Roof Flashing: Definition and Importance

Most people don’t even know what roof flashing is, and this makes it almost criminally underrated.

And, this is a shame because roof flashing is a critical component of your roof.

What Is Flashing?

Flashing is that part of your roof that prevents leaks. Leaks in this case often mean rain water. They act as a final line of defense against interior heat loss.

Flashing is usually made of strips of material, usually metal, that are bent, shaped and applied anywhere on the roof where there are seams or gaps due to the way the roof is constructed. For example, they’re usually found on valleys, eaves, around chimneys or other penetrations, and so on. A steep-slope roofing contractor will also apply flashing on areas where two different roofing materials meet, such as where asphalt shingles meet a layer of metal.

Flashing is traditionally made from aluminum, but in recent years, other materials have become more commonplace. Flashing materials now include stainless steel, lead, rubber and even liquid (that hardens when exposed to water). The only requirement in flashing is that it should be waterproof and resists corrosion.

Why Is Flashing Important?

On any roof, the most common weak points are joints and any penetration, such as vents and skylights. Because these areas often create a gap or seam, flashing is applied to these areas to seal them from water. Without flashing, your roof will leak, leading to water damage on the roof and eventually in the entire house.

Turn to Jack the Roofer, the best roof repair contractor in the area. Call us today at (720) 722-2255, or fill out our contact form to learn more about roof flashing. We serve residents of Parker, CO, and nearby areas.