A leaking roof rings a bell immediately — did my roof flashing crack or got damaged? If it doesn’t, allow us to enlighten you with what goes into the roof flashing process to keep the water out.

Roof flashing is thin sheets of metal used to seal joints and direct water away from seeping into the building structure. Typically, these metal sheets are comprised of aluminum, copper, or galvanized sheet metal. The flashing is exposed to external elements, which makes it vulnerable to wear and tear over time.

Why Use Flashing In The Roof?

Although the roof serves as a protective blanket for you and your loved ones, it remains vulnerable to leakage and water damage. Metal flashings are installed in areas of the roof where two surfaces come together, where the water runoff is heavier, or around protrusions (such as chimneys). Highly susceptible problematic areas include roof valleys, chimneys, skylight perimeters, and roof surfaces of dormer walls. Roof flashing may differ based on the area of the roof, style, and design; here’s a closer look at different types of roof flashing:

Chimney

The chimney needs to be packed from all angles since it’s highly susceptible to leaks —flashing is placed at the chimney base and surrounds the protrusion. It’s then secured together and sealed at all angles and joints.+

Step or Wall

Step flashing is installed when addressing a vertical wall connected to or directly coming into contact with a sloped roof. Step flashing can be installed in a straight line or using a “shark tooth” pattern.

Valleys

Shaped like a “V,” this flashing protects the valleys where two roof planes meet and extend towards the eavestroughs.

Vent Pipe

Another high-risk area is the region where pipes penetrate the roof. A vent pipe flashing (or collar) offers exclusive coverage for the pipes and the flues. It’s shaped into a cone with a flange base to cling onto the shingles.

Get your metal roof flashing and other roof services from Warner Roofing. We’re a multi-award-winning roofing company serving residential homes in York Region. Our professionally trained, well-equipped, and experienced roofing contractors provide services for roof repairs, roof replacements, metal roofing, roofing carpentry, metal flashing, vents & accessories, skylights, insulation, and flat roofs in Aurora, Newmarket, Stouffville, Richmond Hill, and Vaughan. Get a quote today from the best roofers in town.