Your roof is developed to withstand the harshest of elements the Arizona climate can throw at it. Areas where two opposing surfaces meet or runoff is heavy are more prone to leaks and damage, so they need additional protection.
Flashing is used to provide your home with the necessary safeguard.
Made from various materials, there are also different types of flashing that are used for various functions. We’re going to review the purpose, importance, and most common types of flashing.
What is Flashing?
Flashing is a thin, flat, and waterproof material. Typically made from metals such as aluminum, copper, stainless, or galvanized steel. With the help of underlayment, flashing keeps water from getting underneath your shingles.
Why is Flashing Important?
As we mentioned, flashing keeps water from getting underneath your shingles and causing a leak inside your home. Certain areas of your roof are more susceptible to leaks and needs reinforced. Mainly areas where your roof meets a wall, valleys, vents, skylights, and the roof’s edges.
4 Common Types of Flashing
- Base Flashing – Used at the joint between the roofing surface and a vertical surface, such as a wall or chimney, protecting the surface from water penetration. Base flashing is also part of a two piece system to not only protect the surface, but also move water away from the area.
- Counter Flashing – The second piece to combating water penetration, counter flashing is designed to shed water off the vertical surface and down the roof. This is essential to protect your home from leaks.
- Step Flashing – A piece of flashing that has been bent 90 degrees in the center, step flashing is used to protect the interface between a roof and a wall. Multiple pieces are installed in layers with shingles to force water flow away from the wall, preventing water penetration.
- Continuous Flashing – Often referred to as “apron flashing”, continuous flashing is a long piece of metal that carries water down to the shingles below. These long pieces have built-in expansion joints because they are so long and need to be able to flex.
Ask The Pros
Flashing is one of the most essential parts to your roof and understanding it is important. To provide your home with necessary shield against the elements, flashing needs to be professionally installed in very specific areas of your roof.
If you are concerned about your roof flashing or are considering a new roof, contact Craven Construction. We are available to inspect your roof and provide you with a FREE estimate. Contact our office today at 602-399-4914!
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About Craven Construction
Craven Construction is dedicated to providing our customers with honest and reliable roofing services. With over two decades of residential and commercial experience, we are here to serve you and all of your roofing needs.
Our team of experienced roofers is licensed and knowledgeable in working with all types of roofing. We offer high quality roofing services and are capable of getting your project completed in a timely, efficient manner.