The thin, weather-resistant material used to prevent leaks on a roof is called roof flashing. This metal flashing is usually made of materials such as copper or aluminum, and its purpose is to provide solid, additional protection between openings where there’s a possibility of leakage. Although roof flashing is not visible from the ground, it is an indispensable part of every roof construction. Namely, improper installation of this significant part of your roof can lead to premature deterioration or even roof failure. So, if you’re replacing your roof, make sure your flashing is installed correctly.
Different Roof Flashing Types
As roofing materials have advanced, so has the demand for various types of roof flashing, in order to address various roofing challenges. For instance, some of the most used roof flashing types include the following:
- Base flashing,
- Counter flashing,
- Step flashing,
- Valley flashing,
- Skylight flashing,
- Kickout flashing,
- Chimney flashing,
- Drip edges.
Every roof flashing serves a different purpose, so if you think you’re not experienced enough, get familiar with these roof flashings first.
How to Install Roof Flashing?
As you’ve read by now, there are different types of roof flashing you can choose from, depending on your needs. Because of this, each of these flashings requires a different approach in the installation process, but the materials you’ll use will remain the same.
Materials You’ll Need
- Roof flashing,
- Sealant,
- Pry bar,
- Nails or screws,
- Roofing nailer or hammer,
- Safety equipment,
- Ladder or scaffolding.
Installation Steps
Step 1: Install Underlayment
A common practice in roofing is installing underlayment beneath the shingles first. However, if you have already installed the shingles, you will need to remove them, as it’s not possible to install underlayment and roof flashing over existing shingles.
Step 2: Install Corner and Kickout Flashing
Corner flashing is an employed technique for walls or dormers that extend out from the roof’s top. Thus, in the event that you’re installing corner flashing, be sure to install it before kickout or step flashing.
After you finish this step, you’ll have to install kickout flashing and work your way up. The method to this includes placing kickout flashing at the base of your roof and securing it with flashing sealant.
Step 3: Place Shingles
The next step is to place your shingles. Start by positioning the shingle in a way that covers both the starting strip and the kickout flashing and secure it by using proper roofing sealant. Place the nails higher on the shingles so that they’re covered by the next flashing piece for a seamless appearance. Proceed to install shingles on top of the kickout flashing and the first installed step flashing. Repeat this process of installing kickout flashing and adding shingles.
Step 4: Install Roof Flashing at the Peak
One thing you should always have in mind is to make sure that both the flashing and the shingles are cut and fitted specifically for the roof’s peak. That way, your flashing and shingles will bend over the roof’s peak, creating a curved application.
Step 5: Install the Last Layer of Shingles
Your flashing should, in the end, be covered halfway by your shingles, and the other half should be covered by your siding. If you are replacing flashing with existing siding, carefully peel away the bottom layer and make sure it lies over your flashing.
Roof Flashing Installation Made Easy With Pro Restoration LLC
Many homeowners might be enticed to tackle roof flashing installation on their own. However, even the basics of flashing setup can pose quite a challenge. When you start thinking about tackling trickier situations such as installing flashing around chimneys, vents, plumbing boots, skylights, or other intricate roofing components, things can get more complex more quickly or things can suddenly get more complex. That’s why it’s highly recommended to entrust this task to a skilled professional.
If you need roof flashing services, contact a professional roofing contractor in Byron, IL!
