Roof lexicon: The most important components explained

A factory-applied layer of fabric on the underside of trapezoidal sheets.

• The problem: When the temperature changes, condensation forms (“condensation”), which can drip onto your car in the carport.
• The solution: The fleece absorbs the moisture (like a sponge) and releases it again when ventilated.

A small channel in the lateral overlapping area of trapezoidal sheets (longitudinal joint).
It breaks the suction of the water (capillary effect). Without this groove, wind could push the rainwater “uphill” between the sheets. Our plates (from T-18) have this protection as standard.

The “king” among plastics for light panels. Acrylic glass (Plexiglas) is extremely UV-stable, does not yellow and offers the most brilliant optics (“like glass”).

A sheet steel profile that imitates the classic, small-scale beavertail roofing.
Ideal for the renovation of farmhouses or gazebos when the weight of real bricks would be too high.

A petroleum-based waterproofing for flat roofs. Considered classic, but is increasingly being replaced by trapezoidal sheet metal.
Comparison: Bitumen often has to be renewed after 10-15 years (becomes brittle). A coated trapezoidal sheet metal often lasts 30-50 years maintenance-free if installed correctly.

A system for protection against lightning strikes. A distinction is made between external lightning protection (catch rods on the ridge, drains) and internal lightning protection. Metal roofs conduct electricity, but do not necessarily replace the lightning protection system, but must be integrated into the equipotential bonding.

Special screws with a drill tip that penetrates the metal without the need for pre-drilling. Available in stainless steel (for maximum durability) or galvanized.

A covered parking space, usually open on the sides.
In contrast to the garage, good ventilation is guaranteed here, which prevents rust on the car. Light trapezoidal sheets or light panels are particularly suitable as roof coverings.
Important: Use sheets with anti-condensation fleece here, otherwise carports can drip heavily.

The angle of the roof, decisive for the choice of profile.

• Below 5 degrees: It is imperative to use profiles with a high surround (e.g. T-35) and sealing tape.
• From 7 degrees: Most trapezoidal sheets can be laid safely.

Safety systems (treads, grates) that allow the chimney sweep to access safely.

• Gable roof: The classic (triangle).
• Monopitch roof: A sloping surface (modern).
• Hipped roof: Four slanted sides.

An extremely durable synthetic rubber. We use EPDM for our high-quality screw sealing washers and roof penetrations because it is UV-stable and does not become brittle.

A vertical pipe that directs rainwater from the gutter to the ground or into the sewer system. Usually made of zinc, copper or plastic.

The crowning glory at the highest point of the roof. It covers the gap between the two sides of the roof.

A roof with a slope of less than 10 degrees.
Attention: Do not use pan trays here (risk of backflow). We recommend trapezoidal sheet metal T-35 or standing seam with sealing tape in the joints.

The upper, often triangular wall surface of a building. The lateral edge of the roof on the gable is called “verggang” and must be protected with a gangway sheet.

The sloping outer edge of a hipped roof, where two roof surfaces meet. Here (similar to the ridge) a burr plate or ridge plate is mounted.

The “mountain” of profiled sheet metal. On the roof, screws are always screwed on the high bead (with calottes), as the water runs off in the valley (deep bead).

A “cone” made of aluminium with EPDM seal.
Why important? The dome distributes the pressure of the screw and prevents dents in the sheet metal. Professionals always mount on the roof with calottes on the upper chord.

A double-skin roof construction with a ventilation level between the insulation and the roof cladding. This layer of air wicks away moisture and prevents mold.

The “inner corner”, where two roof surfaces meet (e.g. at a dormer). This is where most of the water collects! A fillet plate is mandatory for drainage here.

The vertical battens (along the rafter), which provide rear ventilation. Without counter battens, condensation cannot dry off and the roof battens can rot.

The horizontal wooden construction on which the sheet metal is attached. The spacing of the battens (batten size) depends on the selected profile (e.g. T-35 allows larger distances than T-18).

Transparent sheets made of PVC or polycarbonate that can be integrated into the trapezoidal sheet metal surface (“continuous rooflights”).

A roof shape with differently inclined roof surfaces. The lower part is steeper than the upper part. Ideal for standing seam sheets.

The lowest slope at which a roof is safe. For trapezoidal sheets, the following applies: At least 3-5 degrees. Below that, there is a risk of water backwater.

The lateral end of the roof on the gable side.
It protects against storms and rain. Without a verge plate, the wind can reach under the roof.

A load-bearing wooden beam that runs parallel to the ridge and eaves.

Sheet steel that looks like classic roof tiles. Lighter than clay bricks, ideal for renovations.

Extremely impact-resistant plastic for light panels (hail-proof).

Foam strips to seal the shafts on the ridge/eaves.

Roof with only one sloping surface.

The cutting surface of a component. In the case of trapezoidal sheets, it shows the height of the surround (e.g. 35mm), which determines the stability.

Recommended inclination of 7 degrees for trapezoidal sheets.

Sheets with an insulating core for heated buildings.

Classic triangular roof.

Grid against roof avalanches.

Elegant click system with concealed fastening.

The classic. T-18 or T-35 profiles.

Lower roof edge (gutter).

Drip plate that leads into the gutter.

Film under the battens to protect against moisture.

Roof with 4 slopes.

Sheet metal between roof and wall.

Sine profile.

Metal comb to close the profiles against animals.

Anti-rust under the paint (galvanizing).