What exactly is roof flashing? In simple terms, roof flashing is any sheet of metal that creates an interlocking connection to the roof and any objects that extend from the roof, for example, chimneys, dormers, and pipes. They are constructed in an order that they block water from entering the joint.

Every house in America includes at most one vent pipe or other grate in the roof. Most likely, your previous house has a chimney or possibly a number of them.

Based on the level of your roof's complexity, there could be dormers, valleys, or many other features, which require flashing in order to eliminate rainwater. The flashing components that are neglected or not considered tend to be the most leak-prone parts of the roof. However, the positive side is that the majority of roofs can be removed within the areas of flashings made of steel and the work can be repaired or replaced to stop leaks.



The Different Types of Roof Flashing

Vent Boot

Vent boot, also known as the vent pipe covers, is usually an iron or lead sleeve that is placed on the top of a vent pipe on the roof to keep the area of the roofing around the pipe from water intrusion.

Valley Flashing

Valley flashing is made of metal or, in some cases, peel and stick that safeguards an important part on the roof, where two slopes join to create an elongated valley. A properly sized and placed valley flashing is essential in directing water safely off the roof.

Ridge Cap

A ridge cap can be described as the piece of roofing used to cover the ridge or peak of the roof. It is typically a kind of unique shingle, tile, or fabricated metal that is specifically made to help in the removal of debris and water. Because it is situated near the top of the roofing, only a little amount of water will reach the roof ridge with rain and not the lower areas of the roof that will be carrying large amounts of runoff.

Step Flashing

Step flashing is a small, rectangular metal piece erected in a shingle style at the junction between the wall and roof to keep water out of both the wall and roof and redirect water onto the roof and off the building.

Cricket

A "cricket" is a framed triangular construction constructed over an existing pitched or flat roof. The design of the structure directs water away from these areas to stop leaks. Because of their sharp shift of angles, areas such as chimneys, dormers, and other major holes in roofs require crickets.

Common Problems with Roof Flashing

Corrosion

In many instances where an older house was constructed using what we call a "lifetime" roof material, such as slate or tiles roofing, it was typical to install fasteners and flashings that were made from metal, which is corrosive.

Tin, also known as "terne" metal (a steel coated on both sides with an alloy made of lead and tin), was frequently used in older houses. It was a highly durable material that lasted for a long time; however, it is susceptible to rust if it's not coated with paint. Galvanized flashings of metal will gradually become rusty over time. Plastic components, as well as gaskets made of neoprene, will eventually be damaged by ultraviolet light and heat.

Incorrect Repair or Installation

If you don't have a completely repaired roof, the chances are there are some questionable repairs in the roof that might not be visible from the surface. A lot of roofing experts, even those who are working on traditional roofs, are taught the use of petrochemicals as a method of sealing joints and preventing leaks.