Hip & Ridge Cap

Roofing terms · plain-language definition, with its source

Roofing terms · definition

Specialized shingles that wrap and seal the roof's hips and ridges. Upgraded caps improve wind rating and appearance.

Source: Wikipedia — Roof Shingle (Hip & Ridge)

  • Ridge

    The horizontal top line where two roof planes meet — the highest point and a key ventilation location (ridge vent).

  • Wind Rating

    The wind speed a shingle is tested to resist (e.g., 110/130 mph), dependent on shingle grade and correct nailing/starter detailing.

  • Ice & Water Shield

    A self-adhered waterproof membrane at eaves, valleys, and penetrations that blocks ice-dam and wind-driven-rain leaks. Code-required at e…

  • Hip

    The external angle where two sloping roof planes meet, running from ridge to eave. Hip roofs shed wind well but use more material.

  • Ice Dam

    A ridge of ice at the eave from attic heat melting and refreezing snow, forcing water back under shingles. Fixed by air-sealing, insulati…

  • Hail Damage

    Impact bruising and granule loss that shortens shingle life. The defining peril behind most roof insurance claims; assessed by a trained…

  • Impact-Rated Shingle

    A Class 4 (UL 2218) hail-resistant shingle that may earn an insurance premium discount in hail-prone regions.

  • Granules

    The mineral coating on asphalt shingles that protects the asphalt from UV and adds color. Granule loss is a key wear and hail-damage indi…

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