5 Types of Roof Flashing & Why It’s Important for Your Roof

When it comes to protecting your home, roof flashing plays an essential role in keeping your roof durable and leak-free. Roof flashing is a thin barrier, usually made from metal, installed in areas where the roof meets vertical structures, such as chimneys, walls, and vents. Its primary purpose is to divert water away from these vulnerable points to prevent leaks and water damage.

Whether you’re planning to install roof flashing on a newly constructed home or need to repair roof flashing on an existing roof, understanding its types and purposes is crucial for long-term protection. Here’s what we’ll cover in this post:

• What roof flashing is and why it’s necessary for every home
• The five different types of roof flashing and how they’re used
• Why there’s no room to compromise when it comes to quality installation and materials

Why Is Roof Flashing Important?

Your roof is often the first barrier between your home and the elements. But even the most well-built roofs have vulnerable spots where water can easily seep through. Roof flashing, when properly installed, acts as an additional layer of protection around these areas.

Water infiltration can quickly lead to serious issues such as mold growth, wood rot, damaged interiors, or costly structural repairs. Flashing prevents this by directing water safely away from these weak points and into the gutter system. This vital component doesn’t just save you money on repairs; it also extends the life of your roof.

Now, let’s dig deeper into the various types of roof flashing and how each type addresses specific roofing challenges.

The 5 Main Types of Roof Flashing

Roof flashing comes in a variety of styles and materials, each serving specific purposes based on the design and needs of your roof. Here are the five most common types and how they’re used.

1. Step Flashing

• What It Is: Step flashing consists of small, rectangular pieces of flashing installed in a “step” pattern along roof intersections where the shingles meet a vertical wall.
• Where It’s Used: Step flashing is typically installed around dormers, skylights, and chimney bases to prevent water from slipping into the gaps between the shingles and vertical structures.
• Why It’s Important: The overlapping design of step flashing provides extra layers of protection and ensures proper water drainage while maintaining a seamless look. Without it, water would easily flow into the crevices where the roof and wall meet.

2. Continuous Flashing

• What It Is: Also known as “apron flashing,” continuous flashing is a long, unbroken piece of flashing that stretches along a horizontal joint.
• Where It’s Used: Commonly used at the base of a chimney or other vertical intersections, continuous flashing ensures that water is carried off the roof efficiently.
• Why It’s Important: Its simplicity provides a smooth surface for water to flow over. To prevent water pooling, it often requires a weep hole or expansion joint to allow for thermal expansion and contraction.

3. Valley Flashing

• What It Is: Valley flashing is specially designed to protect the areas where two roof planes meet to form a valley, creating a natural drainage pathway for rainwater.
• Where It’s Used: You’ll find valley flashing in roof valleys, where water tends to flow heavily during rainstorms.
• Why It’s Important: Roof valleys are some of the most vulnerable parts of any roof. Without durable valley flashing, water could easily damage shingles and seep underneath the roofing materials.

4. Chimney Flashing

• What It Is: Chimney flashing is a specialized type of roof flashing that comes in multiple parts, combining step flashing and counter flashing to fully seal the base of a chimney.
• Where It’s Used: This is exclusively used around chimneys, where gaps between the roof shingles and chimney can become major entry points for water.
• Why It’s Important: Since chimneys can shift slightly over time due to temperature changes, chimney flashing helps accommodate movement while maintaining a waterproof seal.

5. Drip Edge Flashing

• What It Is: Drip edge is a flat metal strip installed along the edges of the roof to guide water into the gutters and protect the fascia.
• Where It’s Used: Along the perimeter of the roof, especially at the eaves and rakes.
• Why It’s Important: Drip edge prevents water from soaking into the shingles or fascia boards, reducing the likelihood of rot and water damage. It also provides a finished look to the roofline.

Materials Used for Roof Flashing

Roof flashing is typically made from durable, weather-resistant materials to ensure it can withstand the elements. Here’s an overview of the most commonly used materials for flashing:

• Aluminum: Lightweight, easy to shape, and rust-resistant, aluminum is a popular material for roof flashing. However, it may corrode if installed in contact with concrete or masonry.
• Copper: Highly durable and aesthetically pleasing, copper flashing is ideal for long-term projects but comes at a premium cost.
• Galvanized Steel: Economical and strong, galvanized steel resists corrosion and provides reliable protection against leaks.
• Lead: Still used in some applications, lead flashing is flexible and long-lasting, although it’s less common due to environmental concerns.
• Rubber or PVC: These non-metal options are occasionally used for specific applications, such as vent pipe flashing, where flexibility is beneficial.

The right roofing material depends on your budget, roofing design, and desired longevity.

6 Key Steps for Installing Roof Flashing

Proper installation is critical to ensuring that roof flashing performs its job effectively. Below are the key steps involved in the process, presented as a step-by-step structure for better clarity.

1. Prep the Surface: Before installing roof flashing, ensure that the surface is clean and free from debris. This helps the flashing adhere securely and prevents gaps.
2. Cut the Flashing Material: Measure the area where the flashing will be installed and cut the material to the appropriate size, ensuring clean, even edges.
3. Apply a Waterproof Barrier: Install a waterproof underlayment or sealant beneath the flashing to provide an additional layer of protection against water penetration.
4. Secure the Flashing: Using nails or screws, attach the flashing to the roof or wall structure. Be sure to use materials specifically designed for roofing and waterproofing to ensure durability.
5. Overlap and Seal Joints: Overlapping the edges of roof flashing is essential for creating a cohesive water barrier. Additionally, use roofing sealant to seal any joints, corners, or exposed points where water could seep through.
6. Finish with Quality Shingles or Trim: Once the flashing is secured, install shingles or trim over the edges to create a seamless and polished look. This also provides added protection for areas where the flashing meets other elements.

When installed properly, roof flashing can significantly reduce the risk of leaks and extend the life of your roof.

Common Roof Flashing Problems and Repairs

Even the best roof flashing can experience wear and tear over time. Being aware of common issues can help you address problems before they escalate into major repairs.

🏚️ Cracks or Corrosion

Flashing materials like galvanized steel can develop cracks or corrosion over time, especially in areas with harsh weather conditions. Regular inspections and timely repairs can prolong their lifespan.

❌ Improper Sealing

If flashing is not adequately sealed during installation, water can seep through gaps, undermining its effectiveness. Use high-quality sealants to resolve this issue.

💨 Loose Flashing

High winds and temperature changes can sometimes loosen flashing from its place. Refastening loose flashing and sealing any gaps is crucial for maintaining a watertight barrier.

If your roof flashing requires professional repair, trust experienced contractors to ensure the job is done right.

Trust Embry’s Roofing for Reliable Roof Flashing Solutions

Your roof deserves nothing less than the best protection, and that starts with high-quality roof flashing. Whether you need to install roof flashing for a new roof or repair roof flashing that’s no longer performing its job, Embry’s Roofing has you covered.

Our team of expert roofers combines years of experience with industry-best materials to deliver outstanding results. We are dedicated to helping homeowners protect their properties while boosting curb appeal.

Give your roof the protection it deserves. Contact Embry’s Roofing today and see why so many homeowners trust us for their roofing needs.