WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT YOUR ROOF FLASHING – FAMILY ROOFING

Posted on by David Reid

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WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT YOUR ROOF FLASHING

A roof flashing system is designed to direct the flow of water off a roof, bypassing the areas that are the most susceptible to water damage.  More specifically, roof flashing materials are strategically placed to close corners and crevices where water could seep in without it (think chimneys, skylights, vents, etc.).

Roof flashings play a crucial role in safeguarding the integrity and longevity of your roof. Let’s delve into what you need to know:

What Is Roof Flashing?

Roof flashing is a thin material, often made of galvanized steel, that professional roofers use to direct water away from critical areas where the roof plane meets vertical surfaces like walls or dormers.  It surrounds roof features such as vents, chimneys, and skylights to prevent water infiltration.

Why Is Roof Flashing Important?

Roof flashing provides a seal at roof joints, penetrations (like chimneys or vents), intersections of two roof surfaces, or where the roof meets an exterior wall.  It acts as both a barrier and a way to divert water down and off your roof.

Types of Flashing Materials:

Galvanized Steel: Commonly used due to its cost-effectiveness and corrosion resistance.

Copper: Durable but develops a patina over time, appreciated for its classic appearance.

Aluminum: Lightweight and easy to shape, but it requires coating to prevent breakdown when in contact with alkaline surfaces.

Signs of Roof Flashing Failure:

Water leaks: If you notice water seeping into your home, damaged flashing could be the culprit.

Wood rot: Poor flashing can lead to wood decay.

Shingle damage: Insufficient flashing may harm adjacent shingles.

Deck collapse: In extreme cases, compromised flashing can weaken the roof structure.

Though the overarching idea of roof flashing is the same, there are different types that fit some situations better than others. Here are seven common types of roof flashing you should know:

Base Flashing

Base flashing helps prevent water damage at vertical-to-horizontal intersections on a roof where the roof meets a vertical wall juncture.  Base flashing is installed underneath siding and shingles, so it’s not easily seen.

Step Flashing

Step flashing involves “L” shaped pieces of flashing material that are installed along the corner where the roof meets a sidewall. This type of flashing is partly visible, so homeowners may choose a more expensive material to better match their home’s exterior.

Counter Flashing

Counter flashing is placed either above or opposite of base flashing. It’s most commonly used between the roof’s surface and a chimney or a brick wall. Its purpose is to protect the base flashing.  The most effective way to install counter flashing on a chimney is actually while the chimney itself is being built. However, you can still add counter flashing to an already existing brick structure.

Continuous Flashing (aka Apron Flashing)

Continuous or apron flashing is a long piece of flashing that reroutes water from vertical walls and sloped roofs into a gutter.

Valley Flashing

Valley flashing involves using flashing materials to line the dip where two sides of a roof come together and form a valley. This helps direct running water off of the roof and into the gutters.

Kickout Flashing (aka Diverter Flashing)

Kickout flashing is needed when a gutter ends against a sidewall. This kind of flashing helps prevent water from running down the sidewall and diverts it into the gutters instead.

Drip Edge

Drip edge flashing is placed around the edges of a roof to prevent water from dripping behind the gutters and rotting out the roof in the process.

Skylight Flashing

Skylight flashing protects the junction where the skylight meets the roof and uses both step flashing and counterflashing.  Some skylights offer or require their own flashing kits to ensure a snug fit and proper seal to reduce the chance of leaks.

Flashing is simple to repair if you know what you’re doing, but when it’s been installed improperly, or you simply don’t know how to do the work, it’s important to consult with an expert to have your roof reliably sealed once again.