Whether you are building a new home, re-roofing, or repairing on older roof, there is one aspect of your home’s roof that must not be overlooked – proper flashing installation. In fact, the main area where ‘undamaged’ roofs will leak is around either improperly installed flashing, or old roof flashing. Unfortunately, improper installation of flashing is not uncommon because it is something a carpenter or other tradesperson may offer to do for you, but may not be as qualified as a professional metal roofer.
When dealing with most other areas of the house, many homeowners will try their hand at DIY projects, or they will hire a local person they know to do ‘simple’ home repair jobs. That’s alright, for other areas of the home, but not the roof. When it comes to ensuring that the largest investment of a person’s life – usually the home – is secure, then only having a professional roofing company to repair your roof, by installing proper flashing, is highly advised. Otherwise, the risk is to your home is too great, an improper installation of flashing can be very costly in water damage inside the areas of the home, if the flashing leaks.
Areas of the Roof that Need Proper Flashing Installation
Basically, wherever there are changes in the roof, either contrasting angles, adjoining slopes, or where different building material meet, flashing is used to protect against seepage of rain water gaining access to underneath the roof. Flashing comes in various materials, depending on the type of roofing, such as copper, galvanized metal, aluminium, plastics, sheet metal flashing, and the most common.
The area of the roof where flashing will be installed is also factors into what type of flashing material is used, it can be any place that requires additional protection, such as around vents, chimneys, skylights, and roof valleys.
Home Roof Inspection is the Best Assurance
Without proper training, improper flashing installation is almost guaranteed, which puts your home at risk. As an example, the wrong type nails can work loose, especially if not anchored properly, this can cause the flashing to pop up and allow rain to enter. So, if you notice moister around areas under your flashing, then you should have a professional roofer inspect your roof as soon as possible, to make sure the flashing is not damaged or improperly installed.
The best solution to ensure you investment is safe is to have your roof inspected, professional roofers can tell you the health and the condition of all your flashing.
