Have you ever wondered what roof flashing is? Flashing is a thin, waterproof material used to prevent water from entering a building through openings such as windows, doors, and roof intersections. Therefore, it protects against flooding, prolonging the structure’s life while preventing problems like rot, mold, and structural damage. In addition to keeping the interior dry and mold-free, flashing is integral to any building construction. Without a doubt, it would be a smart decision to invest in high-quality flashing.
Want to know more? Make yourself comfortable, and let’s explore roof flashing types!
What Are Some of the Most Common Roof Flashing Types?
In order to protect vulnerable spots, such as chimneys, valleys, and roof edges, different kinds of flashing are available on the market. The most common roof flashing types are:
- Continuous flashing,
- Base flashing,
- Counter flashing,
- Step flashing,
- Skylight flashing,
- Valley flashing,
- Drip edge flashing, and
- Kickout flashing.
For the sake of a roof building, it is vital to understand the distinctions between these materials thoroughly.
Continuous Flashing
The primary function of this kind of flashing is to seal the joint between the roof and the wall. It’s a single, long strip of flashing that can be used as an apron, hence known as “apron flashing.”
Base Flashing
It is used to seal the junction between a vertical surface and a roof and is often composed of metal (aluminum or galvanized steel).
Counter Flashing
Counter flashing goes on the upper part of the wall, directly above the base flashing. Together, they form a powerful duo that protects the house.
Step Flashing
Step flashing is a rectangular flashing piece with a 90-degree bend in the middle, whose main purpose is to connect the roof to the wall. In order to direct water away from the wall, it will be necessary to place several layers of flashing.
Skylight Flashing
As the name implies, skylight flashing aims to create a watertight seal where a skylight or roof window meets the roof.
Valley Flashing
In the place where two roof surfaces connect, a V-shaped metal flashing is installed to redirect water from this vulnerable area.
Drip Edge Flashing
A fascia board includes a drip edge, which is an angled flashing piece attached to it. These drip edges are installed along gutters to assist in deflecting water away from the fascia; that way, the water is redirected to the gutters.
Kickout Flashing
In order to direct water away from the cladding and into the gutter, a specific flashing should be installed. When put correctly, kickout flashing prevents water from penetrating the building barrier.
How to Install Roofing Flashing
It’s important to note that the roof’s longevity and water resistance depend on the roofing flashing quality and installation. If you want to install roof flashing correctly, you can use this basic outline:
- Before you begin flashing installation, remove any waste from the roof’s surface, such as debris or broken items, and ensure it’s clean, dry, and contaminant-free.
- Prepare the flashing for installation by measuring and cutting it to fit the specific area, and make sure the flashing is wide enough to cover the area.
- Put the flashing in the proper position, and secure it using the nails or screws. Also, make sure you use suitable fasteners compatible with the flashing material.
- When using more than one piece of flashing, make sure they overlap properly to form a seamless watertight seal and fill any gaps with silicone.
After you’ve done all that, it’s time for the final step – a water test. You can spray water on the roof surface and observe if the flashing adequately channels the water without any leaks or water intrusion.
Choose Severe Weather Roofing & Restoration, LLC as Your Roofing Contractor for Flashing Installation.
Severe Weather Roofing & Restoration has been in the roofing industry for more than ten years, and we’ve built and maintained a stellar reputation on the strength of our superior products and customer care.
If your roof is in need of installing flashing, Severe Weather Roofing & Restoration is here to help. We will find the source of your leaks and repair them immediately to prevent further damage.
Contact us now, and allow one of the most skilled and knowledgeable roofing companies to install the flashings on your roof!
