Flashings

An emphasis on quick installations often comes at the expense of flashing. Good flashing installations take time -- but it is time well invested. So, if flashing is to be installed, it is best to invest the effort to make sure it's done right.

The traditional lead flashing is disappearing as is all lead work, this is partly because of the skills involved with  working with lead,  and partly because of the cost of lead, this is starting to go "through the roof" excuse the pun. Intact lead is now so expensive it is becoming a hit list for theft

Although lead still has its place as a good flashing we now you a lot more preformed galvanised steel flashing strips.

This type of flashing carry's a 20 Year guaranty when installed as part of the RubberBond roofing system

Rules of Thumb and Tips

• Flashing is necessary for proper drainage plane performance in walls and for roofing systems.
   
• Most leakage problems are related to improper or insufficient flashing details or the absence of flashing.
   
• All openings in exterior walls and roof penetrations must be flashed.
   

• Caulks and sealants are generally not a suitable substitute for flashing.
   
• Water runs downhill, so make sure flashing is appropriately layered (weathered) with other flashings or the drainage plane material (i.e., asphalt, mineral felt, or rubber).
   
• Water can be forced uphill by wind, so make sure that flashings have recommended width overlap.( overlaps are normally specified  by the materials supplier or specification set out by building control.)
   
• Sometimes capillary action will draw water into joints between stepped flashing that is not sufficiently lapped or that is placed on a low pitch roof; take extra precaution in these situations.
   
• Avoid joint details that trap moisture and are hard to flash.
   
• Treat end joints of exterior wood trim, railings, posts, etc. prior to painting; paint end joint prior to assembly of joints; if pre-treating, be sure the preservative treatment is approved for use with the type of paint or stain being used.
   
• Minimize roof penetrations by use of ventless plumbing techniques, such as air admittance valves, side wall vents, and direct vented appliances (check with local code authority for approval).
   
• Use large roof overhangs and porches, particularly above walls with numerous penetrations or complex window details.

Flat Roofing Flashings

Rubber roof with large overhand flashing to the front edge

Are steel flashings environmentally friendly?

Since it is 100% recyclable, steel is an inherently environmentally friendly material. Recycled steel is used extensively in the production of new steel. Therefore, not only does each steel roof contain a portion of recycled material, but it can also be completely recycled at the end of its useful life. Steel roofs and flashings help keep hundreds of tons of used roofing material out of our landfills each year.