Experts estimate that approximately 70% of homes in the U.S. have some kind of mold growing behind their walls. This phenomenon is usually caused by water leaking into the home and creating wet areas that promote mold formation. Mold can have a terrible impact on one’s health, including asthma attacks for vulnerable members of the household. Health risks aside, it can also cause costly damage to ceilings and walls, which may lead to further expenses down the line. That is why it is so important to make sure your contractor does every bit of due diligence to ensure your home is sealed against moisture. In regions like here in the South Atlantic, which is particularly known for heavy rain, it’s particularly important to set your home up for success.
Good thing, one specific component is designed to guard the most susceptible areas of your roof from water: the roof flashing. Let our re-roofing experts discuss what roof flashing is and what purposes it serves to help you better understand how it improves your life and your home.
What Exactly Is Roof Flashing?
Roof flashing consists of metal strips that are specifically made to fit your roof. You can find it in areas that require extra protection against water intrusions, such as chimneys, skylights, vents, and other roof penetrations. With flashing in place, the roof and walls can expand and contract with temperature shifts without cracking, keeping a sturdy surface that prevents moisture from seeping in.
Residential roof flashing is usually made of aluminum, but it can also come in steel, lead, rubber, and liquid forms. Keep in mind that flashing isn’t always exposed or noticeable to the naked eye. As such, it can be tricky to determine flashing damage at times. This is why routine inspections by a professional roofing company are a must. By checking your roof regularly, you can spot areas that are starting to deteriorate or showing early signs of damage, and act on them accordingly.
Why Is Roof Flashing Important?
Joints and penetrations are the most vulnerable areas of any roof. Joints are where two slopes intersect and penetrations are the features that produce holes in your roof. As mentioned earlier, vents, chimneys and skylights are some of the most common types of penetrations.
Simply put, the areas that consist of joints and penetrations create opportunities for water to penetrate your roof and enter your interior. Roof flashing redirects water away from these areas, leading them directly into the gutters. With this, water cannot pass through holes and gaps potentially created by joints and penetrations on your roof. If the flashing is damaged or missing, leaks will eventually develop and cause extensive damage over time.
As you can see, flashing plays an important role in protecting your home against water damage. This is a great investment, especially for homeowners who experience moist climates.
Choose International Construction Services, Inc. for your residential and commercial roofing needs. Whether you have queries about roof flashing or any other roofing component, we’re more than happy to assist. Call us at (803) 699-5106 or fill out our contact form to get a free estimate.