Different Types of Roof Flashing Material Available
6/30/2015
Roof flashing is a thin material, usually galvanized steel, used to direct water away from critical areas of the roof (where a roof plane meets a vertical surface). Learn more about all of the different types of roof flashing material available.
Types of roof flashing may be named according to the style of application of flashing, or the region where the flashing is applied.
Flashing applications include:
- Continuous flashing – Continuous flashing is a form of roof flashing used primarily for roof to sidewall intersections. As the term ‘continuous’ implies, the part of flashing on the vertical wall is uninterrupted. The vertical flashing part is simply abutted to the sidewall with necessary fastening and flashing treatment.
- Step flashing – Like continuous flashing, step flashing is used when a roof runs into a vertical structure. This vertical structure may be a sidewall or the chimney wall. Step flashing gets its name from the ‘step’ pattern used to install this type of flashing. In this form of flashing, the flashing materials are worked into the wall, each bearing a L-shape, with each piece of step flashing overlapping the section below it.
- Saddle flashing – Saddle roof flashing gets its name from the shape of the installed flashing. This form of flashing is used in specialized flashing areas like railing attachment, cantilevered joists, beams penetrating exterior walls, and skylights.
Roof area where flashing is applied plays a role in the type of roof flashing selected.
- Chimneys
- Skylights and dormers
- Drip edges
- Valley or ridge
- Vent pipes
Having the right type of roof flashing is important for your home as it will protect your home against one of its biggest dangers: the elements. Knowing your options will ensure you always have the best product to fit your needs and your home.