If you are unfamiliar with the way that roofing systems work, it’s important to understand the various aspects of the roof that go beyond shingles or metal paneling. By understanding all the components of your roof you will be able to troubleshoot any issues and communicate problems to a roofing contractor. One of the aspects of your roof that you might not be too familiar with is roof flashing.
Roof flashing is pieces of metal that are often installed to prevent water from passing through the structure of your roof. Flashing is also commonly known as a weather resistant barrier.
How it Works
Flashing is a system that is made of galvanized steel or aluminum. It gets placed along the joints in wall construction as well as along chimneys and other parts across your roof. Flashing can also be wrapped around areas like skylights. It works to prevent the chance of water penetrating into your roots. Flashing can be formed into valleys which will protect the slopes of your roof and direct items down into the gutters of your roof over time.
The main types of flashing that can be installed include valley flashing as discussed before and chimney flashing.
Chimney flashing is designed to direct water away from chimneys or pipes. It is found at the base of the chimney and it directs water away from the sides as well as away from the entrance. Flashing along the sides, and the top of any piping or chimney can make sure that leaking can be prevented.
Continuous flashing is another option and it is used to protect joints in a vertical wall or sloped roof. Stepped flashing is another type of flashing that is commonly used with siding or skylights.
Recognizing these materials across your roofing system can help you to point out various problems or spot the signs where flashing may have eroded off the roof. If you notice spots where flashing has eroded away and exposed the interior structure of your roof contact a roofing professional immediately.
This post was written by Reggie Reed! Reggie is a state certified roofing contractor and co-owner of Reggie Reed Roofing, the best roofing contractor St Petersburg Fl. He is a 4th generation roofing contractor. RR Roofing offers a wide variety of roofing services for residential homes, apartment complexes, condos, commercial buildings, churches and more. Reggie enjoys dedicating his spare time to helping underprivileged youth in his community and traveling with his family and friends.
