Flashing is a thin material that roofers use to keep water and other moisture sources away from roof materials. Without it, your roof can soak up moisture, deteriorate, and damage parts of your home interior. Unfortunately, poor installation and natural wear can cause the flashing to deteriorate over time. This can cause extensive damage to the roof and other parts of the structure. Thus, it's paramount to be on the lookout for the following signs that indicate you need to replace your roof's flashing.
Roof Leaks
A common sign of poor flashing that often goes unseen is roof leaks. Leaks usually go unnoticed because most people rarely inspect their roofs or attics. You will only realize the problem when the damage is extensive and costly. Below are some of the common signs of roof leaks due to worn flashing:
- Leaks around the corners of the ceiling
- Water stains around the chimney if you have one
- Stains on the ceiling and along interior walls
- Sagging plaster ceiling
- Chipping or bubbling paint on the ceiling
You may also find leaks around installations such as roofing vents, skylights, and solar panels. Replace the flashing immediately to prevent further water damage to your home.
Mold in the Interior Spaces
Mold thrives in warm, high-moisture environments. When your flashing is worn, it allows moisture into the roofing materials. This, coupled with the warm temperatures on the interior side of the roof, creates an ideal breeding ground for mold. The following are the signs that you have mold in your home due to roof leaks:
- A musty or earthy smell in your attic or around the affected parts of the ceiling
- Black or brown stains on the ceiling and walls
A sudden spike in respiratory allergies is also a sign of mold in the home. Unfortunately, once mold spores begin to grow, they can multiply rapidly over time. It's paramount to replace any worn flashing to prevent further mold growth.
Physically Deteriorating Flashing
You don't have to wait for the above signs to know that you have worn flashing on your roof. A physical inspection of the structure can unearth this problem and allow you to fix it early. If you can access the roof, inspect the flashing around areas such as the roof edges, chimney, and skylight and along the base of vent pipes. If you notice any rust or sign of physical wear, you should replace the material immediately.
Roof flashing may be an inexpensive material, but it plays a critical role in maintaining the integrity of the structure. Contact a roofing contractor for flashing inspection and repairs.
When you build a home or make a large addition to the home, you will hire a general contractor to oversee the project and do the majority of the work. This individual may subcontract some small tasks to specialists, such as window installers and HVAC techs, but for the most part, it is their responsibility to ensure everything is built according to plan.
As you can imagine, general contractors have very varied jobs. No two days are alike! On this website, you will learn more about what general contractors do, which will come in handy the next time you need to hire one.