Importance of roof flashing in preventing roof leaks

If you’re new to term “roof flashing," there must be many questions going in your mind. What is roof flashing? How does it help to prevent roof leaks? Do you want get answers to all your questions? If yes, it’s time to get familiar with roof flashing and its importance in preventing roof leaks. Although you can get ample information about roof flashing on search engines, professional contractors of roof repair and roofing maintenance in Long Island can provide you with the best information that you can trust. Here we’re happy to clear all your queries. Read below all the important things you need to know about roof flashing. 

What Is Roof Flashing?

It is usually comprised of aluminum, copper, or galvanized metal sheet. The basic role of flashing is to work as a seal between the roof joints, which helps in keeping water out of the roof. Roof flashing plays an integral role in preventing leaks in your roof. What kind of material one should choose for roof flashing? While most of the homes have galvanized sheet metal, a copper roof usually feature a copper flashing. If homeowners install the flashing by themselves, aluminum is the best choice because it's easy to install and is affordable.

How roof flashing helps in preventing roof leaks?

Certain parts of the roof tend to be more susceptible to water leaks and damage, and flashing can act as an extra layer of protection. Some of the areas that are more vulnerable to leaks and damage are as follows:

• Roof valleys
• Chimneys
• Skylight perimeters
• Roof surface of dorner walls

In simple words, any area that has two surfaces coming together to meet. Often water runoff seems to be heavier, so effective and secure roof flashing is important.

Different types of roof flashing

Roof flashing comes in different fits for different parts of the roof. It is very common for the flashing to vary from one house to another, depending on the design and style of the roof. Here are some of the flashing types you can find on the roof.

Chimney Flashing - It is present at the chimney base.

Cap Flashing - This is another important flashing for a chimney that offer an extra protective layer to prevent water leaks. Cap flashing usually hangs over the edge of the other flashings.

Step Flashing - Sloped flashing is installed to a sloped roof or vertical wall.

Integral Flashing - It accompanies step flashing.

Saddle Flashing - It commonly present at the top areas such as railing attachments and joints.

If you want to know more about roof flashing, you can approach professional roof installation and repair contractors. To hire the reliable, experienced roofing maintenance providers in Long Island, contact King Sliding and Gutters - 631-830-1100.