Roof Repair - Roof Flashing Problems: Why They Cause Leaks and How to Repair Them

When it comes to protecting your home from water damage, roof flashing plays a critical but often overlooked role. Flashing is the metal (usually aluminum, lead, galvanized steel, or even copper) installed around vulnerable areas on your roof — such as chimneys, skylights, vents, and valleys — to direct water away and prevent leaks. But when flashing gets damaged or deteriorates, it can cause serious roof leaks that may lead to costly repairs if left unchecked.

What Is Roof Flashing and Why Is It Important?

Flashing acts as a waterproof barrier at roof joints and seams where water is most likely to penetrate. Without properly installed and maintained flashing, water can seep under your shingles and into the roof decking, causing rot, mold, and structural damage. It’s a small but vital component that protects your entire roof system.

Common Flashing Problems That Lead to Leaks

• Corrosion and Rust: Over time, metal flashing can corrode, especially if exposed to moisture or salt air. Rust weakens the flashing and creates holes.
• Cracks and Gaps: Weather, temperature changes, or physical damage can cause flashing to crack or separate from the roof surface.
• Poor Installation: Flashing that wasn’t properly sealed or fastened during installation can allow water to slip underneath.
• Deteriorated Sealant: The caulking or sealant used around flashing can dry out, crack, or peel away, opening gaps.
• Movement and Shifting: Roof settling or structural movement can cause flashing to become loose or misaligned.

How to Know If You Have Flashing Problems

Signs of flashing issues often include water stains on ceilings or walls near roof joints, visible gaps or rust on flashing, and active leaks during rain. If you notice water dripping inside your attic or notice mold or mildew growth, flashing could be the culprit.

Repairing Roof Flashing: What You Need to Know

While some minor flashing issues can be fixed with new sealant or patching, more extensive damage usually requires professional repair or replacement. Here’s what a typical repair process looks like:

• Inspection: A roofing professional will inspect flashing areas to identify all leaks and damage.
• Removing Old Flashing: Damaged or corroded flashing is carefully removed.
• Repairing the Decking: Any underlying roof decking damaged by water is replaced with new plywood.
• Installing New Flashing: New metal flashing is cut and installed precisely, sealed with high-quality roofing cement or sealant.
• Final Sealing and Inspection: All joints are sealed to prevent leaks, and a final quality check ensures the repair is watertight.

Preventing Future Flashing Problems

• Schedule regular roof inspections to catch flashing issues early.
• Keep gutters clean to prevent water backup near flashing areas.
• Trim nearby tree branches to avoid physical damage to flashing.
• Have a professional inspect flashing after severe storms or roof work.

Fixing flashing problems promptly can save you from major headaches and expensive repairs down the road. If you suspect your flashing isn’t up to the task, contact Brown Roofing to schedule an inspection. Our experienced team will ensure your roof stays watertight and your home protected!