When it comes to a project for your home like Bloomington roofing, homeowners spend a lot of time selecting the style and color. Although this is a central part of the process, it is just as important to understand the components being installed along with your shingles. Flashing acts as a protector for your home from water damage. Flashing is probably not the first thing you think about when considering a new roof. However, it is not something that should not be ignored because without it, the lifespan of your roof can shorten significantly.

Before we continue, let us discuss what flashing is. Flashing is used to seal and protect joints in a building from water penetration by directing the flow of water away from these otherwise susceptible areas. This prevents your roofing and underlayment from absorbing the water. There are multiple types of flashing. Ahead we will explain some details of each.

Kickout flashing is primarily used to protect the home’s structure, windows, and siding. Flashing also prevents water from going behind siding where the roof meets a wall. Kickout flashing is installed over the edge of a roof. If kickout flashing is not installed, the water that runs down your roof would directly splash on your windows and siding. After time, mold, rot, and structural damage occur.

Valley flashing goes in an area where two bordering sloped roof planes intersect on a roof creating a v-shape depression. These valleys can be common sources of roof leaks because there are two angles of water flow meeting in one area creating demand on that space. Inadequate or improper installation of valley flashing can result in your roof caving or the roof deck rotting.

Drip edge flashing is installed on the roof gable edges and eaves. It helps preserve the fascia board from windblown rain. Drip edge also helps prevent your shingles from sagging into your gutters or being pulled off by strong winds.

Sidewall flashing is installed where a section of a roof meets a vertical wall. It adds another level of protection to prevent water from leaking behind the walls, siding, etc. Without this, moisture that enters can lead to rot, mold, etc.

Step flashing is positioned in a way so that the flashing steps up the roof with each progression of shingles. This type of flashing actually looks like steps going up a wall. This is a protector against leaking where a roof and wall meet.

Vent pipe flashing defends against water damage to your home. Commonly you can see a vent pipe sticking out along your roofline from a bathroom, hot water heaters, etc. As time passes, the seal between the pipe and the roof erodes. Vent pipe flashing helps prevent possible water damage.

Chimney flashing goes around the chimney. It is placed to protect from water. If you notice water stains on walls near the chimney, it is probable that the flashing has been compromised. Call a professional like Snap Construction as soon as you notice this. Further damage can occur including mold growth.

If your home has a skylight or you are considering installing one, remember that skylight flashing is needed. Because a hole is cut in your roof where the skylight is placed, flashing needs to accommodate the areas that water could enter. Many skylights have flashing kits available to fit the skylight that is installed.

Proper flashing is essential to protect your home against some of nature’s elements. Without the protection, water damage could end up costing you thousands of dollars. Snap Construction can help install flashing for your Minneapolis roof and ensure that your home is properly protected.