11 Types Of Roof Flashing That Help Protect Your Home
Have you ever wondered what keeps your roof from leaking even during the toughest storms? Or what safeguards your home's structure from water sneaking in through every nook and cranny?
In this post, we'll explore the various types of roof flashing and roof flashing materials and how each one works to keep your home dry.
By the end, you'll understand exactly why these small but mighty barriers are important to get right during your roof replacement project.
Quick Answer To Roof Flashing Types
- Base Flashing
- Chimney Flashing
- Counter Flashing
- Drip Edge Flashing
- Gutter Apron Flashing
- Step Flashing
- Pipe Flashing
- Valley Flashing
- Wall Flashing
- Drip Cap Flashing
- Kickout Flashing
Types Of Roof Flashing And Their Applications
1. Base Flashing
Base flashing sits at intersections between vertical walls and roofing materials, typically found at chimneys and dormers. It redirects water downwards, away from vertical surfaces, into the underlayment or the next layer of roof shingles.
It's best used where a vertical wall intersects with the roof deck, like chimneys and dormer bases.
Common roof flashing materials include aluminum flashing, galvanized steel, or copper for durability and flexibility.
When installing, ensure it partially overlaps both the siding and roofing material for optimal water resistance.
2. Chimney Flashing
Chimney flashing creates a waterproof seal around chimneys. It does this with a combination of base and counter flashing to prevent leaks between the chimney and the roof deck.
This type is ideal for the base of chimneys, where leaks are common.
Materials often include copper or galvanized steel for strong, long-term protection.
Due to its complexity, chimney flashing requires precise installation with counter flashing embedded into chimney mortar for a complete seal.
3. Counter Flashing
Counter flashing works with base flashing, particularly around brick walls or chimneys where the base flashing can't sit behind the siding.
Its function is to direct water downward onto the base flashing below, ensuring a watertight seal.
This type of flashing is commonly made from aluminum or galvanized steel.
For best results, install counter flashing by embedding it into masonry joints or securing it to the vertical surface.
4. Drip Edge Flashing
Drip edge flashing is a metal strip placed along the roof's edge, especially in areas without gutters. It directs water away from the fascia board and helps prevent moisture damage.
It's often used on the sloped edges of the roof without gutters.
Drip edge materials include galvanized steel and aluminum, with types like Type C (L-shaped), Type D (T-shaped), and Type F (gutter apron).
Install drip edge flashing by securing the drip edge under the underlayment and extending it over the roof's edge.
5. Gutter Apron Flashing
Gutter apron flashing functions like drip edge flashing but is specifically designed to direct water into the gutter, protecting the fascia from water exposure.
This flashing is best for roof edges leading to gutters, preventing rot and maintaining structural integrity.
It's typically made from galvanized steel or aluminum for long-lasting performance.
To install, place it at the roof's edge under the last row of shingles and secure it over the fascia and into the back lip of the gutter.
6. Step Flashing
Step flashing consists of overlapping flashing pieces placed in "steps" along the angled bases of walls that meet the roof, such as dormer sides. It prevents water from seeping into the joint between vertical surfaces and the roof plane.
Step flashing is ideal for areas where sloped roofs meet walls or chimneys.
It's commonly made of thin metal flashing, like aluminum or galvanized steel, for easy shaping.
When installing it, each piece should overlap the one below, creating a stair-step effect to channel water away.
7. Pipe Flashing
Pipe flashing, or vent pipe flashing, seals around roof penetrations for pipes or vents. It provides a watertight seal around plumbing and exhaust pipes.
This flashing is best used for sealing plumbing vents and other pipes that pass through the roof.
Material options include rubber or metal, with copper or galvanized steel often used for durability.
Install it with the base under the roofing material and the upper portion tightly sealed around the pipe.
8. Valley Flashing
Valley flashing is positioned in the valleys where two roof slopes meet, directing water flow along these high-risk areas. It's crucial for roof valleys to prevent leaks and is typically made from aluminum or copper for strength and flexibility.
It's best used in roof valleys where two slopes intersect, requiring solid protection against heavy water flow.
Valley flashing should be cemented along both edges to prevent water seepage beneath.
9. Wall Flashing
Wall flashing, also known as headwall flashing, extends over the top edges of walls that meet flat roofs or roof decks, creating a waterproof barrier. Ideal for flat roofs or commercial roofing applications, wall flashing prevents water from seeping into vertical walls or facades.
Materials often include galvanized steel or copper for robust, long-term protection.
Install wall flashing by securing it tightly along the wall's top edge and extending it over the roof's edge or siding.
Specialized Flashing Variants
10. Drip Cap Flashing
Drip cap flashing is an L-shaped flashing that protects windows and doors by directing water away from these openings, preventing leaks around frames.
It's best used above windows and doors, particularly in areas with heavy rainfall.
It's typically made from aluminum or galvanized steel for longevity.
For this type of flashing installation, place it over the frame to extend outward, ensuring that water flows away from the opening.
11. Kickout Flashing
Kickout flashing, also known as diverter flashing, directs water from the roof-wall intersection into the gutter, protecting siding from water intrusion. Kickout flashing is essential for areas where the roof meets siding or exterior walls.
Common materials include aluminum or copper for long-lasting protection.
Install it at roof-wall intersections with a slight angle to ensure that water is channeled away from the siding and directly into the gutter.
Flash Forward: Let Clifton Exteriors Protect Your Roof
When it comes to safeguarding your home with durable, expertly installed roof flashing, Clifton Exteriors has you covered. Our roofing contractor team handles every aspect of roof replacement, ensuring that each type of flashing is perfectly suited to protect your home from the elements.
Ready to protect your home from costly leaks and weather damage? Fill out our contact form today, or give us a call to get started!
