Proper Flashing Repair is Vital
Flashing repair becomes extremely necessary if you want to avoid having the wood in your roof start rotting and the roof cement to start cracking. By making sure it is done properly the first time, you won’t need to worry about it again.
What is Roof Flashing?
Roof flashing is a layer of waterproof material used nearly anywhere water runoff is heavy or where two opposing surfaces meet. These areas require the extra protection that flashing provides. Different materials can be used for flashing, although the most durable and common option would be Galvanized sheet metal. Copper or stainless steel can also be used in some areas where flashing is needed as well as fabricated plastic or other composite materials.
How Do I Install it?
The best way to make sure roof flashings is installed correctly is to let a professional do it first time around. Doing it yourself is possible, however you must remember that every little hole or dent can have an effect on how waterproof your roof is eventually. So to do it yourself you need to be incredibly careful and know what you are doing. Putting in a wrong nail can bring you a rotting roof in the future, which is disastrous and expensive. Rather avoid all disaster and costly mistakes by hiring a professional roofing company – you will be happier in the long run!
What Type of Flashing Do I Need?
There are a few different types of roof flashing, each with their own practical application according to both location and angle of the part of roof. For example chimneys need to have different roof flashing to that below dormer windows, surrounding sky lights or vents, thus once again emphasizing the fact that a professional will have knowledge of these different types of roof flashing and flashing repair. It is vital to use the prescribed techniques for the latter because when it rains, water finds its way into every little nook and cranny, making your house very vulnerable to roof rot, wall rot and mold.
Things To Be Aware Of
By creating a smooth and even path for water to run off your house instead of into your house is the main objective of flashing and to achieve this the rest of your roof needs to be securely built. If the construction of your roof is not tight, holes made by nails may loosen and let water in over time. Things like having a proper gutter system can also minimize moisture in and around the junctions of walls and roofing. Another easy way to prevent moisture build up in your roof is to regularly clear away organic debris like tree branches and leaves. Water collects in this debris creating a weakness in that area of the roof. Using methods of flashing repair such as step flashing on the side of chimneys instead of one long piece of sheet metal decreases the opportunity for water and debris to get stuck in it.
Final Thoughts
Lastly, remember to get rid of all previous dampness and moisture corrosion before installing new roof flashing. If any mold is present below the seal, it could indeed spread. This, like most other repair jobs needs to be done properly for any long lasting effects to take place. All the work and money will pay off when you are enjoying a lovely stormy evening inside a dry house.
