When it comes to roof leakage prevention, flashings have the toughest job. They have the task of waterproofing leak-prone areas, protecting the most vulnerable sections from harsh elements.
These pieces of metal serve a similar purpose but come in different forms, which are dictated by their location. As a reputable roofing contractor, Polk Contracting, Inc. wants to advance your working knowledge of different flashings:
Eaves
Otherwise known as drip edges, eave flashings are responsible for keeping the rakes and eaves dry and structurally sound. They’re placed over and beneath the underlayment at the former and the latter, respectively.
Valleys
Commonly used in open-valley roof constructions, the W-shaped flashings in these areas are tucked underneath the shingles from adjacent slopes. Any residential roofing service provider knows that they run from the ridge to the gutters, allowing water and debris to flow freely.
Vents
Considering the shape of vents popping out of your roof, their flashings require a curious design. These cone-shaped units need to fit over the pipes and have a flange at the base. Their top and back edges are installed underneath asphalt shingles while their front area is left uncovered. When properly nailed, they keep the water away from the gap around the vents and drain it efficiently with the help of gravity.
Chimneys
Any insurance restoration contractor would agree that the flashings surrounding the chimney have the most complicated design. They’re composed of small, L-shaped pieces of metal (step flashings) sandwiched by shingle courses. At the cricket, which prevents water pooling behind the chimney, the flashing runs along the covering and is mortared into the chimney itself for waterproofing. Mortared along the sides, counterflashings run down overtop of step flashings, directing the water away from the area where the wall and roof meet.
Roof flashings are prone to misuse. You can prevent it and bring the best out of your roof with Polk Contracting, Inc. Call us at (410) 660-2922 to discuss your roofing needs, and get a FREE estimate. We serve clients in Harford County and surrounding areas.