The Best Roof Flashing Types and Materials for Your Property

Ensuring the protection of your property against leaks and water damage is of utmost importance, and one vital element in achieving this is roof flashing. If you have ever wondered what roof flashing is, we will provide some answers. Roof flashing acts as a vigorous barrier, creating a watertight seal at vulnerable areas where different roofing components intersect, such as valleys, chimneys, skylights, vents, and dormers. By effectively diverting water away from these spots, roof flashing plays a paramount role in maintaining the integrity of your roof and preventing costly water-related issues. 

When selecting the best roof flashing types and materials, it’s essential to consider factors such as durability, longevity, compatibility with your roofing system, and the specific needs of your property. Whether you’re a homeowner or a roofing professional, understanding the different types of roof flashing materials is crucial.

Hence, this comprehensive blog will explore different roof flashing types and materials, so keep reading!

Roof Flashing Types

In order to make a well-informed decision about the best way to protect your roof from water, you have to first familiarize yourself with the various roof flashing types available on the market.

Step Flashing

Step flashing is a common form used to seal the joint between a roof and a vertical structure like a chimney or dormer. The advantage of this type of flashing is that water can flow down the stepped design without getting trapped in the cracks between the individual sections. In order to ensure durability and lifespan, step flashing is often made from metals like aluminum or galvanized steel.

Valley Flashing

A valley flashing is used whenever two sloping sections of a roof converge, and this type of flashing guarantees that water flows out of the valley without pooling. Flexible materials like rubber or PVC are also acceptable for use in valley flashing, in addition to metal. Remember that factors like roof pitch and weather must be considered when deciding on a material.

Chimney Flashing

Chimney flashing is installed where the chimney meets the roof to prevent water damage and penetration. Counter flashing is built into a brick chimney’s mortar joints, and base flashing is inserted beneath the roofing material. If you want to keep water out of the area surrounding your chimney, make sure the flashing is installed correctly. If you’re unsure how to do that properly, hire a professional roofer who knows what he’s doing. 

Vent Pipe Flashing

As the name suggests, vent pipe flashing is used around roof penetrations, such as pipes or vents. It prevents water from entering the roof through the penetrations by forming a watertight seal. The flashing around a vent pipe can be either metal, rubber, plastic with a rubber boot around the pipe and a metal base flashing built into the roof.

Drip Edge 

Water is diverted away from the fascia and into the gutters by drip edge, which is put along the roof’s edges. It protects the underlying structure from decay and water damage by preventing water from penetrating it. Metal drip edge is the most common, and it comes in a wide range of shapes and sizes to accommodate different roofing configurations. 

Skylight Flashing

Skylight flashing is designed specifically for skylight installations. It creates a watertight barrier that prevents water from getting into the roof through the skylight. Each skylight style requires unique flashing to ensure a tight seal and effective water resistance.

Roof Flashing Materials

Various types of flashing materials, including metal flashing, are available on the market, each with unique features, benefits, and applications. This section will highlight the ones mostly used in the roofing industry.

Copper Flashing

The durability and attractiveness of copper make it a popular choice for flashing. As time passes, it acquires a stunning patina that will make your roof one of a kind. Copper can last many years and is impervious to corrosion or even the harshest climates. In high-quality construction, it is often utilized as flashing around chimneys and dormers.

Aluminum Flashing

Flashing made of aluminum is another common choice for roofs. It’s comparable to galvanized steel flashing in its usefulness but is far more resistant to rust and corrosion.  Aluminum’s light weight is an added benefit, making it easy to work with. 

Steel Flashing

Steel flashing stands out as the prevailing choice among flashing materials. Renowned for its affordability, durability, and exceptional resistance to corrosion when galvanized, it has become a staple in the construction industry.

How to Install Roofing Flashing?

Roofing flashing installation is essential for a safe and waterproof roof.  Below are some tips on how to put flashing on a roof:

• Gather the necessary tools and material
• Prepare the area
• Shape the flashing
• Install the base flashing
• Install the step flashing (if applicable)
• Install counter flashing
• Apply sealant and waterproofing
• Inspect and maintain

Keep in mind that the installation procedure may change according to the flashing material, the type of roof, and local building codes. For in-depth guidance and requirements for your roofing project, it is advised to follow manufacturer recommendations or to seek expert assistance.

Get Ahead of Leaks and Water Damage with Fortified Roofing’s Professional Flashing Solutions

Our company was founded in 2001, and we specialize in roof replacement services in Cherry Hill, Marlton, Voorhees, Middletown, Toms River, Monmouth County, Middlesex County, Ocean County, and the surrounding Southern New Jersey and Central New Jersey areas. We strongly emphasize our employees’ education and professional development. This commitment allows us to stay ahead of the competition and establish ourselves as the leading company in the field of roofing. By providing a service that surpasses expectations and sets new standards, we continually strive to redefine excellence in our industry.

Another thing that sets us apart from run-of-the-mill contractors is that our company is among less than 3% of contractors holding the prestigious GAF Master Elite certification.

Whether you need new roof flashing or you are simply seeking information, Fortified Roofing, Sicklerville Roofing Contractor, is here for you!