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What Are the Metal Things on Roofs Called? A Complete Roof Hardware Guide
When you look at your roof, you might notice various metal components—those sleek silver strips along the edges, the flashing jutting out around vents, or the vent caps that peek above the shingles. If you’ve ever asked, what are the metal things on roofs called, you’re not alone. These metal elements serve important roles in protecting your home from water damage, improving ventilation, and enhancing the roof’s overall longevity.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through all the key metal components found on a roof—what they are, why they matter, how to maintain them, and when they need replacement. By the end, you’ll understand each piece’s name and function, even if roofing has always felt like a mystery before.
1. Drip Edge
What it is: A long, narrow strip of metal installed along the roof’s perimeter edges.
Why it matters: The drip edge helps guide water off the roof and into the gutters, protecting the underlying decking and fascia boards from moisture damage. Without it, water can creep back under shingles and lead to rot over time.
Maintenance tips: Ensure debris doesn’t block its flow and inspect periodically for rust or lift at fasteners.
2. Flashing
What it is: Sheets or strips of metal—usually aluminum or galvanized steel—installed around roof protrusions like chimneys, plumbing vents, skylights, and dormers.
Why it matters: Flashing is essential for creating watertight seals where the roof surface meets vertical elements or joints, directing water away and preventing leaks.
Types to know:
- Step flashing: for vertical walls
- Continuous flashing: commonly used for chimneys or long roof junctions
- Valley flashing: protects the intersection of two roof planes
Maintenance tips: Look for loose or corroded flashing and replace or reseal as needed.
3. Ridge Cap (Hip and Ridge Shingles)
What it is: Pre-formed or special shingles placed along roof peaks and hips, often reinforced with metal underlay or rigid metal ridge rolls.
Why it matters: Ridge caps protect the top edges of your roof and provide elevation for proper ventilation when paired with ridge vents.
Maintenance tips: These are common spots for wind damage, so check periodically and replace weathered or loose caps.
4. Ridge Vent with Metal Cover
What it is: A ventilation system installed at the apex of a roof ridge, often covered with a metal cap to protect it from weather while allowing airflow.
Why it matters: Ridge vents let hot, moist attic air escape, promoting temperature regulation and preventing moisture buildup—which can cause mold or damage roofing materials.
Maintenance tips: Keep surrounding soffit vents clear and inspect for signs of blockage or damage.
5. Gutter and Gutter Guards
What it is: Metal troughs (typically aluminum or steel) along the edges of eaves, often accompanied by guards or covers to reduce blockages.
Why it matters: Gutters conduct rain runoff away from the home’s foundation, while guards help prevent leaves and debris from clogging the gutter
Maintenance tips: Clean gutters regularly and replace rusted or sagging sections promptly.
6. Vent Pipe Covers / Roof Vent Caps
What it is: Metal caps or flashing assemblies that cover vent pipes protruding from the roof surface.
Why it matters: These caps keep rainwater from entering through vent shafts while allowing necessary airflow for plumbing systems.
Maintenance tips: Ensure seals around the base remain intact and free of cracks or gaps.
7. Snow Guards
What it is: Metal components or tracks mounted just below the eaves of steep roofs to hold snow in place and prevent sudden slides.
Why it matters: In snowy regions, sudden snow movement can damage property or harm passersby. Snow guards reduce that risk by holding snow in place.
Maintenance tips: Make sure they’re firmly attached—check any that have come loose over time.
8. Counter-Flashing
What it is: A secondary layer of flashing embedded into vertical surfaces (like chimneys or walls) over base flashing.
Why it matters: Counter-flashing adds another layer of protection at joints, enhancing water resistance and preventing uplift.
Maintenance tips: Ensure it’s properly sealed and inspect the sealant regularly for wear.
9. Drip Edges and Fascia Flashing
What it is: Metal strips that wrap around fascia boards or are installed under gutter edges to shield wooden components from weather.
Why it matters: These elements protect exposed wood from rot and ensure clean visual transitions between roof and wall.
Maintenance tips: Replace rusted or loose strips to maintain integrity.
10. Snow Rails or Snow Stops
What it is: Metal rails installed horizontally near the eaves to create an orderly release of snow rather than large, fast-moving avalanches.
Why it matters: They reduce risk to structures, landscaping, and people from sudden snow slides.
Maintenance tips: Inspect attachments after heavy snow seasons and check for accumulated debris that could reduce effectiveness.
11. Drip Cap Flashing Over Windows/Doors at Roof Intersections
What it is: Narrow metal strips installed over areas where roof edges meet windows or doors nearby.
Why it matters: These strips divert water away from exterior openings, protecting trims and preventing leaks.
Maintenance tips: Make sure the cap overlaps properly and maintains a tight seal around edges.
12. Ventilation Products: Turbine Vents, Power Fans, and More
What it is: Metal vents—either wind-operated (turbines), electric fans, or solar-powered units—installed on roofs to promote airflow.
Why it matters: They help release hot attic air, reducing energy costs and preventing moisture accumulation.
Maintenance tips: Keep turbine vents turning smoothly, and inspect electric fans for operational wear or blockages.
13. Metal Roof Panels and Standing-Seam Joints
What it is: Panels made of metal (such as steel, aluminum, copper) that are fastened via hidden seams typically made of standing seams.
Why it matters: Provides long-lasting protection in a weather-resistant system with few exposed fasteners. Standing seams form continuous lines across the roof surface.
Maintenance tips: Check seams periodically for separation, especially in older installations or areas with extreme heat/cold cycles.
14. Accessories: Caps, Closure Strips, and Screws
What it is: Smaller metal components—like closure strips, fasteners, and panel caps—that support edge sealing and aesthetics.
Why it matters: These small pieces contribute to roof watertightness, preventing moisture and pests from entering gaps.
Maintenance tips: Use manufacturer-specified closures and fasteners, and replace damaged pieces during inspections.
15. Hidden Metal Elements: Valley Liners and Ice Barriers
What it is: Underlayment metals or rubberized membranes installed in roof valleys and eaves before shingles are applied.
Why it matters: They create an impermeable layer at water-congregation zones, shielding your roof from leaks caused by meltwater or ice dams.
Maintenance tips: Confirm installation during inspection if you’re replacing shingles and revisit these details in icy climates.
Real-World Insights from Homeowners and Contractors
Homeowners often mention:
- Drip edge was missing or poorly installed, leading to water damage in fascia wood.
- Flashing rusted gracefully but leaked, prompting replacement and better sealant choices.
- Metal ridge caps showed wear early on because of exposure and nearby trees dropping sap.
These stories highlight the importance of proper identification, installation, and periodic maintenance of metal roof components.
Final Thoughts
Knowing what the metal things on roofs are called isn’t just for trivia—it’s key to maintaining and protecting your most important barrier against the elements. From drip edges to flashing to ventilation, each piece helps your roof stay watertight, energy-efficient, and durable.
