Home › Learn From The Pros › How Does Flashing Protect Your Roof From Damage? How Does Flashing Protect Your Roof From Damage? September 23, 2020 Residential roofing systems are much more than just its shingles or sheet metal components. There are other, smaller parts that are just as crucial. One of these is flashing. How Does Flashing Work? Sloped roofing systems have breaks in it – valleys, dormers and chimneys, among others – all of which are vulnerable to water infiltration when it rains. Flashing is the material that protects these vulnerable areas. Most types of flashing are made of galvanized steel, though options like copper and aluminum are also available. Certain types of flashing can also be made from rubber or plastic. Flashing works as a barrier that, if properly installed, won’t get eroded or worn out like caulk. However, flashing generally does not last as long as the roof itself. It is normal to have the flashing replaced at least once between roof replacement appointments. Types of Flashing The following are some of the types of flashing that you will find on a typical sloped roof: Valley flashing – Most people are familiar with valley flashing. It features a profile shaped like an inverted letter “T” and is inserted in roofing valleys where two planes meet. Its vertical component serves as a barrier that prevents cross-infiltration, which happens when rainwater from one roofing plane flows under another. Continuous and step flashing – Continuous and step flashing are both used on dormers, chimney stacks and similar large protrusions. Continuous flashing is installed parallel to the roof edge while step flashing is installed perpendicular to it, with each “step” following the shingles. Drip edge – Drip edge has a profile shaped like an inverted letter “L” and is installed along the roof edge. It helps counter capillarity and reduce rainwater seeping into the roof deck. Vent pipe flashing – Also known as “rubber boots,” vent pipe flashing is used to cover the base of vent pipes. The tip of the cone is trimmed to match the pipe diameter during installation. The base is angled to match the roof’s slope. [company_name] is your leading provider of roof repair and installation services. Give us a call at [company_number]. You can also fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment. We serve customers in Brainerd, MN, and surrounding communities.