When people think about roofs, they usually picture materials like shingles or tiles. However, there’s a lot more to a roof than just the highly visible shingles. Roof flashing is a critical component of any roofing system. Flashing is the sealing, usually made of metal, around every roof penetration (vents, chimneys, etc.). It prevents roof leaks at these vulnerable weak points.

Without proper roof flashing, water can easily leak into your home’s attic or interior, leading to potentially extensive and costly damage. Flashing should last a long time, but it’s not impervious to wear or time. Flashing can be damaged in storms, rust or become compromised over time, allowing leaks to form.

If you’re looking to replace your existing roof, make sure your roofing estimate includes roof flashing.

Flashing isn’t dissimilar to shingles in that there are many varieties to choose from. As with shingles, there’s usually a correlation between price and longevity. There are also different styles of flashing that are usually used for specific purposes, like flashing for chimneys versus flashing for ridge vents or box vents.

What Are the Different Types of Roof Flashing?

Step Flashing

Step flashing is a type of roof flashing commonly used on shingled sloping surfaces. It involves the installation of a series of overlapping metal strips in order to create a watertight seal. Step flashing is typically used in valleys, around chimneys and at roof-wall intersections.

Roll Flashing

Roll flashing is used to seal around roof edges, windows and other areas where water may enter interior spaces or attics. It’s typically made from a durable, corrosion-resistant metal, such as aluminum, copper or stainless steel. Roll flashing is available in a variety of widths and lengths and is typically installed in a single roll.

Drip Edge Flashing

Drip edge flashing is used to provide a weatherproof barrier between the roof and the walls of a building. The purpose of drip edge flashing is to direct water away from the walls and into the gutters. It has a small lip that extends out beyond the edge of your roof line and fascia. Drip edge flashing is usually made from galvanized metal and is available in a wide range of colors.

Valley Flashing

Valley flashing is typically used in areas where the two planes of your roof meet at an angle, such as the valleys of a roof. It’s designed to channel water away from the intersection, preventing it from pooling or soaking into roofing materials and leaking into the home and causing damage. Valley flashing is usually made from either metal or rubber, but it can also be made from other materials.

Skylight Flashing

As the name implies, skylight flashing is used to cover the joints between the skylight, roof deck and shingles. This is done to prevent water intrusion in your attic or around your skylight and into your home. Skylight flashing can come in many different materials, including PVC, aluminum and copper.

How to Know Which Types of Flashing My Roof Needs

The best way to determine which type of flashing your roof needs is to hire a professional roofer to inspect your roof. A professional roofer can explain the benefits and disadvantages of different flashing materials and the factors you should consider when deciding what type of flashing to use.

In most scenarios there are several potential material options that will work for your flashing needs, with the differences often being price and longevity. From a performance perspective, flashing either keeps water out or it doesn’t and needs to be replaced.  

When Should Roof Flashing Be Replaced?

Flashing repairs can be quite expensive, so it’s usually best to replace flashing when it’s cracked, corroded or showing signs of wear. Roof flashing should also be replaced after a major storm or weather event that may have damaged it.

Your roofer may recommend replacing all flashing when getting a new roof. Replacing it ensures that your home is properly protected against the elements and can help extend the life of your new roof.

Protect your Residential or Commercial Roof with the Help of Total Roof Solutions

Prevent roof damage and unwanted leaks by investing in proper roof flashing. At Total Roof Solutions, our expert team of roofers is committed to helping Atlanta residents with residential and commercial roof and roof flashing replacements, repairs and inspections.

Our expert craftsmen also offer a variety of competitively priced exterior home renovation services. For more information or to schedule a service estimate, call 678-752-8668.