Important Roofing Terms You Should Know in 2026 (Cheat Sheet)

1. The “Money” Terms (Insurance)

These are the most critical definitions for homeowners filing a claim.

ACV (Actual Cash Value)

• The Definition: The value of your roof today, minus depreciation for age.

• Why it matters: If your policy is ACV only, and your roof is 15 years old, the insurance company might only pay you $500 for a roof that costs $15,000 to replace.

RCV (Replacement Cost Value)

• The Definition: The cost to replace your roof with brand-new materials at today’s prices, regardless of age.

• Why it matters: This is the “Gold Standard” policy. You want RCV coverage to ensure you aren’t paying out of pocket.

Depreciation

• The Definition: The money the insurance company holds back until the work is actually finished.

• The Trick: Most depreciation is recoverable (they pay it later). But if you have a bad policy, it might be non-recoverable.

Deductible

• The Definition: The amount you must pay before insurance kicks in.

• 2026 Update: Many Illinois policies have moved to a 1% Deductible. If your home is insured for $300,000, your deductible is now **$3,000** (not the $500 it used to be).

2. The “Pricing” Terms

How contractors calculate your quote.

Square

• The Definition: A unit of measurement equal to 100 square feet (10′ x 10′).

• Why it matters: Roofers don’t charge by the “shingle.” We charge by the “square.” A typical home is between 25 and 40 squares.

Pitch (Slope)

• The Definition: The steepness of your roof (e.g., 4/12 or 12/12).

• The Cost: The steeper the pitch, the more expensive the labor, because crews need safety harnesses and special equipment to walk on it.

3. The “Anatomy” Terms (Parts of the Roof)

Knowing these helps you understand the inspection report.

Decking (Sheathing)

• The Definition: The wooden boards (usually plywood or OSB) underneath your shingles.

• The Risk: If we say you have “rotted decking,” it means the wood structure is soft and must be replaced to meet code.

Ice & Water Shield

• The Definition: A sticky, waterproof membrane installed on the eaves and valleys.

• Why it matters: In Central Illinois, this is Code Required. It seals around the nails to prevent leaks from Ice Dams.

Flashing

• The Definition: Metal sheets installed around chimneys, vents, and walls.

• The Fact: 90% of leaks happen here. If your flashing is rusted, the roof will leak, even if the shingles are new.

Drip Edge

• The Definition: Metal edging installed at the eaves to direct water into the gutters.

• Why it matters: It prevents water from curling back and rotting your fascia board. It is also required for most wind warranties.

4. The “Warning Signs” Terms

What our inspectors look for.

Granule Loss

• The Definition: The sand-like coating on shingles washing off.

• The Meaning: Granules protect the asphalt from the sun. Once they are gone, the shingle “balds” and cracks. This signals the end of the roof’s life.

Blistering

• The Definition: Bubbles on the shingle surface caused by trapped moisture or poor attic ventilation.

• The Meaning: If popped, these leave the shingle vulnerable to UV damage.

Confused? Let Us Translate.

You don’t need to memorize this list. That’s our job. At SNS Roofing, we have in-house Public Adjusters who speak fluent “Insurance.” We handle the negotiations and technical terms so you don’t have to.

Need a translator? Contact SNS Roofing today for a free inspection and policy review.