Most homeowners don’t know it or talk about it, but the flashing attached to the roof is a very important element of the entire roofing system. The lack of it almost always leads to leaks that could lead to even more problems inside the home. This is not overstating it: your roof and home needs it.
What is flashing and why is it so important? Trusted roofers share a quick guide in this post.
What Is Flashing?
Flashing is a strip that is designed to secure the joints in your roof. It can be made of lead, copper, sheet metal, rubber or plastic. It is waterproof and is designed to prevent water from entering the roof regardless of temperature changes.
What Is It Used For?
Flashing is basically used to prevent water from leaking through porous areas on the roof such as around skylights and chimneys, as well as in areas where a lot of water is expected to flow. It is bent to fit the areas where it will be attached and, once installed, will redirect water away, preventing it from leaking into the home and necessitating roof repair projects.
What’s the Best Flashing Material?
Every kind of material used to make flashing serve their own purpose. As such, not one is better than the other in terms of waterproofing. Here’s where they are best used:
Lead is very soft and is best used in small, hard to reach areas. Despite its flexibility, lead flashing is durable and can last a long time. It does pose some health risks, however.
Copper is an expensive flashing material ideally used in high-end and historic homes. It is harder to bend compared to other materials, but is also durable and more compatible with wood preservatives.
Sheet metal can be made using steel, zinc, and aluminum. It is easier to form compared to copper, and is relatively inexpensive as well.
Rubber or plastic flashing is very cheap compared to its metal counterparts, but doesn’t last as long. However, it’s easy to install. Roofers find PVC’s immunity to wood treatments as an advantage when building a deck.
Are you looking for reliable roofing contractors to install flashing on your roof? Look no further than Halo Roofing Inc., the professional roofing company serving homes in Collier and Lee Counties in Florida. Call our pros at (239) 300-8892 or fill out our contact form for a free, no-obligation quote.
