Roof Flashing Flash Briefing: How To Choose The Best Types Of Flashing For Each Job

When it comes to roofs, it is important to make sure they are protected from water. This is where roof flashing comes in handy. Flashing is designed to protect roofing shingles and make sure the roof doesn’t leak. At the same time, there are multiple types of flashing from which to choose. It is important for all roofing contractors to know about the different types of flashing because they each play a pivotal role in keeping water flowing off of the rooftop instead of under the shingles and into the home.

Drip Edge Flashing

Along the edges of the roofs, which are called the eaves, drip edge flashing is required to prevent water from the gutters from overflowing onto the edge of the roof’s shingles. Water can easily circle the last shingle or come up underneath the edges of the shingles during a sideways thunderstorm. In order to prevent this from happening, it is important to make sure the roof is protected by an L-bend style run of flashing, such as copper flashing. If there is no drip edge flashing on the roof, then the wood fascia board is going to be the first casualty, which will start to rot or grow mold. Water can quickly destroy the roof deck and the drywall without enough drip edge flashing.

Valley Flashing

Another important type of flashing is called valley flashing. Valley flashing is installed before the asphalt shingles are added to the roof. Valley flashing is placed in areas of the roof where two separate sections meet at a joint and form a dipping angle. Valleys are the most common areas where shingles erode and lead to roof leaks. The goal of valley flashing is to prevent this from happening. Valley flashing is usually shaped in either a V or a W. It runs from the joint to the drip edge, where it needs to overlap slightly. Valley flashing should always be sealed with roof cement.

Step Flashing

Next, it is important to review the role that step flashing plays. Any home that has a chimney is going to have step flashing around it to make sure the water moves past the chimney and off of the roof. In addition, step flashing is commonly added around skylights and other roof features as well. With step flashing, it usually looks like a set of scales. They are tightly overlapped under each course of shingles. Galvanized roof nails and roofing cement is commonly added to keep this flashing in place, preventing water from sneaking underneath it. Step flashing usually has to be resistant to wind as well to prevent from being torn away.

Vent Pipe Flashing

Finally, it is time to look at vent pipe flashing. This is a specialized type of flashing that is specifically designed to fit over round pipes that sit on the roof. This is cylindrical flashing that has a flange at the bottom that lies flush with the rest of the roof. Vents are a major weak area when it comes to roof leaks. Therefore, vent pipe flashing is among the most important types of flashing available.

These are just a few of the most popular types of flashing. Whether you need roll flashing, copper flashing, or pipe flashing, Roofing Direct has you covered. Take a look at our options for flashing for a roofin contractor today and make sure that you are ready for your next roofing project!