Flashing Repair & Replacement in Greenville, SC

A roof is more than just a bit of wood and some shingles. It’s often more complex than many homeowners realize, and there are components like flashing that can help protect the roof and the home from damage. When there is anything wrong with the flashing on the roof, it’s a good idea to seek professional help. At Beemer Kangaroof, we offer assistance with flashing to help keep it in good shape, so it can protect your home and roof. 

What is Flashing on a Roof?

Flashing is a thin sheet of metal that’s designed to route water away from various components on the roof that are more susceptible to water damage. Commonly, steel is used for the flashing, but other metals like copper can be used, too. It is installed around roof features like vents or skylights and the edge of the roof itself to keep water away from where it can cause damage. 

If the flashing is missing, installed incorrectly, or damaged, water can seep into areas where it can end up causing quite a bit of damage before it’s detected. It’s a good idea to have the flashing inspected during regular roof inspections to make sure it continues to be in good shape. If any concerns are noticed, have it repaired quickly to keep the roof and home in good condition. 

Flashing Repair

While some damage can be noticed from the ground, it can be hard to determine if anything is wrong. It’s recommended to have a professional do an inspection, as climbing onto the roof to check for damages can be dangerous, and homeowners may not recognize all types of damage. Some of the most common types of damage include holes or missing nails, dry or missing sealant, corrosion, and flashing that’s loose or missing. 

The repair is done by pulling up the shingles around the damaged flashing, removing any asphalt cement, and inspecting the underlying components for damage. If there is any water damage, repairs will need to be made before the new flashing is installed. Once any damage is fixed, the new flashing and shingles can be installed. 

Can You Put New Flashing Over Old Flashing?

It is never a good idea to put new flashing over the old flashing. Over time, flashing can wear down or have other issues that can lead to leaks. When new flashing is put on top of old flashing, there is the potential for water to get between them. Since the old flashing is older, it can be damaged more easily, which could mean water getting into the home. Instead, it’s much better to only have a single layer on the roof at one time. 

Can You Reuse Old Flashing?

It is typically better to purchase new flashing rather than reuse what is already there. While the existing flashing is already cut and fit to the space, it is likely to wear out faster than new flashing due to its age. This will lead to the potential for leaks and water damage, and it will just need to be replaced further down the line. The exceptions to this are whether it can be removed without damage and if the roof is relatively new. If these are both true, it may be possible to reuse the old flashing. 

Flashing Replacement

When a new roof is installed on the home, the flashing will be replaced, too. Often, it can’t be easily removed from the roof without being damaged, so it’s better to start with new flashing. Once the new roof is installed, the new flashing can be put in place. It is highly recommended that homeowners have a professional handle this job, as there is a huge risk of water damage if the job isn’t done right. The installation process can vary based on the type of flashing, the material chosen, and its location on the roof. Experts will know exactly how to replace the flashing to ensure the home is protected from water. 

Flashing is an often unnoticed but vital part of the roof. When there is any damage or the flashing begins to leak, severe water damage can be the result. Fast repairs and replacements can help protect the home and the roof, preventing water from getting inside. If you’re worried about the condition of the flashing on your home or that there could be water damage, it’s time to call in the pros for help.