How Do I Install Roofing Flashing

Roof flashing is a critical component in safeguarding your home from water intrusion. It acts as a protective sealant at various junctions on your roof, such as valleys, chimneys, skylights, and vents, directing water away from vulnerable areas. Proper installation of roof flashing ensures the longevity of your roofing system and prevents costly repairs down the line.

For residents in Jefferson, Ohio, and the surrounding regions, S&K Construction And Remodeling LLC stands out as a trusted provider of comprehensive roofing services. With a commitment to quality craftsmanship and customer satisfaction, they offer expertise in both residential and commercial roofing projects. Their team of professionals ensures that every aspect of your roof, including flashing installation, is executed with precision and care.

Understanding Roof Flashing

Roof flashing is typically made from thin pieces of impervious material, such as galvanized steel, aluminum, or copper. Its primary function is to prevent water from penetrating the roof at joints or intersections. Common areas where flashing is installed include:

• Valleys: Where two roof planes meet.
• Chimneys: Around the base where the chimney intersects the roof.
• Skylights: Along the perimeter of the skylight.
• Vents and Pipes: Wherever there are protrusions through the roof.
• Dormers: At the junctions where dormer walls meet the roof.

Types of Roof Flashing

1. Step Flashing: Used where the roof meets a vertical surface, such as walls or chimneys. It consists of L-shaped pieces that overlap each course of shingles, directing water away from the wall-roof junction.
2. Continuous Flashing (Apron Flashing): A long, single piece of flashing that protects the joint between a vertical wall and a sloped roof.
3. Drip Edge: Installed along the roof’s edges, it guides water away from the fascia and into the gutters.
4. Valley Flashing: Placed in roof valleys where two slopes meet, it channels water down the valley and into the gutter system.
5. Vent Pipe Flashing: Specialized flashing designed to fit around circular roof penetrations like vents and pipes.

Step-by-Step Guide to Installing Roof Flashing

Please note: While this guide provides an overview of the installation process, it’s essential to consult with or hire professional roofing contractors, such as S&K Construction And Remodeling LLC, to ensure proper installation and adherence to local building codes.

1. Preparation

• Safety First: Ensure you have the appropriate safety gear, including non-slip footwear, gloves, and a safety harness if working on steep roofs.
• Inspect the Roof: Before installation, check for any damaged or rotten sections that need repair. A solid roof deck is crucial for effective flashing installation.

2. Installing Drip Edge Flashing

• At the Eaves:
  • Begin by installing the drip edge along the eaves before laying the underlayment. This placement ensures that water flows into the gutters without seeping under the roof components.
  • Align the drip edge so that it overhangs the roof decking and fascia.
  • Secure it with roofing nails spaced approximately 12 inches apart.
• At the Rakes:
  • After the underlayment is in place, install the drip edge along the rake edges.
  • This sequence ensures that water doesn’t get underneath the underlayment at the roof’s edges.

3. Installing Step Flashing

• At Sidewalls:
  • Lay a shingle course up to the base of the vertical wall.
  • Place the first piece of step flashing over the end of the shingle, ensuring it extends up the wall and over the shingle.
  • Secure the flashing with a nail in the upper corner that will be covered by the next course of shingles.
  • Continue this process, alternating shingles and flashing pieces, ensuring each flashing overlaps the one below it.
• Around Chimneys:
  • Install base flashing at the chimney’s front.
  • Use step flashing along the sides, integrating it with each shingle course.
  • At the back, install counter-flashing to cover the step flashing and prevent water ingress.

4. Installing Valley Flashing

• Open Valleys:
  • Lay a wide strip of metal flashing centered in the valley.
  • Ensure the edges of the flashing are tucked under the underlayment on both sides.
  • Secure the flashing with roofing nails, ensuring they are placed at the edges to prevent water from reaching the nail holes.
• Woven Valleys:
  • This method involves weaving shingles from both roof planes, eliminating the need for metal flashing. However, metal valley flashing is often preferred for its durability and effectiveness.

5. Installing Vent Pipe Flashing

• Slide the vent pipe flashing (boot) over the pipe, ensuring it sits flat against the roof surface.
• The bottom part of the flashing should overlap the shingles, while the upper part should be covered by the next course of shingles.
• Apply roofing sealant around the base of the pipe and the flashing’s edges to ensure a watertight seal.

6. Final Steps

• Inspect the Installation: Ensure all flashing components are securely fastened and properly integrated with the roofing materials.
• Sealant Application: Apply roofing sealant to any exposed nail heads or seams to prevent water penetration.
• Clean Up: Remove any debris from the roof to ensure unobstructed water flow.