Roof flashing, typically made of thin pieces of galvanized steel, is installed under shingles wherever the roof meets another surface. Its purpose is to direct water away from areas where leaks are common, such as chimneys, walls, vents, skylights, and dormers. By providing an extra barrier against water intrusion, roof flashing plays a vital role in protecting your roof from structural damage, ensuring its longevity, and preventing mold growth.
At Kanga Roof, we realize that most homeowners are unaware of the significance of roof flashing and don’t know how to maintain it. If this sounds familiar to you, keep reading to learn about flashing types, their functions, problems you may encounter, and expert maintenance tips.
What Is Roof Flashing?
As we said before, roof flashing refers to thin sheets of metal that, when installed underneath the shingles, seal the joints between materials at transition points and direct water runoff away from vulnerable areas.
You may find flashing installed around these areas of your roof:
- Chimneys
- Skylights
- Roof valleys
- Vents and pipe penetrations
- Dormers and walls meeting the roof
- Along edges (eaves and rakes)
So, why is roof flashing so important? By preventing water leaks at vulnerable joints, it protects roof decking and the interior of your home from mold and rot, extends the roof’s overall lifespan, and is critical for storm protection during heavy rainfall or snowstorms.
Common Types of Roof Flashing
There’s no one-size-fits-all roof flashing solution. Different roof styles, locations, and materials require different types of flashing, including:
- Step flashing, which is layered with shingles and used where the roof meets vertical walls.
- Counter flashing, which works in tandem with step flashing and is often embedded in masonry.
- Continuous (apron) flashing, which is used along low-slope roof-to-wall transitions.
- Valley flashing, which can direct large volumes of water away from open roof valleys.
- Drip edge flashing, which prevents water from seeping under roofing materials along eaves and rakes.
- Vent pipe flashing/boot flashing, which is often made of rubber or metal and is used around plumbing vents.
Common Roof Flashing Problems
Like any other element of your roof, flashing can encounter problems that impact its ability to protect your home. Over time, the metal can crack, corrode, or rust. It can also become loose due to age or weathering, compromising its tight seal. Plus, if it wasn’t installed or sealed properly in the first place, it’s more likely to need repairs or replacement down the line.
Signs your flashing needs repair include:
- Water stains or leaks near chimneys, skylights, or vents.
- Visible rust, gaps, or peeling caulk around flashing areas.
- Loose or missing flashing material.
- A sagging ceiling or mold growth indoors.
Flashing Maintenance and Repair Tips
It may not seem like a big deal in the long run, but faulty flashing can have serious consequences on your roof’s integrity. When you neglect to address these issues in a timely manner, you run the risk of water leaks, interior damage, wood rot, and mold.
If you want to avoid these problems and ensure your home remains protected from the elements, it’s crucial to schedule regular roof inspections, especially after storms. If the technician finds damaged flashing, ensure it’s replaced promptly by a professional using high-quality sealants and materials.
It’s also important to keep debris like leaves and branches clear of flashing areas. Trimming overhanging tree branches can decrease the amount of debris, helping you avoid buildup that could put your flashing at risk.
When to Replace Flashing
While flashing is strong and durable, it’s not invincible and may need to be replaced periodically. It’s a good idea to replace it during a full roof replacement or when making major repairs to chimneys or skylights. Roof flashing should also be replaced if it’s aged, deteriorated, or otherwise compromised. If you’re not sure whether your flashing needs replacement, contact a roofing professional for advice.
Reliable Maintenance and Inspections by Kanga Roof
At Kanga Roof, we’re here for all your roofing needs. Whether you’re wondering if it’s time to replace your roof flashing, seeking an inspection, or need professional repairs, our team of highly trained roofing technicians is prepared to rise to the occasion. As a licensed and insured roofing contractor, you can trust that we’ll get the job done right.
Contact Kanga Roof today for a flashing inspection, repair, or full roof assessment.
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