Roof flashing is a crucial yet often overlooked component of a well-constructed roof.
This thin, usually metal material plays a vital role in protecting your home from water damage by directing rainwater away from vulnerable areas. With a unique coastal climate here on the Northern Beaches, having proper roof flashing is important to prevent water leaks and damage to your home.
The Cloud9 Roofing team recently installed drip edge flashings for a valued client for their home in Palm Beach, who was most grateful and shared her 5 star experience:
“Incredibly prompt, professional, reliable and so easy to deal with. Excellent communication about the roof repairs, the cost, the materials required, sending photos, and then coming out to complete the job. They go above and beyond. I highly recommend Tommy and his crew.”
What is Roof Flashing?
Roof flashing is a thin, typically metal material installed in key areas of your roof to prevent water penetration. These critical areas include:
Valleys: Where two roof slopes intersect.
Chimneys: Where the chimney meets the roof.
Skylights: Around the edges of skylights.
Vent pipes: Around the base of vent pipes.
Roof edges: Along the edges of the roof where it meets the walls.
Common types of Roof Flashing:
Step Flashing: Used where the roof meets a vertical surface like a wall or chimney. It's installed in overlapping steps to ensure water flows down and away from the building.
Counter Flashing: This overlaps the top of step flashing, creating a watertight seal and preventing water from seeping behind the step flashing.
Valley Flashing: Installed in valleys where two roof slopes meet, directing water flow and preventing leaks.
Chimney Flashing: Specifically designed to seal around chimneys and prevent water from penetrating the roof at this critical junction.
Skylight Flashing: Seals around skylights to prevent water intrusion.
Drip Edge Flashing: Installed along the roof edges where the shingles meet the eaves and overhangs, to direct water away from the fascia and into the gutters. By channelling water away from the fascia, drip edge flashing prevents water from seeping behind the shingles and into the underlying wood, which can lead to rot, decay, and other types of water damage.
Key Functions of Roof Flashing:
Waterproofing: Flashing acts as a barrier against water intrusion at critical points like valleys, chimneys, skylights, and vents.
Preventing Leaks: Proper flashing prevents water from seeping into your home, causing leaks that can damage ceilings, walls, and even the underlying structure.
Protecting Your Investment: By preventing leaks and water damage, flashing helps to protect your home's value and prolong its lifespan.
Signs of Flashing Issues:
Water stains on ceilings or walls
Leaking around chimneys, skylights, or vents
Mould or mildew growth
Loose or damaged flashing
The specific type(s) of flashing used will depend on the unique features and complexities of your roof.
If you're concerned about roof flashing on your home, it's always best to obtain a professional roof inspection. If you live on Sydney’s Northern Beaches, then contact our expert friendly team at Cloud9 Roofing who will readily assess your roof's flashing or any other necessary repairs.