Flashing is an essential component of any roofing system. This thin piece of metal is installed around roof features such as chimneys, skylights, and vents and prevents water from leaking into the home. Without proper flashing, water can seep into the roof and cause damage to the structure of the home.
Types of Flashing
There are several different types of flashing for roofs. Each type serves a specific purpose and is essential for keeping water out of the home.
- Drip Edge: Prevents water from seeping under the shingles and into the home.
- Step: used around chimneys and other vertical features to create a watertight seal.
- Valley: Channels water away from the home at the valleys of the roof.
- Saddle: protects against water infiltration at intersecting roof sections.
- Vent pipe: prevents leaks around roof vents.
- Counter: creates a barrier against water entering the home around the base of chimneys.