All About Flashing
If you haven’t heard of “flashing” for your home then you’ll want to read this article.
Understanding the basics is vital to protecting your home from any leaks.
Roof flashing is a thin, weather-resistant material that is installed on the roof’s surface to prevent water from seeping into your ceiling.
Flashing is typically made from metal, such as aluminum or copper. But it can also be made from other materials such as rubber or plastic.
What is the Purpose of Flashing?
The main purpose of roof flashing is to prevent water from entering the home through the roof.
This is achieved by directing water away from vulnerable areas such as valleys, joints, and intersections.
Flashing is also used to seal off areas where the roof meets a vertical surface such as a wall or chimney.
Without proper flashing, water can seep into the house, causing minor to major damage to the roof, walls, and foundation!
We don’t want this for you.
What Are the Different Types of Roof Flashing?
There are several types of roof flashing, each designed for a specific purpose.
Some of the most common types of roof flashing include:
Step flashing: This type of flashing is used in areas where the roof meets a vertical surface such as a wall. It is made up of small, L-shaped pieces that are installed in a stair-step pattern along the roofline.
Valley flashing: Valley flashing is used in areas where two roof planes meet at an angle. It is installed in the valley between the two planes to prevent water from seeping into the home.
Drip edge flashing: Drip edge flashing is installed along the edge of the roof to direct water away from the fascia and into the gutters.
Chimney flashing: Chimney flashing is used to seal off the area where the roof meets the chimney. It is typically made up of two pieces: base flashing, which is installed under the shingles, and counter flashing, which is installed over the base flashing and into the mortar joints of the chimney.
Maintenance and Repair
Regular Inspection and Maintenance
Regular inspection and maintenance of your roof flashing is essential to ensure that it is functioning properly and protecting your home from water damage.
You should inspect your roof flashing at least twice a year, ideally in the spring and fall in the northeast. Look for any signs of damage, such as cracks, rust, or missing pieces.
Not sure how to inspect it or don’t want to risk going on top of your roof? We don’t blame you.
For a comprehensive roof inspection, you can call our office at (845) 364-8200. Or, simply email us at TheOffice@letsroof.com.
