Different Types and Installation Techniques of Roof Flashing

As you prepare for a roof replacement, you can probably picture your team of roofers tearing off shingles and installing new ones. One often overlooked part of the process however, is installing flashing. Without well-installed flashing, any roof becomes vulnerable to water penetration which can lead to mounting problems over time. 

Here, we’ll take a quick but thorough look at the roof flashing essentials every homeowner should be aware of.

What Is Roof Flashing?

Even if you didn’t know what it was called until now, you have likely seen roof flashing before. These protective strips are installed at the points of your roof that are most vulnerable to moisture and water damage to strengthen your roof and make it more effective in its “mission” of protecting your home from the elements. Flashing is usually made from different kinds of metal, including copper, aluminum and steel. However, non-metal options are also available in the form of self-adhesive strips, rubber, and bitumen for certain applications. 

Homeowners gearing up for a new roof should take the challenges involved in installing roof flashing into account as they select the best roofing contractors for the job, because proper installation takes training, skill, and experience. 

When roof flashing isn’t installed correctly, water can seep into your home — causing mold, mildew, and (hidden) water damage. 

Let’s take a look at the different roof flashing types your roofers will likely install when they replace your roof. 

Step Flashing

Step flashing commonly protects your property where your roof meets a sidewall. Its name comes from the way it’s installed — in an overlapping, step-by-step fashion. This kind of flashing creates a watertight seal that directs water away from your home to prevent leaks. 

Counter Flashing

Counter flashing can best be described as “flashing on top of flashing.” It essentially “seals the deal” where other types of flashing have already been installed. You’ll usually see counter flashing around chimneys or walls. Counter flashing, which is especially tricky to install, is sometimes embedded directly into the masonry and bent into step flashing to make sure it forms a tight seal. 

Valley Flashing

Have you ever noticed the “dip” at the point where two roof slopes intersect? Roofers call these points valleys — and just like you see with actual valleys, water naturally follows their path when it rains. Valley flashing ensures that this uniquely vulnerable point of your roof remains strong, guarding your property against water penetration. It is typically fastened with screws or nails. 

Drip Edge Flashing

Drip edges come in handy at the points where your roof overhangs your walls — the rakes and eaves. These protective layers are designed to shield your fascia but also to prevent a gradual buildup of water right under your roof, where it could wreak havoc. Your team of roofers will nail this flashing into place while ensuring that it properly overlaps with your shingles or other roofing material. 

Pipe Flashing

Pipe flashing creates a watertight seal around piping and other protrusions. While metal flashing is the most common flashing material, pipe flashing is more likely to be made from flexible materials. Your roofers will slide the base of the flashing over pipes and other penetrations while the remaining portion is secured directly to the roof deck. 

Got Questions About Roof Flashing? Call Fortified Roofing Today!

Are you wondering how to install roof flashing? You’re already ahead of many homeowners in recognizing that flashing is essential to a sturdy, durable, and well-installed roof. 

If you have any questions about roofing in Woodbridge, NJ, including roof flashing, don’t hesitate to get in touch with the Fortified Roofing team! With decades of combined experience in the field, we’re a local roofing company you can trust.