If your roof flashing is starting to leak, it is time to repair it. Here are some tips for repairing roof flashing: Understand how the material should be sized and what repairs are required. Make sure to inspect your roof flashing regularly for damage. Corrosion, size, and Step flashing are all common problems with roof flashing. Repairing them is an easy and affordable way to keep your roof in good condition.
Step flashing
If you have a leaking roof, one of the first things to look for is damaged step flashing. These are often used where the shingles meet the walls, allowing water to drain down the slope. Over time, step flashing can become loose or rusted, and you need to replace it. If you notice a crack in the step flashing, pry off the siding or shingles and look underneath. Misplaced nails will also expose the step flashing. Before replacing step-to-step flashing, remove old mortar or caulk from the area. Carefully chip away any caulk or mortar that may be present. Apply a silicone or urethane roofing cement layer on the cap and step-to-step flashing joint. Make sure to apply the caulking at least two inches away from the edge of the shingles so that water cannot penetrate the step-to-step flashing.
Step flashing is one of the most challenging roofing jobs. It will take a long time to complete unless you’ve done it. For best results, install the flashing before the shingles are installed. Make sure to remove the siding first to install step-to-step flashing. It should extend eight to 14 inches above the shingles. If you want to add additional steps, consider adding counter-flashing.
Continuous flashing
Generally, a roofing contractor will use continuous flashing from Klauer on your roof to protect your home from leaks and water damage. This roofing material is made from galvanized steel and installed along the roof edges to keep water from entering your home. It is installed around chimneys, vent stacks, dormer windows, and other features on the roof to direct water to gutters. Despite its name, roof flashing does not replace a roof’s shingles.
Continuous flashing is the most common type of roofing material. However, inexperienced contractors often use it on sidewalls perpendicular to the roof slope. This type of flashing is less likely to stop water from leaking because it tends to break off entirely. Therefore, the water will run down the metal strip and into the plywood decking. A better and time-tested method is to use step flashing on sidewalls.
Corrosion
A roof has many features, and roof flashing is no exception. While flashing is usually more durable than other roof elements, it can begin to show signs of wear and tear. If not installed correctly, holes can develop, and rust will form. Eventually, severe weather will pull a portion of the flashing away from the roof, causing leaks. Bends and cracks in the flashing can also weaken the metal structure, allowing for corrosion.
Copper is an excellent material for roofing flashing. It is inexpensive and easy to solder, and it is corrosion-resistant. Copper flashings should never come into contact with galvanized steel. Use copper or stainless steel nails instead of galvanized ones. Unpainted copper will oxidize and develop a green patina, protecting the underlying copper. Runoff from the oxidation will produce blue-green stains on the siding.
Aluminum flashing is often made of aluminum, but it should not come into contact with wood, as this will cause the metal to rust. Aluminum flashing will also rust if it comes into contact with pressure-treated wood and treated wood, so you should be sure that the metal doesn’t come in contact with wood. If this happens, you can use peel-and-stick flashing tape. Then, you can install copper flashing with a copper roof, as long as you don’t put any pressure on the metal.
Size
The size of roof flashing can be important for many reasons. Ensure it is wide enough to cover your vent pipe. If installing an electrical or plumbing vent, ensure the flashing is large enough to fit around it. You should select a size just a little bit bigger than the diameter of the pipe to avoid leaking. You can get a three-in-one roof flashing that can fit multiple vent pipes and is easy to install.