Roof flashings are small metal elements with a major role in building protection. They close and seal the possible weak spots around the shingles and between other features to ensure the water will run down in the desired direction. At ArchiPro, we offer a selection of different roof cappings and flashings, including the convenient apron flashing, base flashings, skylight cappings, valley flashings and more.
Proper waterproofing is vital for a building's protection. Without effective rainwater management, roof, walls, and gradually the entire structure will be exposed to quick deterioration.
roof, walls, the roof and walls, and eventually the entire structure, may start to decline.
Roof flashings and cappings are essential final steps in roof installation. They cap off the shingles and are folded to create a waterproof barrier along the edges. This guides rainwater towards the drains, steering it clear from potential leak-prone areas.
These features are made of thin metal - commonly galvanised steel - designed to direct water away from critical roof areas. Every connection of the roof plane and a vertical surface needs to be surrounded with capping, to ensure that water will run down its sides and be directed away from the surfaces. That includes walls and roof features such as chimneys, skylights, and vents.
Corrugated roof flashing is versatile and can be applied wherever water needs to be directed away, such as on roofs, around chimneys, skylights, doors, windows, and within guttering systems.
The choice of available types of flashings and cappings is broad and diverse enough to suit any kind of roofing style.
The traditional material for capping is lead or lead-coated metals. Today, however, the selection is broader and suited to different roof designs. That being said - building codes in some areas might limit the available choice.
A sealant is a necessary element of roof capping. Although nails are commonly used to secure the metal in place, they can be hammered only to one surface, either to the vertical wall or roof plane. Otherwise, if used on both sides, the material would be exposed to intense pressure and probably deformed. Nailed only to the one surface and sealed, the capping can stay secured while the other materials and elements expand and contract during the seasonal changes.
It’s best to perform a thorough annual inspection. Damaged or rusted elements need immediate replacement.
Keeping these elements in their best condition can spare the property owner of other costly roof repairs, preventing future issues before they happen.
Before investing in roof capping and flashing, consider that the functionality and protection of your roof hinge on proper installation. Strategically placed roof capping at vulnerable points, such as where the roof meets walls, chimneys, or within open valleys, is crucial for the roof's longevity and, by extension, the value of your investment.
Existing roof capping may not need replacement during new roof installation if it's undamaged, rust-free, and corrosion-resistant - it can often be reused.
Additionally, adding new flashing can enhance an older roof's defence against the elements. Note that this will involve removing and potentially reinstating the surrounding shingles, assuming they are still in good shape.
With roof flashings, downpipes and rainwater heads also play an essential role in directing rainwater away from the roof and protecting the building's structure from water damage.