Your roof does a lot more than protect you and your family from the weather. A roof provides structural support for your home and regulates the indoor temperature so that you stay comfortable. Beyond the protective functions, your roof also adds to the curb appeal of your home. Although many homeowners are familiar with some of the components that make up their home’s roof, like shingles and insulation, many people are unfamiliar with the purpose of roof flashing. Once you learn more about the types and purpose of roof flashing, you’ll understand why it is important to hire our experienced roofers at Roofing & Construction Solutions to install and maintain your roof flashing.
What Is Roof Flashing?
Roof flashing is a protective material that diverts water away from the areas of your roof where water can enter your home. This includes your roof’s joints, seams, and intersections. Wear and tear in these areas can allow water to intrude into your home. Water intrusion is a common but serious problem that can cause water damage and mold growth.
Roof flashing resists the elements that can cause structural damage to your home. Crafted from durable materials like galvanized steel or aluminum, these materials resist corrosion and weather damage. No matter which material you use, roof flashing creates a watertight barrier that protects your home from water and debris.
Types of Roof Flashing
An experienced roofer will consider several factors when selecting the right type of flashing for your home. Your roof’s design, material type, pitch, and slope will determine which roof flashing you need. Our roofer also will consider Winter Park’s climate and building codes. Finally, the roofer also will take your budget and aesthetic goals into account. Depending on these factors, our roofers may install one of these roof flashing types.
Step Flashing
If your roof has sidewalls, chimneys, or dormers, you may need step flashing. This type of roof flashing uses small, interwoven metal pieces that look like steps. Step flashing directs water away from the joint and creates a waterproof barrier. Our roofers will install step flashing like shingles. Each piece of step flashing creates a layer of the next piece.
Chimney Flashing
If your home has a chimney, you may need chimney flashing to protect against water intrusion. A chimney’s vertical design creates a vulnerable spot where it joins the roof. Bricks and stones used in building a chimney can absorb water. Mortar and mason can crack and allow water to enter. Chimney flashing uses both step flashing and counterflashing to protect your home from water intrusion.
Valley Flashing
When two roof slopes meet, the juncture creates a valley that can lead to water buildup. Valley flashing prevents pooling by moving water away from your roof’s valleys. This type of flashing consists of metal strips or sheets installed in an overlapping pattern.
Drip Edge Flashing
Your roof’s edges may need drip edge flashing. Drip edge flashing directs water away from the fascia. This flashing stops water from seeping into your home. Drip edge flashing bends at your roof’s edge and guides water into the gutter.
Vent Pipe Flashing
Water often enters your home through the vent pipes. Roof flashing can create a watertight seal around the pipes. This flashing is usually a rubber or neoprene gasket that fits around the vent pipe.
Why Your Home Needs Roof Flashing
Many customers ask why roof flashing is important for protecting their homes. Roof flashing reinforces areas of your roof by creating a waterproof seal over vulnerable areas of your roof. Without this flashing, water can infiltrate your home through joints, seams, chimneys, and vent pipes, causing water damage and structural problems. Roof flashing acts as a barrier against water intrusion.
Your Winter Park Roofing Experts
At Roofing & Construction Solutions, we offer more than just roof flashing installation and maintenance to homeowners in Winter Park. Our team of roofing contractors can inspect and repair your roof. We also offer new roof installation. Our team can install your new shingle, tile, metal, or Thermoplastic Polyolefin (TPO) roof. If your roof experienced damage from a storm or hurricane, we also offer storm damage repair.
Contact our team of expert roofers at Roofing & Construction Solutions for your roof flashing installation in Winter Park!
