Why Does My Baton Rouge Roof Need Flashing

Editor's note: This post was originally published on October 20, 2016 and has been updated for accuracy and relevance.

When you think about getting a new roof, there are many things to consider beyond just what type of roof you want. Once you have decided on that, you may hear your roofer mention the flashing that needs to be installed. If you don’t know what flashing is, this may leave you asking, why does my Baton Rouge roof need flashing?

What is Roof Flashing?

In order to understand why you need flashing, you need to know what flashing is. Look up at your roof. The metal you see around your dormers, chimney, air vents, or any corner or change in your roof’s continuity is flashing. Normally flashing is metal, but can be plastic or a composite material.

The reason you need flashing is that it directs water around openings or changes in your roof. All the materials that make up your roof work together to protect your home from the elements of nature. Keeping moisture out of your home is one of, if not the, top priority. Flashing is one of those materials. Whether you have shingles, slate, tile, or any other type of roof , there will be areas where there are seams in the roof. These seams, if left uncovered, would be vulnerable to being penetrated by water. Flashing covers these seams, preventing unwanted moisture from entering your home.

Some people don’t like the look of metal flashing on their roof, and want to find a way to avoid having to see it. Fortunately, there are many options to do this while still keeping the protection that flashing provides. For example, flashing doesn’t always have to be exposed. It can actually be hidden by your choice of roofing material.

Another way to conceal the flashing on your roof is to opt for something other than metal. Options like plastic, or composites are available, but we don’t recommend them. Copper or stainless steel flashing have the longest lifespans and will outlive your existing roof. If your flashing is compromised before the rest of your roof is due to be replaced, it will greatly reduce the remaining lifespan of that roof while simultaneously exposing your attic to moisture problems as well.

If you have any questions about what areas of your roof need flashing, or about replacing your current flashing, please give us a call at Cribbs . We are happy to help.