Flashing 101 — What Every New Homeowner Needs To Know
If you're like many new homeowners, you probably already know that maintaining your own home is far more complex than renting a house or apartment — but you may not be familiar with some of the finer points of home maintenance, such as what flashing is and why it's important. Here's what you need to know about flashing and
Flashing is a thin sheet of metal or other material that is used to seal and protect the joints, corners, and other areas of a roof. Flashing is an important element of a roofing system because it helps to prevent water from seeping into the structure of the building.
Flashing is typically installed around areas where the roof meets the walls of the building, around chimneys, and around any protrusions or openings in the roof. It is usually made of metal, such as aluminum, copper, or galvanized steel, although it can also be made of plastic or other materials.
Flashing is important for several reasons:
- Flashing helps to prevent water from seeping into the building through joints, corners, and other areas where the roof meets the walls or other structures. This is especially important in areas prone to heavy rain or snowfall.
- By preventing water from entering the building, flashing helps to protect the roof and extend its lifespan. It also helps to prevent damage to the interior of the building, which can be costly to repair.
- Flashing can add a finished look to the roof, making it look more attractive and well-maintained.
Here are some steps you can take to maintain your flashing:
- Clean the flashing regularly to remove dirt, leaves, and other debris that can accumulate on it.
- Check the flashing for signs of rust, corrosion, or other damage, and repair or replace it as needed.
- Make sure that the flashing is properly sealed and secured to the roof.
- Inspect the flashing around pipes, vents, and other openings in the roof to ensure that it is in good condition and properly sealed.
- Keep an eye out for leaks or other signs of water damage on the roof, and repair or replace the flashing as needed to prevent further damage.
If the flashing is damaged or improperly installed, it should be repaired or replaced as soon as possible to prevent water damage to the building. Homeowners may be able to make small repairs themselves, but more extensive repairs or replacements may require the services of a professional roofing company.