With so much information available online, people have access to a wealth of videos and can learn everything there is to know about DIY. Tackling a project such as fixing a leaky roof may seem easy when you see other people doing it, but it can make it so much worse if done wrong. Exercising caution when completing any roof flashing repairs is essential to the process.
It would be prudent to make sure that whatever you’re doing is best for the flashing so that you won’t be wasting time or money.
Roof Flashings
There are several different flashing types, each one designed to protect specific features of the roof.
- Continuous: It’s a single piece of a half-cut metal tube that is quite long, which carries water down to the shingles below. If the pieces are too long, they will have trouble flexing as the house expands and contracts between seasons.
For this reason, the long pieces need to have built-in expansion joints so they can move as the structure moves.
- Base: Certain smaller features, such as chimneys, need to have two pieces of flashing attached. It helps to direct the rain downwards when it meets the surface of the shaft.
There is an added benefit to two-part flashing: the pieces can move, keeping the whole system secure when expanding and contracting due to weather.
- Counter: These pieces are placed opposite to the base flashing and complete the two-part set.
- Step: This is a rectangular piece of covering bent at 90 degrees in the centre and used for roofs and walls. Multiple pieces will be installed in layers with the shingles to ensure that the water flows away from the structure.
- Skylight: More often than not, skylight manufacturers include flashing in their products, but sometimes roofing contractors have to create or buy it separately.
- Valley: If there are open valleys on the roof, there needs to be a metal flashing to protect this critical area.
- Drip edges: The roof’s edge has thin pieces that help water drip off without damaging the house or causing any leaks.
- Kickout: Sometimes, when doing maintenance on the roof, there is a gap between where the step flashing ends and the gutter begins. Kickout flashing bridges that gap and direct the water away from the walls and into the gutters.
It would help if you carried out roof flashing repairs regularly to ensure that your roof is leak proof. However, there are many other problems that you may experience with your roof, and it’s a good idea to read up on some other common issues that can crop up.
How To Determine if the Flashing Needs Repair
The first obvious sign that your roof needs to be fixed is that it will start leaking. Usually, when there are leaks, it’s an indication that it’s the flashing that needs to be repaired. Nothing lasts forever when it comes to construction, and over time, tiles and shingles can deteriorate, rust, and even loosen.
If you’re a DIY enthusiast, you might explore the internet for ways to repair roof flashing. Keep in mind that if not done correctly, a project like this will cost you more money in the long run.
Reasons To Repair Roof Damage
There are reasons to start on a repair for roof flashing, which doesn’t include waiting around for your ceiling to drip. If any of the below speak to your current situation, then maybe it’s time to take a look at a repair project:
- You see light shining through the attic ceiling
- There are missing or cracked shingles on the roof
- You find loose shingles in the gutters
- There are water stains on your walls
- Your home is full of mould and mildew growth
- The chimney flashing is damaged
- The exterior paint in your house is peeling
- You have high energy bills
- You know that your roof is old
For your roof flashing problems, contact Dominion Roofing.
Locating Leaks
If you notice any leaks around your chimney or in the corners of your roofing, it’s most likely because your flashing wasn’t installed correctly. These types of problems require professional intervention if you want to have them fixed properly.
However, if you’re patient and willing to learn some new skills, you can make it a DIY project and fix the issue yourself. It could save you some money in the meantime. Inspect your home and venture into the attic to see if you can spot the exact location where the leak is occurring.
Fixing Roof Flashing Leaks
Flashing can be relatively simple to repair if you know what you’re doing. If you’ve never done maintenance before, then search online for instructions on how to repair roof flashing. You’ll find plenty of information and videos that can help you along.
The problem arises when you find that the installation was originally done incorrectly. It’s important to consult with an expert to have your roof sealed properly. We offer a consultation service, so don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions about your project.
PRO TIP:
“Don’t always rely on DIY methods when it comes to roofing issues.”
Roof Flashing Repairs FAQs:
Does insurance cover roof repairs?
Your home insurance policy will cover any damage caused by hail or wind, but not if it’s usual wear and tear over the years.
How do I install step flashing where there is no wall corner?
To make things easier, purchase a premade kickout flashing piece.
- Line up the unit on the base of the roof to fit snugly against the wall.
- Place the first section over the end of the starter strip. Make sure that it leads out into the kickout flashing. Use roofing adhesive and nails to secure it to the roof deck.
- Once the kickout flashing and the first piece of step are secured, you’ll need to apply a shingle. Apply sealant to the base of the flashing and lay a shingle on top, and nail it into place.
- Complete the entire shingle course.
Where do you look for roof leaks?
Go into the attic during the day with a bright flashlight. Start above the place where you noticed the drip and work your way up the roof. Look for any wetness or damp spots on the framing poles.
You can also search for watermarks, stains, or discolorations on the wood. Then switch off the light and check for holes where the daylight shows through the ceiling.