Roofing Maintenance: Understanding Your Roof Flashing Material Options
Flashing is an essential material which is applied to structural intersections and joints in roofing. This element is designed to prevent the seepage of water and general leakage in areas of the roof prone to water ingress. For instance, flashing is indispensable around the vents, dormers, chimneys, skylights and vents. If you are planning on installing flashing on your roof as part of maintenance, it is critical for you to select the right product for optimal performance and durability. Here are the materials that you should consider picking for your roof flashing.
Galvanised Steel
Steel is an ideal material for roof flashing because of its inherent strength. This metal can withstand high mechanical pressure and stress without distortion or damage. Also, you can expect extended service after installation in your home. Additionally, the material requires minimal maintenance for optimal performance. You should note carbon steel is vulnerable to rusting and corrosion. However, as long as your flashing is galvanised, this is not a significant concern.
Plastic
Plastic flashing products have become popular in the recent past. The likability of this material can be attributed to the low cost of purchase. In general, this flashing is made from PVC which is a low-cost polymer. It is entirely nonporous and resistant to degradation and damage after exposure to water. However, you should note that there are significant shortcomings of this choice. For example, PVC can degrade when exposed to the harsh solar radiation. Also, this polymer is incompatible with some materials such asphalt.
Aluminium
Aluminium does not have the exceptional inherent strength of steel. However, the material is highly resilient and will provide long-term service when used as roof flashing. The primary advantage of choosing aluminium is the malleability of the metal. The flashing can be bent into different shapes around areas of vulnerability on the roof, providing optimal protection. This option is perfect if you have an oddly shaped roof or roofing elements.
Copper
Copper flashing is exceptionally durable, but the cost of purchase is high. The metal is also robust; it will not deteriorate due to exposure to external mechanical stress. Therefore, you will not need to be concerned about the need for repeated replacements. However, you should note that copper flashing products are typically only used for copper roofing structures.
When purchasing your roof flashing products, you should ensure that the selected material is compatible with the primary roofing structure. Also, the chosen item should be durable and manufactured using high-grade materials for the best functionality and longevity.
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