The flashing protects your roof and its underlying components from moisture damage. But like most roofing components, it may be subjected to failure if not properly installed or maintained. In this blog post, we take a look at the many causes of flashing failure and their effects on your roof and home. We’ll also tackle a few ways to address it, including damaged roof repair.
Causes of Roof Flashing Failure
Roof flashing failure can be caused by the following:
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Poor Installation. A poorly-installed flashing is more likely to fail early in the roof’s life span. The resulting gaps allow moisture to seep through, which can lead to extensive roofing issues. It may also be susceptible to wind damage or other environmental factors.
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Improper Roof Design. An inadequately designed roofing system prevents the flashings from doing their intended function of protecting the system’s most vulnerable parts, which can lead to its deterioration.
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Age of the Roof. A roof that’s nearing the end of its serviceable life is no longer capable of protecting your home from the elements. In that state, it is possible that the flashing has already suffered wear and tear because of long-term exposure to the elements. A lack of maintenance over the roof’s life span can expedite the aging process, which means a premature replacement of the entire system may be due.
What Can Happen When Roof Flashing Fails?
Flashing failure compromises your roofing system’s longevity and weather performance. Below are some of the most common problems associated with it:
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Leaks. The most common issue associated with flashing failure is the presence of leaks. Once your flashing sustains damage, it leaves your roof exposed to runoff.
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Structural Damage. Roof flashing failure can weaken the structure of your roof because of water intrusion, which may lead to sagging and other related issues. This type of damage can be expensive to repair and could put your home at risk.
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Mold Growth. Since water can easily enter through your roof via the damaged flashing, your attic may provide the perfect environment for mold to grow. If left unaddressed, this could cause significant health problems for you and your family.
Tips to Protect Your Roof From Flashing Failure
Proper installation and maintenance are vital to keeping your flashings and the rest of the roof’s components in top shape. Having the whole system inspected allows you to stay on top of issues. If you have an older roof, however, it’s a good idea to have a professional roofing company inspect it thoroughly to determine if its structural integrity is still intact or a shingle roof replacement is due.
Keep Your Roof in Top Condition With Barnett Roofing
Damaged roof flashing shouldn’t be ignored. Schedule emergency roof repairs by getting in touch with Barnett Roofing in Knoxville, TN. Our team of experienced professionals can inspect your roof to keep your home protected. Call us at (865) 936-6959, or fill out our online contact form for a free estimate.
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