While it’s easy to think roofs are simply made up of tiles or slates, there are lots of smaller components that contribute to the covering and protect your property from the elements. Flashing is a case in point.
Whether you’re getting your roof repaired or replaced, it’s best to know as much as you can so you can make an informed decision about the materials being used and the contractors you choose. In this post, we’ll take a closer look at flashing, what it does and which materials are best.
The importance of roof flashing
To understand the best materials for flashing, it’s worth considering what it actually does. Flashing is a thin material that sits between joins in the roof. This is usually where features protrude from the roof’s pitch, such as a chimney or dormer.
The job of the flashing is simply to prevent water getting through. With all of this in mind, flashing needs to be malleable so it can be properly installed, waterproof to direct water away from the joins, and durable to stand the test of time.
Flashing materials
There are a range of materials to choose from when it comes to flashing, with most being types of metal. Galvanised steel, aluminium and copper are all reasonably strong and water-resistant options.
That said, lead is by far the most common material for roof flashing, and for good reason too. Lead is superior when it comes to waterproofing, flexibility and durability. With the right installation, this type of flashing can last in excess of 100 years.
The alternatives to lead include modified bitumen rolls with a metal grid for structure. While this does offer a decent balance of rigidity and flexibility, the longevity simply doesn’t compare. There’s a reason it’s become known as ‘lead alternative’.
The only benefit with lead alternatives is that they have no metal scrap value, meaning they won’t be targeted by thieves. This makes it suitable for some commercial properties which may be concerned about lead stripping, but it’s really not that much of a problem for domestic properties, particularly on upper roof areas.
What’s best?
The type of flashing that’s best for your roof depends on what exactly you want from it. If you’ve had lead flashing stolen before, you might prefer a lead alternative with the understanding that you will need to replace it every decade or so.
If you’re looking for longevity and quality, there’s no doubt that lead stands above the rest. At DPR Roofing in Huddersfield, we swear by code 4 lead sheets as the best option for flashing. They’re the ideal fit for our long-lasting roof replacements and repairs, giving you complete peace of mind long into the future.
Quality across the board
A chain is only as strong as its weakest link. For roofs that stand the test of time, you need top quality from every component. That’s exactly what we provide at DPR Roofing, using only the best roofing materials for customers across Huddersfield.
Combined with over 30 years of roofing experience, this allows us to ensure our customers are protected from the elements all year round. Get a quote online today to put our team to the test.