Roof flashing is important in ensuring there is protection of your home against water damage. It is like a shield, and it keeps off the water around joints and seams in your roof, like where the roof and the walls have to meet, or where the roof and the chimneys or skylights have to meet. Leaks, mold, and repair of water damages may be avoided through proper installation of roof flashing.
Explain the basics of roof flashing
Defining what is roof flashing
Roof flashing is a strip of material which is applied in strategic points of your roof in order to avoid water penetration. Flashing is normally constructed of metal, plastic or rubberized construction and is present around the roof junctions with other buildings. Good flashing will mean that the water always flows out of these locations as opposed to the leaks and damage of the roof structure as well as the interiors of your home.
Why roof flashing is important for your home
Roof flashing is used as a cover against water damage. Maintenance of a roof and the interior of your house is essential to be dry and free of the elements. The following is the reason why you should be interested in the roof flashing:
- Prevents leaks: Flashing causes the water to flow off your roof to parts that are not prone to leaks and this prevents the occurrence of leaks that may cause massive damage by water.
- Protects structural integrity: Flashing keeps the water out of the roof structure which may lead to rot, rust and other damages.
- Extends the lives of the roof: Appropriately maintained flashing will assist in protracting the existence of your roof since it will keep the dampness outside your roof to prevent untimely decadence and deterioration.
- Preserves home interior: Flashing prevents the interior of your home to be affected by mold, water stains and any other damages.
How to maintain roof flashing
Roof flashing has to be properly maintained in order to be effective. This is what to do to keep your flashing in good condition:
- Inspect regularly: Look at evidence of damage, i.e. cracks, rust, or holes in the flashing. Check these places following heavy rainfall of storms.
- Clean debris: Clean up spaces around the flashing of leaf and twig or other debris. This allows no trapping of water which may cause damages.
- Check seals: Do not leave check seals around your flashing unchecked. Any loopholes may permit trickling of water.
- Replacement of damaged flashing: in case you see damaged or corroded flashing, then replace it so as to avoid water damage.
How to install roof flashing
Roof flashing is a task to be entrusted to professionals, but in case you are a DIYer, then this is the simple guide on how to start it:
- Prepare the space: Clean off the roof space of the garbage and examine the existing damage to the roofing materials.
- Measure and cut: Experts have to cut the flashing to the size of the area that it has to cover: making sure to cover all the joints and seams that water would escape through.
- Seal the edges: The sides of the flashing down can be held down with roofing cement or sealant. This will make sure that the water will not get under it.
- Install the flashing: Place the flashing as to bend around the roofline, so that it protrudes over the roofing material and covers up the walls or even chimneys.
- Seal around the flashing: A coating of roofing cement should be applied on the flashing to make the flashing water tight.
Finally
Flashing of your roof is a minor, yet very crucial element of your roof. It will keep your home dry and intact, it will also prolong the life of your roof and you will be enjoying your pristine and secure living environment.