage.

A ridge of ice that forms at the roof edge, preventing melting snow from draining. Extremely common in Erie due to lake effect snow. Can cause water to back up under shingles and into your home.

A self-adhesive waterproof membrane installed under shingles at the eaves, valleys, and around penetrations. Essential in Erie — code requires it on the first 3 feet from the eave.

A continuous vent along the roof peak that allows hot, moist air to escape the attic. Works with soffit vents to maintain proper attic ventilation and prevent ice dams.

The angle or steepness of a roof, expressed as a ratio (e.g., 6:12 means 6 inches of rise per 12 inches of run). Steeper pitches shed Erie's heavy snow more effectively.

The plywood or OSB boards nailed to the rafters that form the base for your roofing material. Water-damaged decking must be replaced during a reroof.

The underside of the roof overhang. Vented soffits allow air into the attic, which is critical for preventing ice dams in Erie's winter climate.

Complete removal of existing roofing material before installing new shingles. Erie code allows a maximum of two layers; a tear-off is required before adding a third.

A water-resistant barrier installed over roof decking and under shingles. Synthetic underlayment is increasingly preferred in Erie for its superior moisture protection.

The V-shaped channel where two roof slopes meet. Valleys handle concentrated water flow and are prone to leaks if not properly flashed and shingled.

The force of wind lifting shingles from the roof surface. Erie's lakefront location and exposure to strong storms require shingles rated for high wind speeds.