CHAPTER 17

These flashcards cover the key concepts and vocabulary related to roofing systems, low-slope roofs, and steep roofs.

Roof Deck

The structural surface that supports the roofing system.

Low-Slope Roof

Roofs that are close to horizontal, with slopes rising less than 1:4.

Thermal Insulation

Installed to slow the passage of heat into and out of the building.

Air Barrier

Restricts the leakage of air through the roof assembly.

Vapor Retarder

Prevents moisture vapor from condensing within the roof assembly.

Roof Membrane

A layer to keep water out of the building.

Ponding

Occurs when water remains standing for extended periods on a low-slope roof.

Insulation Above Roof Deck

Insulation that provides thermal resistance and protects the structure from temperature fluctuations.

Vapor Retarder Location

Located on the warm side of the roof insulation in cold climates.

Cool Roof

Designed to reflect more sunlight and absorb less solar energy to reduce roof temperatures.

Green Roof

Roofs covered with vegetation and soil to support plant growth and provide insulation.

Photovoltaic Systems

Materials that convert sunlight directly into electricity.

Single-Ply Membrane

Factory-made plastic or rubber sheets used in low-slope roofing.

Multi-Ply Bituminous Membrane

Membranes made from staggered layers of asphalt and felt for redundancy and durability.

Steep Roof

A roof with a high slope, typically greater than 30 degrees, designed to allow water and snow to slide off.

Asphalt Shingles

Cut from heavy asphalt-impregnated fiberglass; inexpensive and moderately fire-resistant.

Architectural Sheet Metal Roofing

Made from thin sheets of metal designed to maintain watertightness.

Lightweight Insulating Concrete

An economical insulating material that must be cured before covering.

Air-Permable Insulation

Insulation that requires ventilation to remove accumulated moisture.

Fire Resistance

The ability of roofing materials to withstand fire without losing structural integrity.