Have you ever had to deal with a leaking roof? Not only is it costly to repair, but it can also cause significant damage to the roof, gutter systems, and inside of your home. This is especially the case if the damage happens as a result of a blocked gutter or downpipe.
To avoid this type of damage, many homeowners are relying on the gutter repairs Melbourne locals routinely add to their roof maintenance tasks. One of the more common aspects recommended by the experts is the installation of custom flashing.
What are Roof Flashings?
Typically, roof flashing is a thin sheet of material, commonly Zincalume or Colorbond steel, that roofers use to direct water away from the roof. These are installed wherever the roof plane meets a vertical surface such as a wall.
The primary purpose is to seal any open joints to ensure that as much water stays out of the structure as possible. While roof flashing isn’t regarded by many as all that necessary, our experts recommend installing them if you live in a high-rainfall area, have had a leaking roof, you’re upgrading your gutter system.
Not only will you prevent leaks, but you will also reduce the likelihood of mould spores developing in damp areas. Since many gutters are also nesting grounds for pests, flashing is the ideal way to prevent this.
Improve the Effectiveness of Your Drainage System
There are several reasons to invest in a custom-made, watertight flashing barrier for your roof. We’ve compiled a list of the most significant ones worth considering.
1. Protects Your Roof
The water damage that stems from your roof doesn’t just damage the inside of your home. Water that pools up in your gutters can slowly spill over and damage your exterior walls and home structure. This also happens when water leaking from a full gutter or downpipe starts pooling around your foundation.
Some areas of your roof are more prone to water accumulation. The areas that can lead to the most significant damage include the following:
- Skylights
- Roof valleys
- Door openings
- Walls
- Windows
- Chimneys
- Vent Pipes
Flashing seals your roof material which in turn prevents water and other debris from getting underneath it. This is essential for homes that are subjected to the severe and often unpredictable Australian weather. Whatever your roof shape or size, flashing can be customised to fit the space precisely, ensuring there are no gaps.
2. Extends the Life of Your Roof
Ideally, you want any type of additions to extend the lifespan of your roof as much as possible. This will not only reduce the likelihood of potential damage but also ensure that you don’t have to keep replacing the flashing.
Typically, quality flashing can last as long as the roof itself, or up to about 50 years. Many installers will offer a warranty covering weathering for up to 30 years from the date of installation. Since this can be more or less, depending on the installation company and the type of material used, it’s essential to confirm this before opting for a specific option.
You can also ask your installer to check the flashing every year to ensure that there are no signs of corrosion. It’s also a good time to check other components of your roof for damage.
3. Environmentally-Friendly
Many homeowners are constantly looking for more sustainable ways to improve their homes. With so many older components found on older homes, it can be very costly to try and make these greener upgrades all at once.
That said, repairing, replacing, or adding a component is the perfect opportunity to choose the most sustainable or eco-friendly alternative. Fortunately, modern flashing is lead-free, which instantly reduces the impact it will have on your immediate environment.
Whether you’re opting for Zincalume or Colorbond, you’ll be choosing a sustainable option. Keep in mind that potential buyers will also find this aspect very appealing, especially if they are looking for sustainable building practices.
4. Extensive Range of Styles and Colours
Roofers understand that not all roofs are the same. This is why a one-size-fits-all solution won’t create an effective flashing solution. Therefore, flashings are highly customizable so that they can fit any type of roof. Colorbond options ensure that your chosen flashing will either blend in with your existing roof or create a dramatic contrast. It all depends on your personal preference.
5. Complies With Local Regulations
When it comes to your roof, certain regulations govern the types of materials that can be used to repair or improve the existing structure. Outsourcing your flashing installation to a professional will ensure that all aspects such as materials and installation are in accordance with building codes and regulations. Be sure to ask your installer about this.
Final Thoughts
Adding roof flashing is a quick and effective way to reduce any potential water damage to your house structure. Custom flashing can be installed in both residential and commercial buildings. With so many reasons to install this effective component, the only thing left to do is arrange a quote before the rainy season starts!
