What is Roof Eave Flashing?

An eave flashing of the roof is an essential roofing element that protects a house against water leakages and other consequential destructions. The overlooked part is that this water has to be diverted since it is found in the sides of the roof and ultimately, it prevents the very expensive infiltration of water. The following article covers three of the most popular types of eave flashing and provides recommendations on how one can choose the most relevant to decrease water penetration and damage to properties.

1. Drip Edge Flashing: Installed on the roof's eaves, drip edge flashing helps stop water from leaking beneath the shingles. By directing water from the roof to the gutters, drip edge flashing protects the buildings beneath the roof.

2. Step Flashing: Installed at the edge of the roof, step flashing protects any joints between the roof and a vertical surface (i.e. wall or chimney). The spaces of the shingles are arranged to overlap each other which prevents a water drop at any point of a shingle to have impingements on the lower shingle and therefore allows molds and rot to grow along the adjacent shingles.

3. Valley Flashing: At the intersection of two areas of roof that are utilized in what is considered a low spot, valley flashing includes a waterproof seal making the accumulation of water at these joints to be avoided.

4. Base Flashing: It is the first line of sealant against leakage since it is installed below the shingles and diverts water far away form the house.

5. Counter Flashing: Counter flashing is installed on top of base flashing and prevents water penetration because of forming a double wall.

6. Step Flashing: Step flashing is applied on to the sides of chimneys and at areas where there are roof lines to shift because it creates a snug fit to keep rain water away.

7. Continuous Flashing: A single strip of this type of flashing is applied next to the ridge of the roof, forcing water downwards, thus preventing any water entry causing leaking.

8. Vent Pipe Flashing: This is applied on those low-angle or flat roofings, where there is a seal around the pipes or any other sticking out of the roof to enable water to not get in.

9. Kickout Flashing: This is applied at the intersection of a roof and side wall which makes a waterproof seal or hold together that ensures protection of the roof structure.

10. Skylight Flashing: Skylights are beautiful but leads to leaking as well since it is the joints where leakage occurs. Proper installation of skylight flashing takes water away, preventing the occurrence of leaks.

11. Valley Flashing: Valley flashing is designed to be fitted at the point in which the two rooflines meet and provides a good seal around the skylights and directs waterways to prevent the destruction of the roof valley.

Finally, leakages can be eliminated.

During the construction of a good roof, one of the procedures that can be identified is the selection of an appropriate eave flashing which is the metal sheeting or rubber that covers your home to prevent the entry of damaging water into your house that can cost you a small fortune. Discuss it with a roofer to know the available types and make a choice that will adapt to the design of your house and the climate in place. When you invest a little in quality eave flashing, you can guarantee that years and years later your house will remain dry.