Almost no one addresses roof flashing, but it is crucial for your roof system. Most people live from day to day in a home protected by flashing but have no idea what it is, how it functions, or why it is important. By the end of this article, we hope you will understand why your roof is critical to protect your family effectively.
What Is Roof Flashing?
Flashing is a thin metal material. It is usually made from steel that has been galvanized with a layer of zinc to keep it from rusting but can also be made from natural, rust-resistant materials, like copper. Professional roofers use it in places on your roof where the plane of the roof meets with another plane, such as in the valley, or around protrusions through the roof, like chimneys, vents, pipes, skylights, etc.
Can You See It?
Often, you cannot see flashing, especially in the valleys of your home. A contractor will install the flashing over the underlayment layer but under the shingles so it is completely invisible in the valleys. You may see a little flashing around chimneys, vents, and pipes.
What Does It Do?
The role flashing plays is a critical one. Any seam on your roof that could potentially allow water to enter your roof during a rain shower should be protected by flashing. It ensures that water is directed away from these areas, down your roof & into the gutters where it belongs. Additionally, flashing allows for the expansion and contraction of the wood decking at the joints of the roof, which occur naturally with temperature
changes. Without this flexibility, roof components would crack under stress. Finally, flashing also compensates for slight settling in the roof deck over time. Any roofer worth their salt will make sure that flashing is installed correctly and that their workmanship is covered under warranty.
Why Is it Important?
Lack of proper flashing on a roof can lead to a host of problems down the line. Without flashing to divert water flow, moisture will inevitably penetrate joints and connections in the roof. This trapped moisture will cause rot and deterioration in roof components like the decking, underlayment, and framing. Leaks are more likely to occur at intersections between the roof and walls, chimneys, vent pipes, skylights, and gutters if these areas are not properly flashed. If left without repair, the roof covering itself, whether shingles, metal panels, or membrane, will fail prematurely as water seeps in from unprotected edges. The repetitive expansion and contraction of the roof in varying temperatures will also take its toll without flashing to allow flexible movement. Overall, the roof system will degrade rapidly, require extensive repairs, and need full replacement far sooner if its vulnerabilities are not addressed through comprehensive flashing installation. Taking the time to flash a roof adequately saves many headaches and expenses down the road.
Contact Roofing Experts
If you are in need of roofing services from a seasoned and professional roofing company, contact Point Roofing in Boise. We’d be happy to help you with any of your residential or commercial roofing needs. We offer a free inspection & quote to help you assess the best course of action to take for your home or business!
