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The ridge is the horizontal line where two sloping roof sections meet at the top, forming the highest point of the roof. A hip, on the other hand, is the external angle formed where two roof sections meet and slope downward toward the walls, typically at a lower angle than the ridge. The ridge runs horizontally along the peak and the hip runs diagonally from the peak to the roof's edges.

The most common defect in a flat roof is leaking. Flat roofs have minimal slope, so water pools more readily on a flat roof than on a sloped roof, and the risk of the waterproof membrane failing increases with exposure. Tears and punctures from foot traffic and blown debris are other common problems, especially with single-ply roofing membranes like TPO and EPDM roofs.

Yes, clay and concrete tile roofs will keep your home cooler in the summer for two reasons. First, the material has low heat conductivity, so heat transfer from the sunlight and the outside air to your home will be very slow. Additionally, tile roofs have air gaps between the tiles and the roof decking, which helps further insulate your structure from heat gain. Light-colored tile is especially energy-efficient and will minimize how much outside heat transfers into your home.

Roof underlayment usually lasts as long as the roofing material that covers it, as it’s not directly exposed to the elements. In most cases, roofing companies will replace the underlayment each time they install a new roof. In some cases, particularly with slate, clay, or certain metal roofs that can last 50 to 100 years, your underlayment may require replacement within that timeframe, especially if you start to notice roof leaks.