According to the Columbus Dispatch, over 90% of roof leaks occur at the flashings.
This often-overlooked component is crucial in safeguarding your home from water intrusion.
Neglecting roof flashing repair can lead to significant structural damage and costly repairs.
Today, we’re taking a closer look into the importance of maintaining your roof flashing, common issues that arise, and practical strategies to ensure it remains secure and functional.
What Is Roof Flashing and Why Does It Matter?
Roof flashing is a thin material installed at joints, edges, and valleys.
Flashing helps to prevent water from seeping into the structure.
It acts as a barrier that directs water away from vulnerable areas.
Roof flashing comes in different materials, each with its own benefits.
Aluminum is lightweight and resists rust, making it a common choice.
Copper is durable and develops a patina over time, which helps with corrosion resistance.
Galvanized steel is strong and affordable, but it requires a protective coating to prevent rust.
The right material depends on the climate, roofing style, and budget.
Flashing must be installed correctly to work as intended.
If it’s not sealed or secured well, water can seep behind it, leading to rot or mold.
Flashing should overlap correctly and be fastened with the right materials to prevent movement.
Poor installation can shorten a roof’s lifespan and increase repair costs.
Common Causes of Damaged Roof Flashing
Roof flashing can withstand the elements, but it doesn’t last forever.
Most flashing failures happen because of three main reasons:
- Weather exposure weakens flashing over time
- Poor installation leads to early failure
- Rust and corrosion reduce durability
Weather Exposure Weakens Flashing Over Time
Roofs take a beating from wind, rain, and temperature changes.
Flashing expands and contracts with the weather, which can cause cracks or loosen seals.
Heavy storms can pull flashing away from the roof, creating gaps where water can collect.
Over time, repeated exposure to moisture and extreme temperatures weakens the material, making it more likely to fail.
Poor Installation Leads to Early Failure
Roof flashing installation requires precision.
If it’s not installed correctly, it can leave gaps where water can seep in.
Improper sealing or using the wrong type of nails can make flashing more vulnerable to shifting.
Misaligned flashing may not channel water correctly, leading to otherwise avoidable leaks.
Rust and Corrosion Reduce Durability
Many types of flashing are made from metal, which can corrode if exposed to moisture for too long.
Galvanized steel has a coating that’s designed to resist rust, but if that coating wears away, corrosion can set in.
Copper and aluminum flashing hold up better, but they can still weaken over time.
Regular roof maintenance can help spot rust before it turns into a bigger problem.
How to Spot Issues with Roof Flashing
Catching problems early can prevent costly damage to the structure of a home.
There are three main ways to identify damaged roof flashing:
- Visible cracks, rust, or separation from roofing materials
- Water leaks inside the home
- Mold growth near flashing areas
Visible Cracks, Rust, or Separation from Roofing Materials
A visual inspection can often reveal damage before leaks start.
Flashing that is cracked, warped, or pulling away from the roof may not be doing its job.
Metal flashing can corrode when exposed to moisture, which weakens its ability to direct water away.
Small gaps or openings may seem minor, but they can allow water to seep under shingles or roofing panels.
Water Leaks Inside the Home
Signs of a flashing failure often appear indoors before they are noticeable on the roof.
Water stains on ceilings or walls can indicate that moisture is entering through a compromised flashing area.
During or after heavy rain, homeowners may notice drips or damp spots in the attic.
Address any sign of water intrusion quickly to prevent further damage.
Mold Growth Near Flashing Areas
Excess moisture around flashing can create the perfect conditions for mold.
It’s common in areas where flashing protects chimneys, skylights, and vents.
Mold growth near these sections of a home can signal that flashing is not sealing as it should.
If there is mold in the attic or along exterior walls, checking the roof flashing for gaps or corrosion is a good next step.
Roof Flashing Repair: Steps to Fix Common Problems
Roof flashing repair is necessary when flashing becomes loose, cracked, or corroded.
The most common repairs involve these key steps:
- Removing damaged sections
- Sealing small cracks
- Reattaching loose flashing
Removing Damaged Sections
If flashing is severely rusted or bent beyond repair, it needs to be removed.
This involves prying up surrounding shingles or roofing material to access the flashing.
Nails or adhesives holding the damaged piece in place must be carefully removed.
The area underneath should be cleaned to remove debris and any moisture before installing new flashing.
Sealing Small Cracks
Minor gaps or cracks can often be repaired without removing the flashing.
A roofing sealant designed for flashing can be applied to small openings.
The sealant must be spread evenly to ensure a watertight bond.
This is a temporary fix that can extend the life of flashing, but it may not hold up long-term in extreme weather conditions.
Reattaching Loose Flashing
Flashing can sometimes shift out of place due to wind or settling of the structure.
If the material is still in good shape, you can still reattach it with roofing nails or screws.
Apply a waterproof sealant around the edges to prevent leaks.
If nails or screws are rusted, replace them with new fasteners.
The Importance of Roof Flashing
Roof flashing repair is an important part of home maintenance.
Addressing problems early ensures a roof stays secure and protects against long-term water damage.
At JLC Roofing, we take pride in serving the Greater Phoenix area with expert roofing services.
From Peoria to Scottsdale and beyond, we’re here to help with everything from routine maintenance to emergency roof repair.
Get in touch today to find out how we can help with your roof repair, including all your roof flashing needs!
Looking for Scottsdale Roofing Contractors?
Trust JLC Roofing for expert roofing services with over 30 years of experience. We specialize in roof repairs, replacements, and emergency services, ensuring your home or business is protected with top-quality craftsmanship.
Contact Us Today at (623) 878-9832 or request a free estimate online!
