Flashing issues on your roof can happen for a variety of reasons. For example, material breakdown can happen over time or after a big storm. Plus, problems can arise around roof flashing from poor installation that happened years ago. That’s why we want to go into more details around identifying if your flashing issues are from a poor roof installation or material breakdown.
Identifying How to Fix Flashing Issues
If you notice a leak, it could be from a flashing issue on your roof. So, what is flashing? Often flashing is made from metal, plastic, or rubber, and installed in specific places on your roof’s structure to funnel water away from a surface or seal a gap.
You will likely see roof flashing around piping, vents, chimneys, and areas where one roof meets another section of your roofing. If it is an area that’s susceptible to having a gap or space, flashing can fill in this area. It is a vital part of a roof’s system.
What is the Problem with Roof Flashing?
When flashing has a problem, it can easily lead to a leak on the inside of the home. Damaged flashing can also trap debris, moisture, and harbor pests if the problem persists. These kinds of problems can lead to worse issues like mold and structural damage.
Reviewing flashing on a regular basis is a helpful idea. A professional roofer will review the flashing areas of your roof when they inspect your roof and give you ideas on how to repair the flashing and how to proceed. If the issue is minor, they might even address it the day they inspect it.
What is the Lifespan of Roof Flashing?
Depending on the types of materials, roof flashing can last anywhere from 10 – 20+ years. Likely, your home will have aluminum or steel installed and might need to be replaced over the life of your roof or when you install a new roof.
As time goes on, your roof and its elements will begin to wear. Heat, moisture, wind, hail, and pests can all have an effect on the durability of your flashing. These components can rust, bend, dent, and blow away altogether. If you have a big storm and your flashing was poorly installed or your roofing is older, you could wind up with missing roofing materials. Sadly, it happens.
Can You Replace Flashing Without Replacing Roof?
You can absolutely replace your roof flashing without repairing your entire roof or installing a new one. Your local Austin roofer can come out and inspect your roof and likely repair your issue that day if it is minor. If your flashing has moved or the sealant has pulled away, this can also be replaced.
A small note: if you notice a leak on your ceiling, make sure to let your roofer know. Sometimes a leak isn’t below the spot indicated and could use some investigation to find the issue.
Your Local Austin, TX Roofing Professionals
We strive to bring you the best in roofing for the Austin, Texas area. We deliver decades of roofing experience, training, and knowledge in this area’s needs. We are a prominent roofing company in residential roof repair and roof replacement. We will not ask for a deposit on labor or materials as a dependable way to stand out from the competition while bringing you the best product and service in Austin.
When we inspect, install, or repair your roof, we want to provide you with the best options for your roof design, components, and ventilation. We are Master Elite Contractors bringing you the latest in roofing technology, and a member of our local area Better Business Bureau, so you know we take pride in our work and our community.
Contact us by phone or email to schedule your FREE roofing inspection and quote today.
