Taking care of a house involves more than just cleaning the inside because what’s above your head matters too! “Roof maintenance” might not be the first thing you think about, but it’s an important topic for ESL learners who want to talk about home repairs, safety, or weather damage. Whether you’re speaking to a landlord, a roofer, or a neighbor, today’s vocabulary will help you explain problems and understand solutions. Let’s jump right in!

5 Vocabulary Words

1. Roof (Noun): The top covering of a building that protects it from rain, snow, and sunlight.

   • Example Sentences:

     1. The roof started leaking during the storm.

     2. Our roof is made of metal and lasts a long time.

     3. We climbed on the roof to check for damage.

2. Shingle (Noun): A small, flat piece (usually made of asphalt or wood) that covers a roof.

   • Example Sentences:

     1. A few shingles blew off during the windstorm.

     2. We replaced the broken shingles last weekend.

     3. The roof is covered in black shingles.

3. Leak (Noun/Verb): A hole or crack that lets water through; or the act of water escaping.

   • Example Sentences:

     1. There’s a leak in the ceiling above the kitchen.

     2. Rain started to leak through the roof.

     3. The plumber said the leak was caused by a loose tile.

4. Gutter (Noun): A channel along the edge of a roof that collects and directs rainwater.

   • Example Sentences:

     1. The gutter was clogged with leaves.

     2. Cleaning the gutters helps prevent water damage.

     3. We installed new gutters to protect the walls.

5. Inspection (Noun): A careful check or review, often done to find damage or problems.

   • Example Sentences:

     1. We scheduled a roof inspection after the storm.

     2. The home passed the safety inspection.

     3. An annual inspection can catch small issues early.

After a heavy storm last week, we noticed a small leak in the living room ceiling. We scheduled a roof inspection, and the roofer found several missing shingles and a clogged gutter. Thankfully, the roof didn’t need a full replacement, just some maintenance. Now everything’s dry, and we’re ready for the next rain!