How Important Is Roof Flashing?

Wherever there are spots on a commercial or residential roofing system that are prone to leaks, roofers install roof flashing. Such spots include joints between different parts of the roof, such as skylights, vents, chimneys, etc. Without flashing, those areas will be penetrated by moisture.

Flashing is typically made of corrosion-resistant metals, but you can also find flashing that’s made of plastic or composite material. For difficult-to-reach areas, it’s typically advisable to use a corrosion-resistant and highly durable metal because it’s virtually impossible to clean those areas, and it’s not easy to replace flashing there.

Flashing directs water away from the areas it protects and into the gutters for faster draining and to protect your roof from water damage.

When Flashing Fails

You probably don’t realize it, but most roof leaks begin when flashing fails. There are three situations that commonly lead to flashing failure:

• Changes in temperature: If the temperature in your area alternates between freezing and baking, as is the case during the winter season, some materials – such as wood, shingles, metal and others – shrink and expand as quickly. Cyclical temperatures often force flashing to pull away from the surface, compromising its ability to protect that surface.
• Mismatches in the roof specs: During a residential roof replacement, the materials and all components of the roofing system should match. But if the original specs are unavailable, the roofer should be able to draft good plans for your roof’s protection. If not, it might lead to mismatching materials, including flashing. If flashing is forced to protect a roof it doesn’t match, it can fail in a short time.
• Poor installation: This is why roofing is not a DIY activity. When you install flashing, you should be an expert in doing so. That’s why a reputable roofing contractor offers advantages. If the flashing and other parts of the roof are not installed properly, the flashing could fail. 

Why It Should Concern You

Flashing failure should concern you because without flashing’s ability to protect the vulnerable parts of your roof, such as rooftop installations, valleys and roof intersections, it’s only a matter of time before leaks start causing damage. One tiny leak can easily become a gushing hole if the conditions are right.

Leaks don’t only compromise your roofing system, which is one of the most expensive parts of your house, but they can also damage every other part of your home, including the walls and foundations.

How to Address the Problem

The only way to address flashing problems is to hire a professional for a thorough inspection. A pro is more likely to spot the problem than an inexperienced individual. By finding the problem or problems early, your roofer can apply the necessary roof repair or replacement.

Get in touch with Crown Roofing LTD , your trusted roofing company. Call us today at (604) 370-6288, or tell us about your project here. We would be happy to help you in Surrey and in North Vancouver.