Common Roof Flashing Problems
To prevent expensive repairs, homeowners should learn what can cause the flashing to fail.
Flashing helps redirect water around breaches in the roofing material caused from skylights, vents, and chimneys, preventing the water from penetrating the home’s structure. Homeowners can experience numerous issues if the flashing fails, including roof leaks, structural damage, mold, mildew growth, and rot. To prevent expensive repairs, homeowners should learn what can cause the flashing to fail.
Here are the most common roof flashing problems to look out for and try to avoid.
Poor installation
DIY-savvy homeowners might be tempted to install the roof flashing on their own. However, the flashing represents one of the most damage-prone parts of the roof. For this reason, installing the roof flashing requires professional skills, experience, and proper tools.
When installed incorrectly, the flashing will likely pull away from the roof. If it’s no longer able to do its job, leaks will develop in no time. The same is true for poor repair jobs.
Settling foundation
All home foundations will start to settle with age. When this happens, the flashing around the structures connected to the foundation might become loose. These structures most commonly include the chimney and the fireplace. As a matter of course, homeowners should inspect them regularly and hire a professional repair service if they notice the flashing separating.
That said, when the house starts to settle, the flashing is rarely the first part to be impacted. The cracks from this process usually appear around door frames and near the roof first. These cracks can alert homeowners to the issue before it reaches the flashing.
Adverse weather conditions
Harsh weather can take a toll on flashing. High winds, heavy rains, and snow buildup can cause the flashing to fail. Even if it withstands these weather events, the flashing can shrink or change shape from the cold, eventually causing it to fail. High temperatures can also contribute to this outcome, as they cause the metal flashing to expand.
Age
Although the roof flashing is durable, it isn’t designed to last forever. As time goes by, the flashing will experience dramatic temperature fluctuations that will cause it to warp. In addition, the flashing can rust with age.
If these problems occur, owners should replace the flashing before water penetrates the roof. Home and business owners who installed the flashing on their property should know what to expect regarding its lifespan. Otherwise, they should check the available building plans and roofing warranties to learn when the flashing might need replacement.
Hire a professional
Hiring a professional to install the flashing and maintain the roof can significantly reduce the chances of premature failure. If harsh weather conditions, foundation settling, or age affect the flashing, homeowners should contact a reliable roofing service. These professionals will repair or replace the flashing properly, safely, and efficiently.
Nimble Restoration Services offers ten years of experience in restoration construction and roofing repair and replacement for residential and commercial structures in McKinney, Tx. Our client information service ensures our customers understand their needs and the best materials for their circumstances. We offer roof inspections and tune-ups. We believe our integrity and service are unmatched. RCAT licensed and insured. Woman-owned. Emergency services are available. Call us now at (214) 833-7517.
