Roof joints and penetrations are weak points in a standard roofing system. A roof joint refers to an area where roofing panels overlap, while penetrations are components that were attached by drilling a hole in your roof. To prevent water from infiltrating your roof through gaps between roofing panels and penetrations, a professional roofing contractor will install thin strips of metal called flashing over them.
Potential Issues With Flashing
The problem is flashing can be easily dislodged by strong winds, not to mention flashing loosens over time, increasing the risk of moisture damage. That’s why you should routinely schedule a roof inspection to ensure loose flashing is replaced before it allows rainwater to infiltrate your roof.
Different Types of Flashing
You can reduce the risk of leaks by choosing flashing that can handle your area’s climate. Some of the most commonly used types of flashing are:
- Sheet metal – Sheet metal is the most widely used flashing material. It’s made from a combination of steel, zinc and aluminum alloys.
- Aluminum – Aluminum flashing, another popular flashing option, is durable and cost effective. However, it’s not suited to certain homes, particularly those with concrete and fiber cement siding. This is because alkaline components in cement and fiber cement siding can degrade the aluminum. Copper-rich preservatives used in certain kinds of lumber can also degrade aluminum.
- Lead – Lead flashing is used to cover gaps between chimneys and roofing panels.
- Copper and lead-copper – Copper and lead-copper flashing are the most expensive as well as the most durable options on the market. Unlike aluminum, copper and lead-copper aren’t affected by wood preservatives. Because of their aesthetic appeal, copper and lead-copper flashing are often used on historic homes. One potential downside is that copper and lead-copper are more difficult to mold. To learn more about your options, consult a professional roofing contractor.
Are you looking for experienced contractors near you?
Hoover Contracting Inc, a family-owned business with over a decade of experience, offers a wide range of professional roofing services, including roof repair and replacement services. To schedule a consultation, call us at (217) 213-5122 or fill out this form. Talk to us today!