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Why Roof Flashing Is Important for Your Roof

By Applied Roofing Services

Oct 12, 2018

Roofing

Roof Flashing

Roof flashing is an essential component of a roof which needs to be installed correctly to ensure a long-lasting and waterproof structure. Flashing plays a significant role in protecting your roof and has a host of advantages that you might be unaware of. Here is an overview of why good quality flashing is required in roofing systems.

What Is Roof Flashing?

Roof flashing is a weatherproofing system for roofs that involves placing strips of waterproof material (generally metal) on gaps in your roof to help prevent water seepage. These strips of metal are fitted between the exterior roofing layer and the waterproofing film called felts. Flashing helps seal these off just like sealants and caulking do in the areas close to the windows and gutter seams. In addition to galvanized steel, materials like rubber and plastic, aluminum, and copper are also used by roofers.

The following are some of the common types of roof flashing:

  • Valley Flashing
  • Drip Edge
  • Vent Pipe
  • Step and Continuous Flashing

Why Roof Flashing Matters

Today, flashing is considered a vital construction practice, and it's extensively used in commercial, residential and industrial buildings. Flashing plays a key role for several reasons including:

  • Without the right flashing, a roof could be susceptible to leaks, which reduces its lifespan significantly.

  • It provides additional protection from leaks in areas that are vulnerable to expansion, contraction or the accumulation of precipitation such as ice and snow.

  • It offers a waterproof barrier to the roof that accumulates water seeping through it and diverts it back out of the roof.

  • Flashing decreases the risks of leaks in the building interiors and also stops moisture related development of mold or damp.

  • The flashing membrane also stops insects from gaining access into the roof and cause damage to the roof structure.

  • Flashing delivers an aesthetic charm by outlining the roof edges to make them appear sleek, neat and polished.

Since flashing protects vulnerable parts of a roofing system, it normally makes sense to get it inspected regularly by roofing professionals to ensure that your flashing stays in shape.

Contact us today to get a complimentary roofing estimate quote or to learn more about our excellent roofing services!

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