Types of Edge Metal Flashing
Rain can penetrate your home and deteriorate the wood if metal flashing is not used on the exterior of the home. Flashing is one way to keep your home protected from water damage caused by leaks. Different exterior construction materials use different types of metal edge flashing. Does this Spark an idea?
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Drip Edge
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Roofers install drip edge along the roof eaves, gable ends and rakes. The metal flashing goes under the roofing material to prevent water from penetrating the edge of the roof. When water runs down off the roof shingles, it can seep under the bottom of the eaves and onto the overhangs, rafters and plywood. Water causes the wood to deteriorate and dry rot.
Step Flashing
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Skylights and chimneys have step flashing installed around the edges. The metal flashing has a 90-degree angle bent into the design so it can slip under each row of shingles. The joint or edge between the chimney, skylight or other roof extensions have this metal edge flashing placed to prevent water from running into the interior of the home. A water leak in these areas can cause the insulation to mildew and the drywall to deteriorate.
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Continuous Flashing
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Continuous flashing covers the edge of the siding, at the top and bottom of the building material. The metal flashing prevents water leaks along the edge of the siding. It is especially important for the corners of the home and where the sloped roof meets the vertical exterior wall, because water penetrates the home easier in those areas.
Window Flashing
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Even though the edges of the window have trim boards covering them, a gap between the window opening and the window frame still exists. You install the flashing on the edges of the window covering the gap between frame and siding to prevent water penetration in this area. The window trim covers the flashing after installation.
Vent Flashing
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Roof vents help circulate the air running under the roof construction and allow the roofs to breathe. Every vent must have metal flashing installed around the edges of the vents to prevent water leaks in these areas. Installation of the flashing must be done before the shingles get placed over the roofing plywood.
Masonry Flashing
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Masonry flashing runs along the edge of bricks. Brick layers or masons install flashing along each vertical or horizontal edge of the bricks to seal the joint between the brick edge and the siding. Whether installing the brick construction half-way up the front of the home or all the way up to the sloped roof, the edges between the brick and siding or roof must be covered by masonry flashing.
Deck Flashing
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Like continuous flashing, deck flashing uses one piece of sheet metal, but constructed and designed for installation between the deck's ledger board and the house. You nail the flashing along the edge of the decking where the ledger board connects to the house. The flashing has the same purpose as other flashing: it prevents water from penetrating the stick frame of the house.
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References
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