The top of your roof is out of sight and out of mind. Meanwhile, it’s under constant attack from the elements, such as raging storms, hail and winds; from nature, such as invasive pests and tree limbs; and even careless or inattentive workers, tenants or others. Each one of these “roof invaders” can create damage, including unintended leaks. One of the most vulnerable items on your roof, one that can be harmed by any of those threats but is one of the most important areas to maintain, is the flashing installed around roof features and penetrations.
What is Roof Flashing?
Roof flashing is a roof component typically made of different materials such as rubber, metal, galvanized steel, aluminum, lead or copper. It is used to properly seal and terminate multiple types of roof penetrations, accessories, transitions and/or walls, creating a watertight seal to prevent leaks and water intrusion that could lead to damage. Basically, it’s what keeps a roof leak-proof.
You’ll commonly find flashing in many locations on the roof, such as around HVAC units, plumbing vents, skylights, chimneys, pipes and low-voltage cables. Over time, flashing can wear away from normal wear and tear, requiring replacement. Additionally, flashing is typically sealed with a sealant, such as caulk, which will eventually crack and degrade. This is a 3-to-5-year maintenance item. But there are many other things that can create problems with flashing. Here are just a few of those threats:
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- High winds can pull the flashing away from the roof, exposing the underlying structure. Detached flashing can cause major issues for your roof and property, as well as bodily harm.
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- Animals, such as squirrels, raccoons and especially birds, can cause extensive damage by gnawing on the materials.
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- Large branches or other heavy debris can fall or blow onto the roof, puncturing, bending or damaging the roof, including flashing.
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- Temperature fluctuations can cause the flashing materials to expand and contract, causing them to separate from the roof.
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- The use of incompatible metals, incorrect fasteners and improper installation can all exacerbate problems.
The Benefits of Maintaining Your Roof
Because of these host of potential pitfalls, continual inspection and regular maintenance of the flashing around commercial roof penetrations isn’t just a good idea — it’s essential. An experienced roofing professional can inspect your roof with the right tools and equipment. They know what to look for, such as areas that show signs of corrosion or deterioration and small gaps that can expand to create major issues. They will also know how to address those areas, whether by recaulking or repair.
There are many benefits to roof maintenance and flashing repair or replacement. Here are five main ones:
1. Increases the Longevity of Your Roof
When a roof leaks, moisture can become trapped in its structure, leading to rot and premature roof failure.
2. Maintains Your Roof Warranty
Most roof warranties require regular maintenance. Few issues are as expensive as replacing a roof, and few are as frustrating as discovering your warranty is null and void due to neglect.
3. Prevents the Growth of Mold
When water infiltrates a building, the damp atmosphere encourages mold growth. This can also negatively impact the air quality inside the building, which can be especially problematic for people with allergies or lowered immune systems.
4. Protects Insulation
A roof leak often damages attic insulation above the ceiling or in the attic. This increases energy bills and can also cause material deterioration, decking decay and other problems.
5. Helps Balance Your Budget
We can provide reports detailing any significant issues you may need to budget for in the future.
Staying proactive and vigilant with your flashing maintenance can ensure your building remains safe, dry and efficient for years to come.
The Benefits of Defend 360
At Roofing Corp of America, our Defend 360 Preventative Maintenance Program helps you get the most out of your roofing assets with high-quality care and service. We’ll ensure your roof remains watertight, and if we see a flashing issue, such as cracked sealant, we’ll fix it on the spot. With Defend 360, our professionals regularly inspect and actively maintain your roof portfolio, providing detailed reporting and priority service so you can extend the life of your roof, minimize repair costs, improve compliance, maintain or even extend your manufacturer’s warranty and ensure priority leak response.
Defend 360, along with Restore 360 and Respond 360, is part of our RoofAdvantage 360™ comprehensive commercial roof service and maintenance plan. An investment in RoofAdvantage 360 pays off in the short and long term.
Learn more about RoofAdvantage 360 here.
Rely on RoofAdvantage 360 to Ensure Optimal Warranty Coverage
RoofAdvantage 360 is a comprehensive commercial roof service and maintenance solution developed by the reputable and experienced contractors of Roofing Corp of America. With our Defend 360 preventative maintenance program, your roof will be regularly inspected and maintained by a contractor with experience and proven roofing know-how. We’ll provide detailed documentation, and when possible we’ll keep digital copies on hand to help support your needs should they be needed in the future.
Contact us today to learn more about RoofAdvantage 360 and how we can help you extend the life of your roof, lower your overall costs, and get the most from your warranty.
