blog-banner

Are you looking for a contractor?

Submit our quick form and get quotes now!

Everything You Need to Know About Roof Flashing

By Cynthia Pigeon

Updated on May 28, 2024

It is no secret that a leaky roof can have severe budgetary repercussions: moisture problems, heat loss, and property damage.

To avoid such problems, avoid neglecting the installation of flashing on your roof.

Roof Flashing: Definition & Purpose 

Aluminum roof flashing

Source: Canva

Roof flashing—whether plastic, aluminum or steel—is a form of moulding that can be found in many different roof areas: in valleys, around plumbing vents, at the base of chimneys or roof vents.

Its purpose is to ensure that the roof is watertight in regard to the above-mentioned sections. Specifically, it allows the water to drain to the gutters and not stagnate on the surface of the roof, thus avoiding any water infiltration.

Furthermore, the seal provided by the flashing also prevents heat loss and therefore, any further expenses added to your heating bill. 

While mortar flashings can be made by a seasoned professional, the materials above-mentioned are more durable and the fact that they are premade significantly speeds up their installation.

Installing Roof Flashing

Looking to install your own roof flashings? While it is possible to do so, note that it is a task that presents its share of challenges, including working at heights and having good manual skills in order to adequately perform the installation. So, feel free to call in a professional contractor!

Maintenance Needed

Silicone flashing repair

Source: Canva

Surely you want your flashings to last through the years while still looking good? Make minor repairs as soon as they are needed.

Have you noticed any small holes in your flashing? Do not wait to seal it with a gutter putty, do it right away! Make sure to clean the surface beforehand with a small wire brush.

Need more information regarding new roofing materials? Check out our article Which Roofing Material Will Best Suit Your Needs?

Counter-Flashing

To ensure roof flashing has maximum adhesion to the roofing material, it is equipped with a counter-flashing. There are two types of flashing: external and internal flashing.

External flashing: External flashing or exposed flashing is used to prevent moisture from seeping into the existing structural walls where the roof intersects the wall.

Internal flashing: Internal flashing or concealed flashing collects water that has penetrated any given wall of the building and then drains it out of the wall through drain holes.

Looking to get a cost estimate for your roofing project? Try out our cost calculator!

Get 3 renovation quotes for your roofing project

RenoQuotes.com will put you in contact with 3 reliable contractors for your roofing renovation project. Fill in the form on our homepage (it only takes a few minutes), and you will receive quotes from trusted professionals.

Dial 1-844 828-1588 to speak with one of our customer service representatives.


Get 3 free quotes for your project!

Submit a project and get 3 free quotes!

Looking for something else?

Table of contents

2 min read

Get 3 free quotes for your project!

Submit a project and get 3 free quotes!

Are you a contractor?

Join our network and receive real leads!

Download the price guide for renovations

We’ll be emailing you the latest market price guide for renovations.



Related articles

The latest industry news, interviews, technologies, and resources.

8 min read

Editorial Team • 07 Nov 2023

How to Adapt a Kitchen for Reduced Mobility?

Facilitating independence and make everyday life at home easier for individuals with reduced mobility or suffering from various other disabilities are desirable lifestyles nowadays. Knowing that people are less and less marginalized and can, with ease, share their real needs with others lends a helping hand to the cause). 

Interior renovations
4 min read

Editorial Team • 09 May 2024

How Much Does it Cost to Install a Window?

Windows are the link between the inside and outside, the home’s access to fresh air and natural light. Not only do our windows allow air to enter and circulate around the home, but they also keep rooms insulated, cosy and warm. Windows are a very important feature of the house, so every now and again they’ll need to be updated to suit modern needs. But, how much does a window installation cost exactly?

4 min read

Editorial Team • 07 Nov 2023

Installing Open-Concept Kitchen Shelves: Expectation vs Reality

Do you suddenly want to give your kitchen a revamp? Right now, you may find ideas coming from all sides; are you thinking about a change of furniture, countertop or paint colours?

5 min read

Editorial Team • 07 Nov 2023

How to highlight the architectural details of your home: the exterior

Your personality can truly shine by way of your home’s architectural details. As you've likely noticed, there are plenty of different style choices and preferences out there.

Renovation tips
7 min read

Editorial Team • 09 Sep 2024

How Much Does a Septic Tank Cost?

Thinking of having a septic tank installed or your current one changed? As you can imagine, doing so comes at a hefty cost, one with several additional expenses to consider.

Price guide

Looking for a contractor?

Submit a project and get 3 free quotes now!