Roof Flashing Quick Guide

Roof flashing is a crucial aspect of any roofing system as it helps to prevent water penetration at areas where the roofing material meets various protrusions, such as chimneys, vents, skylights, and valleys. Don’t let the name confuse you. Flashing is the name of the (usually) metal seals you’ll see across your roof.

Flashing is typically made of metal, such as aluminum or copper, and is used to seal these areas and prevent water from seeping in and causing damage to the structure of the building.

Below is an example of roof flashing:

This quick guide with go over a few of the most common issues with your roof flashing. A more in-depth guide will be released later.

Common Roof Flashing Issues

There are several common issues that can arise with roof flashing, including improper installation, damage from weather or pests, and corrosion.

Improper installation

This can occur when the flashing is not properly bent or cut to fit the area it is intended to cover, or when it is not securely fastened to the roof. This can lead to leaks and damage to the underlying structure. Another error is not properly integrating the flashing with other roofing components, such as shingles or tiles. This can also lead to leaks and water infiltration.

Water & Pest Damage

Damage from weather or pests can also be a problem for roof flashing. High winds, heavy rain, and snow can cause flashing to become loose or even dislodged, while pests such as possums, can gnaw on the flashing and create holes. These issues can lead to leaks and other types of damage.

Wear & Tear Corrosion

Corrosion is also a common problem with roof flashing, particularly with older buildings. Flashing that is made of metal, such as aluminum or copper, can corrode over time, which can cause it to become brittle and less effective at preventing water penetration. Corrosion can also lead to holes in the flashing, which can cause leaks and other types of damage.

Loose Flashing

Another issue with roof flashing is that it can become loose or detached from the roof. This can happen due to a lack of proper maintenance or due to the use of inferior materials. Loose flashing can allow water to penetrate the building, causing damage to the roof structure and insulation, as well as the interior of the building.

Final Words

To prevent these issues, regular maintenance and inspection of the roof flashing is important. This includes checking for any damage or wear, and making repairs or replacements as needed. In addition, it’s essential to work with a professional roofing contractor to ensure that the flashing is properly installed and sealed.

In summary, roof flashing is a crucial aspect of any roofing system, as it helps to prevent water penetration at areas where the roofing material meets various protrusions. However, improper installation, damage from weather or pests, and corrosion are common issues that can arise with roof flashing. Regular maintenance and inspection of the roof flashing, and work with a professional roofing contractor are essential to prevent these issues.

Feel free to contact our team for a personal quote & inspection for your roof flashing concerns.