Roofing 101: The Anatomy of a Roof

Roofing terms can be confusing. We have put together an overview of your pitched roof to help you better understand the anatomy of your roof.

Breaking Down the Anatomy of a Pitched Roof

Gable Roofs

A gable roof has two sloping sides that meet at the peak.

A gable roof contains the following parts:

Ridge: The peak of your roof. It is the highest point on a sloped roof.
Eaves: They are the lower edges of the roof that overhang the home’s exterior walls.
Gable: An A-shaped side wall of the home that forms the peak of the roof is called the gable.
Rake: The rake of the roof is the part that ends over a gable end.

Hip Roofs

A hip roof is where the ends are sloped. The gable end is replaced by a hip end. A hip roof still has a ridge and eaves (true for all peaked roofs).

A hip roof contains the following parts:

Hip: Sloped, diagonal ridge between two sections of the roof is called the hip ridge.
Hip End: The sloped side of the roof with a peaked top.
Valley: A valley is an inward joint where two sloping roofs meet. Your roof will likely have multiple valleys.

The Unseen Parts of Your Pitched Roof

Above, we have mentioned all of the parts of the roof that you can see. There is always more to a roof than what meets the eye. Here are some parts of the roof that you do not see:

Rafters: Rafters are part of the frame of your roof. They are the underlying structure that is holding up your roof.
Decking: The decking goes on top of the rafters and acts as a solid surface for the rest of your roof.
Underlayment: On top of the decking is underlayment. The underlayment protects the decking and rafters from moisture.

The above is all the roof basics, but here are a few other roof terms you may want to familiarize yourself with.

Fascia: A horizontal board that is fastened to the lower ends of the roof rafters. If you have gutters, they are attached to your fascia board.
Soffit: Soffits are the underside of the eaves.
Drip Edge: Metal flashing along the edges of the roofline, which is designed to divert rain away from the home.
Flashing: Flashing is metal that is used to help stop water from penetrating the junction of the roof with another surface. You will find flashing around chimneys, flue pies, and even in the valleys sometimes.

Need Help Evaluating Your Roof?

Middle Creek Roofing would be happy to come out and complete a full assessment of your roof system. Give us a call today at 717-949-7905.

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Hear It Straight From Our Customers

800+ 5-Star Reviews on Google

See what some of our customers have to say about working with Middle Creek Roofing:

      EXCELLENT  
   Based on 872 reviews 
    
 
 
 
   
 
 
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   Rosa S 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Got a recommendation to go with MCR, we didn’t know our home came without a ridge cap installed, til the rain started coming into the house. These guys were so quick the estimates, returning phone calls and getting the work done. We got a ridge vent and cap replacement. Didn’t need to spend more than what just needed repaired. Will be recommending them to everyone. Will be back in the future for more work. Thank you!
  
 
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   T J 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I had an excellent experience with Kyle from Middle Creek Roofing! He arrived early for our appointment, was extremely professional, and took the time to explain everything in great detail. His presentation was thorough, informative, and made the entire process easy to understand. Everything from the appointment to taking my payment was handled quickly and efficiently. Kyle was knowledgeable, personable, and made the whole experience incredibly easy. Awesome customer service from start to finish! I would absolutely recommend Kyle and Middle Creek Roofing!
  
 
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   Brandon v 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. The entire team at Middle Creek Roofing was phenomenal. They replaced our roof in Lancaster, PA and we could not be more satisfied with the result. Janine made sure we were updated every step of way so we knew exactly what to expect and when to expect it. When the Crew arrived on install day they knew all the details of the project. They were kind, courteous of our surroundings, and very tidy while working. The clean up was flawless. 10/10 I would recommend Middle Creek Roofing for your next roof replacement!
  
 
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   Tammy H 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I had shingle replacement done on my home in Newmanstown. Corey and the guys did an amazing job. I recommend middle creek to all my friends and family.
  
 
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   Jim B 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We had our house in Harrisburg reschingled by Corey and crew. Great crew ! Made quick work of this job, no one ever stopped! Great looking product!
  
 
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   Jason 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Pleased with  the asphalt shingle replacement on my home! 40 year shingles look great! Corey and crew came to my house in West Lawn, were very professional and replaced in a timely manner. Would recommend to all my friends and family
  
 
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   Eugene 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Corey's Crew: This crew is highly skilled and professional. There was a high degree of teamwork and attention to detail. More importantly, the team was very enthusiastic and motivated. The results were impeccable.
  
 
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   Marie-Aline C 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. House located in Bernville. Received a shingle replacement. They did a great job! They were super professional, very respectful of the property, cleaned up everything afterwards, and I can’t believe how fast they were. The flashing around the chimney and windows looks excellent, and the shingles are lying down the way they’re supposed to! Matt Tilley was our very professional and personable contact person. He got up on the roof and took videos of everything so we could really see what the issues were, and then he explained the whole roofing process really well to us.  He also provided a follow up video so that we could see what the finished product looked like from up on the roof, which was really gratifying and helpful. We are very happy with this company and our new roof!

Why Homeowners Choose Middle Creek Roofing

Superior Customer Service

As a valued customer, your needs come first. We guarantee clear communication, punctuality, and professionalism through every stage of your project.

Quality Products

We use the highest-quality roofing materials from leading manufacturers such as CertainTeed, GAF, Owens Corning, and TAMKO to ensure every repair, replacement, and installation lasts for years to come.

Competitive Warranties

We stand behind our quality products and timeless Amish craftsmanship, which includes the industry’s best manufacturer and labor warranties. We offer 50-year protection on all roofing installations and replacements, plus an extended labor warranty for your peace of mind.

Highly Skilled Roofers

Our roofing team has the training and experience required to handle projects of any size and complexity. We hold all necessary insurance, licensing, and certifications so you’re not liable if any issues arise.