What Is Roof Flashing and What Happens When It Fails?
Roof flashing is a small piece of metal or plastic placed in a roof valley, around roof vents, or at the junction of two roofs to prevent water from entering.
A roof flashing fails when it becomes loose, cracked, or torn. If water infiltration occurs as a result of a failed roof flashing, it can cause damage to the interior of your home and can lead to the growth of mold and mildew.
What Happens If It Fails?
Flashing can fail for several reasons, including poor installation, age, or severe weather conditions. When flashing fails, it can cause significant water damage to the roof and the home.
Water damage can lead to mold growth, wood rot, and structural damage. If you suspect that your roof flashing is damaged, it is important to have it inspected and repaired by a professional as soon as possible.
Why Do Roofs Require Flashing?
Flashing is an important part of the roofing system because it prevents water from seeping into the home. Water damage can occur when water leaks through the roof and home.
Flashing is installed over joints in the roofing to create a barrier that stops water from leaking through. Flashing is also used around chimneys, skylights, and vents to seal these openings and prevent water damage.
What Happens If You Don’t Repair a Leak?
Roof leaks can cause significant damage to the home if they are not repaired on time. Water damage can lead to mold growth, wood rot, and structural damage. If you suspect that your roof is leaking, it is important to have it inspected and repaired by a professional as soon as possible. Ignoring a roof leak can be very costly in the long run.
Types of Flashing
There are several types of flashing that are used in roofing, including:
- Galvanized steel flashing: This type of flashing is made of galvanized steel and is often used around chimneys, skylights, and vents.
- Copper flashing: Copper flashing is a form of flashing that’s made of copper and is frequently used around chimneys and vents.
- Aluminum flashing: This type of flashing is made of aluminum and is often used around skylights and vents.
- Lead flashing: This type of flashing is made of lead and is often used around chimneys and vents.
- Chimney flashing: It seals the joints between the chimney and the roof. Chimney flashing is typically made of galvanized steel, copper, aluminum, or lead. When chimney flashing fails, it can cause significant water damage to the roof and the home.
Get In Touch!
If you think your roof needs new flashing or if you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us! We would be happy to help.