Basic Siding Terms You Need to Know

While your contractor discusses your siding replacement, they might mention terms you’ve never heard of before. Knowing the meaning of these words will help you communicate effectively with your installer. A local residential roofing and siding expert shares terms you need to know. 

Fascia

Fascia is connected to the ends of the roof. It is where professionals secure gutters.  

Soffit 

You’ll find soffit underneath the roof’s overhang, and it’s not as noticeable as the fascia. This component helps ventilate attics and roofing systems. It can also prevent pests and small animals from accessing your indoor spaces. 

Flashing

This piece of metal is placed at breaks in your siding, such as windows or doors. It protects the said areas against water intrusion. 

J-Channel

It’s a type of trim designed to fit around windows and doors to give your home’s exterior a finished look. 

Lap

This term refers to overlapping one siding panel to another to hide the nails that attach the material to the exterior wall. Overlapping the ends of two panels also gives your siding room for expansion and contraction.

Face

Face pertains to the side of your siding that you see. 

Profile

Profile is the shape or style of your siding’s face. 

Starter Strip

Installers use a starter strip to attach the first course of siding to your home. 

Miter Joint

A miter joint is when two panels intersect at a 90-degree angle. Siding panels and soffits are typically cut at a 45-degree angle for a sleeker appearance. 

Weep Holes

The lower edge of your siding has small openings or weep holes to prevent condensation from accumulating between your siding and the backerboard.  

Siding replacement is a significant investment, so you must choose a reliable contractor like Howard Roofing & Home Improvements. You can also rely on us for quality residential and commercial roofing services. Call us at (636) 296-1057 or complete our online form to request a free quote. We serve clients in St. Louis, MO, and the surrounding areas.