31 Jan Leaky Roof Flashing: Your Roof’s Hidden Weaknesses
When it comes to your home, you do everything you can to keep it maintained and safe. From checking smoke detector batteries to cleaning out the gutters, you check each item off your home maintenance list. However, checking your roof may not ever make it on that list. Because you most likely aren’t a roofing expert, you probably ignore your roof and signs of damage. But, ignoring the signs of damage can leave your entire home vulnerable. One of the most vulnerable parts of your roof that leaves your home at risk is the roof flashing.
What is roof flashing?
Flashing is what directs the flow of water, snow, and melting ice around the openings in your roof. Typically, roof flashing is made from sheet metal or plastic. Examples of roofing parts that need flashing include: skylights, dormers, pipe vents, and chimneys.
When it comes to your roof flashing you need it to be tight around those roofing parts. If it’s not, then the flashing becomes one of your home’s most dangerous hidden weaknesses.
Structural Damage
Everything from high wind speeds to hail damage can cause your roofs flashing to become weak. When flashing allows water, snow, or ice to drip down into your home, it can cause the building materials holding your roof up to deteriorate, which in turn causes major structural damage. A weakened roof system can cave in at the drop of a pin and leave your family in serious danger, out of a lot of money, and in need of somewhere to live while repairs are made.
Mold Can Form
That leaking water from your roof’s flashing can cause mold to build up in your ceilings and in your walls. When mold is inhaled, it can cause serious health issues for your entire family. Not to mention, the cost of repairing your roof and having the drywall in your home replaced can be expensive.
Missing Valley Flashing
Unfortunately, many homes are missing a critical area of roof flashing: the valley of the roofline. Roof valleys are where two roof lines come together and form a “V” shape. This channel is the perfect place for ice damming, which can cause serious leak issues. Making sure the valley has the appropriate flashing will help ensure the melting ice flows where it needs to.
No one wants to leave their roof vulnerable to these hidden weaknesses. Dealing with structural damage, mold, and leaking water isn’t fun and can be costly for any homeowner. The best way to protect yourself against these issues is to have an Indianapolis roofing expert inspect your roof. During our no-obligation inspections, we’ll examine your roof for damage and potential issues that are threatening the safety of your home. Schedule your inspection today!