Flashing plays a big role in keeping your building safe from water damage. But what is it? To put it simply, it’s a thin sheet of metal that stops water from sneaking into the structure and causing trouble. It directs moisture away from vulnerable areas, keeping everything dry inside.
Flashing is one of those things that property developers don’t mess around with – so we’ve put together all the key info you need to understand where flashing should go, and how it’ll keep your building’s occupants nice and dry.
What is the Purpose of Flashing?
Regardless of the type of flashing, it serves one purpose – protecting your building from water penetration. It’s basically a sealant which blocks or redirects water, making sure there’s no physical damage to your property. Installing flashing extensively, and correctly, across your build is a really valuable investment, eliminating the chances of structural issues which in turn can lead to huge repair bills – and no one wants that!
When Should Flashing be Installed?
Flashing should be installed anywhere you would expect there to be excess water run off, or where there are susceptible gaps between walls, windows or other finishings.
The different types of flashing are wide ranging and often determined by the size and shape of the area they are tasked with weather-proofing – read on to find out more.
Roof Flashing
Roof flashing directs water away from the building’s seams and joints, protecting its structural integrity from rainfall and water run-off.
Interested in roof flashing? – Check out our detailed article here.
Wall Flashing
Wall flashing prevents water seeping inside the structure and redirects any water that’s gathered outside. It’s most commonly used to protect embedded installations – we’re talking windows.
Sill Flashing
Installed under windows and doors, sill flashing prevents water creeping in. It’s essentially the last line of defence your building has, with the aim of collecting excess water and directing it away from the door or window frame.
Drip Edge Flashing
Drip edge flashing is a metal flashing installed along a roof’s edges to redirect water from the fascia and into the gutters, taking it far away from your building.
Stepped Flashing
Designed to weather-proof junctions where there is a slope, stepped flashing is often installed around chimney stacks and on pitched roofs.
Kickout Flashing
Kickout flashing is your building’s attempt to kick water away from your walls and cladding. You’ll find it at the bottom of roof and wall installations – its job is to divert water towards the drainage systems and is an extremely valuable line of defense for your building!
Valley Flashing
Valley flashing is used when two roofing sections meet to form a valley. Since valleys are prime spots for water to pool, flashing is essential to keep everything dry and in great shape. Now, here’s the thing – some people aren’t huge fans of how valley flashing looks, since it can stand out a bit. But don’t worry, there are ways to make it blend in! You can match your flashing to the roof by painting it or adding some of the same roofing particles to help it merge seamlessly with the rest of the design.
Do You Need Flashing Around Doors and Windows?
Yes, you definitely need flashing around doors and windows! It’s one of the most crucial areas where flashing is used to prevent water damage. When water gets behind the trim or around the edges of your door or window, it can seep into the walls, causing all sorts of problems like rot, mold, and even structural damage over time.
Metal Flashing at Kladworx
Need a little guidance? No problem! Get in touch with us today, and we’ll help you find the perfect solution for your build. We offer tailored advice and, for those based in London or the South East, we can arrange a site survey to make sure you’re getting the right materials for the job. Let’s make your project a success!
