When talking about any residential or commercial roofing work, the bulk of the discussion revolves around the materials to be used on the actual roof while very little focus is placed on flashing. This is a shame because flashing strips perform an extremely important role in keeping your roof protected against water penetration and other water-related damage.
The reason behind this lack of discussion about roof flashing is because not many people know, let alone understand, what it is and why it’s important. Let our roofing experts at MHI Roofing give you a quick overview of roof flashings and why it pays to give them the attention they deserve.
What Is Flashing?
Joints, intersections, and valleys are perhaps the most vulnerable areas of a roof. To reinforce these weak points, commercial and residential roofers will use strips of metal, bent to fit the corners and joints, as a cover. These metal strips are known as flashing. Metals like zinc, copper, and stainless steel are commonly used for flashing but it’s not uncommon to see rubber or plastic variants, as well.
Caring for Your Flashing
Most of the time, flashing strips are visible even from the ground. However, not all flashing follow these same rules. Some strips are installed behind other roofing parts or even under some support structures. The best way to ensure proper maintenance is to contact a professional roofer. Inspections are best done at least once every 2 to 3 years.
Common Flashing Problems
Most homes will not need roofing replacement for a good 15 to 100 years, depending on the type of material you have. However, without good flashing, the life span of any roof is severely cut short. Improper application and common issues like rust and corrosion can impair the performance of your flashing. This is why it’s important to replace them as soon as they show signs of deterioration.
At MHI Roofing, we can help you build a watertight roofing system with proper flashing installation. Give us a call at (412) 203-8129 or fill out our contact form to schedule a inspection and request a free inspection today.