Managing the flow of water is important for protecting your home. Roof flashing can play a crucial role in your efforts to control water, and Ace Hardware makes it easy to buy the right type for your project.
What Is Roof Flashing?
Roof flashing is a thin layer of metal that gets applied to a roof. While roofing paper goes all over roofs to seal out water, roof flashing gets strategically deployed to help move water in a certain direction. For example, you might install roof flashing to direct water away from a roof vent and into a gutter so that it can drain away from your home.
Flashing Rolls and Other Types of Roof Flashings
There are several types of roof flashings that you can use to protect your home from leaks. Flashing rolls are the most popular forms of roof flashings because they can speed up installation. Installers often use flashing rolls for continuous flashing that runs along the edge of a large area and acts like an apron for the roof. But you can also find flashing cut into rectangles, cylinders, squares and other shapes.
Base roof flashing is a second layer of protection that can go around chimneys and other places that benefit from extra protection. In areas where roofs meet walls, step flashing installed in layers is a good option. There is also specialty flashing available to place around skylights and open valleys in roofs.
What is Flashing Tape Used For?
Although more commonly used around windows and doorways, flashing tape is typically used to create a barrier that eliminates drafts and keeps out moisture. It can be used for roofing applications, too, as it is waterproof, can seal around fasteners, and can help prevent mold.
Types of Roof Flashing Materials
In addition to choosing the right type of roof flashing for your job, consider which material is best for your needs. Some options include:
- Aluminum: Economical and lightweight, aluminum roof flashing can work well in certain environments. Uncoated aluminum roof flashing requires a protective finish if used with concrete or masonry, and it may corrode in coastal areas with salty air.
- Steel: Steel roof flashing is popular because it is malleable and can be installed for a variety of flashing types. Galvanized steel flashing rolls and panels are also resistant to rust, making them good for installation in a range of environments.
- Copper: Copper flashing is highly durable, malleable and solders well to ensure a tight seal. It is easy to install and can offer many years’ worth of protection.
- Plastic and vinyl: Lightweight and easy to work with, plastic and vinyl flashing is commonly used to produce gutter guards and other parts of gutter systems. It is typically less durable than metal roof flashing, but it can be an economical option. As a result, you may wish to use it if you need a temporary fix to stop leaks while you prepare to redo your entire roof.
Shop Roof Flashing Rolls and More at Ace
There’s a lot to consider when choosing roof flashing, but that doesn’t mean that finding the right type for your project should be difficult. If you already know which roof flashing is best for your project, shop online to find quality products from brands like Amerimax and York. Or head to your neighborhood Ace store to get help selecting the right flashings for your project.
