Does flashing go over or under shingles?

Flashing needs to overlap the roof-covering material. However, on asphalt shingles, for aesthetic reasons, the section of the headwall flashing that extends down over the top of asphalt shingles is often covered with a course of shingle tabs.

Is lead used for flashing on roofs?

Lead flashing is preferred. It is resistant to corrosion, making it durable. It's also malleable.

How much does it cost to fix flashing on a roof?

Roof flashing costs typically range between $200 - $500.

Should I replace flashing with new roof?

The only way you can ensure the quality of the flashing is maintained is to replace it and install it properly when replacing the roof.

Does insurance cover roof leaks?

If it's considered "gradual damage," as in, caused by an old roof, a roof poorly installed, rot, or plumbing issues (for example), insurance typically doesn't cover it.

Does a new roof lower insurance?

Often, yes. It's best to give your insurance provider a call to check on how much a new roof will lower your rate before you begin the installation.

How can I know when my roof needs to be replaced?

Signs include shingle edges are curling or shingle tabs cupping, bald spots showing up where granules are missing, and shingles cracking.

Is it normal for a new roof to lose granules?

Yes. This can be due to shedding of the new roof or from shedding from the old roof when workers walked on the it. Clean the granules out of your gutters and keep an eye on the situation. The shedding ought to slow down significantly once the roof has settled, but if it hasn't, you'll want to let the roofer know.

Can I re-roof over old shingles?

Only if it's asphalt being laid over the top of asphalt.

Will a new roof reduce my home energy bill?

It can, but if your attic is poorly insulated, you may not notice much of a cost difference.

In-Depth Product Guide

Roof Flashing

FAQs

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Roof flashing underlayment is a metal layer placed under shingles to protect the roof by directing water and other natural elements away from critical areas. Galvanized steel is the most commonly used metal for roof flashing.

Look for durable materials, typically metals such as galvanized steel, zinc, copper, or even stainless steel. Avoid flashing made of lead where possible, because lead is a toxic element when it is released into the environment. It's important to have flashing installed on problematic roof features such as vents, chimneys, and skylights. Without flashing, water and other natural elements could damage roofs in these areas, could lead to roof leaks, rot and in extreme conditions, collapses.

There are four fundamental types of roof flashing that are used on residential homes.

Base flashing - vents, chimneys, and skylights are a few roof features that benefit from base flashing. Base flashing provides an additional layer of protection for your roof by directing water to the flashing surface.
Continuous flashing - a continuous, single piece of metal flashing that carries water to the shingle below. Continuous flashing is sometimes referred to as apron flashing, as it can act similarly to an apron.
Step flashing - used for roof to wall flashing, is rectangular and curved 90 degrees to ensure that water and other natural elements are directed away from the wall.
Counter flashing - sometimes referred to as cap flashing, counterflashing is metal flashing that directs water from away from masonry and onto the roof surface.

A necessary component of your roof system, extending the life of your building by preventing water leaks.

"The Flash" is the name of a fictional superhero endowed with super speed. The Flash first blazed onto the scene of DC Comics in 1940, and is still zipping across TV screens 76 years later.

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