It’s not easy to fix roof flashing. It can be difficult to replace those thin metal strips, but it’s still fundamental to reinforce the joints in your rooftop and prevent water from entering. If you want to ensure the water runs off into the gutters, it’s crucial that your roof flashing functions effectively.
Since fixing roof flashing isn’t easy, we’ve provided this easy 10-step guide to fix it. Discover bonus facts about roof flashing and the 10 steps required to replace it in this article.
Is it possible to repair the roof flashing yourself?
Yes, it’s possible to repair the roof flashing. Despite corrosion or holes, roof leaks or damaged roof flashing, you should have no problems whpairing roof flashing with the correct methods, materials, and tools.
Which method is ideal for sealing roof flashing?
The ideal method for sealing roof flashing is to use caulk to seal all joints you find between the chimney and the roof flashing. However, before you commence this process, removing the older caulking and mortar already attached to the flashing is essential.
Why should you seal the roof flashing?
The sealing function is fundamental to minimise the water entering the seams. As you or roofing professionals install flashing, ensure you apply the correct sealant for the job.
How can you notice when to replace metal roof flashing?
You will know when to replace metal roof flashing by looking for damage to your walls. If you see that water has entered, mould has accumulated, or signs of damage to the siding or exterior walls, your flashing may be damaged.
At which stage should you replace the roof flashing?
If your flashing is salvageable, you may not need to replace it; it is essential to complete the replacement process when a roofing contractor completes roofing renovations. This process is fundamental to ensure the roof’s integrity isn’t compromised by old flashing.
Which 10 easy steps should you follow to replace roof flashing?
Ready to learn the 10 easy steps to replace metal roof flashings and prevent roof flashing problems? Look at the list below to learn all about this process.
1. Ensure you have the suitable roof flashing materials and complete a roof inspection
Some materials you will need include roofing cement (which may be urethane cement), nails, a hammer and galvanized steel roof flashing. Complete a roof inspection using a ladder roof hook, check the asphalt shingles and roof tiles, and ensure you have the correct step flashing.
2. Take off the damaged or old roof flashing
Complete this step by taking the shingles off with the flat end of a hammer. You can then remove the old flashing by loosening it. Remember that you can reuse old shingles if they’re not damaged, so be careful when removing them.
3. Cut the flashing to the correct size
Cut the flashing to the correct size using a cutting snip or set of shears. Regarding the size, avoid cutting the flashing too small, which will not fit correctly. If its size or shape is too big, you can always modify the size later.
4. Make a 45-degree cut in the flashing
If your flashing isn’t the corner flashing type, you’ll need to make a 45-degree cut in the material. Cut a line to the middle of the flashing from one corner and cut down from the centre, removing a triangle from the flashing.
5. Bend the flashing and attach it
Create a bend in the flashing, ensuring it aligns and fits the corner. Attach it with a nail, ensuring the top side of the flashing is 20 centimetres above the roof.
6. Layer another flashing on top
Prepare another piece of flashing by bending it and judging how it will overlap the first piece. Add sealant and attach this piece of flashing to the first one.
7. Replace your tiles
Depending on your project, you may need to install a row of tiles at this point. This step is important if you install flashing and a new roof. However, if you are replacing the flashing, you must take the tiles off and replace them while you work.
8. Continue adding each flashing
This step involves cutting, bending and overlapping the flashing to create each step of the roof. You must overlap the flashing on the previous step at 7.5-centimetre amounts.
9. Add the tiles after adding the flashing
After each step of metal flashing, add the tiles and alternate between flashing and tiles. Continue this process up until the roof’s top.
10. Affix peak flashing to the roof
To attach peak flashing to the roof and complete the flashing repair, mix and use roofing cement and nails (mix the cement in a mixing tray). You could also secure it by covering the flashing using a rood ridge.
What are the main types of roof flashing?
Four roof flashing types include valley, cap, continuous and vent pipe flashing. Here’s what you can use each of these flashings for.
What is valley flashing?
Valley flashing is a type of roof flashing you can use where two different roof sections join together. It’s ideal for protecting a middle section between the two roof sections to direct any water off the roof.
What is cap flashing?
Cap flashing is l-shaped in form and helps you avoid water collecting in a crack or damaged flashing. You can install it flat on roofs or windows, and it protects the structure of your home.
What is continuous flashing?
Continuous flashing, also known as apron flashing, is one long section of flashing that directs water off shingles and is ideal for waterproofing sloped roofs, and you can use them in the joins between the roof and the wall.
What is vent pipe flashing?
Vent pipe flashing is a particular kind of roof flashing you can use to cover vent pipes. Their primary purpose is to ensure water doesn’t enter the vent or the roof. An extra material you may use is the Smartform roof flashing and repair tape with pipes and vents to flash over the roofs with a watertight surface.
Fix and replace roof flashing effortlessly: Ensure you have the right tools
Fixing or replacing roof flashing isn’t easy, but it all begins with the right tools and equipment. If you need top-quality materials, visit Evobuild. You’ll find everything you need and the correct information about fixing roof flashing, so you can fix and replace roof flashing effortlessly.