Roof flashing is a type of material used to secure shingles to the roof. It protects the roof from the harsh elements, including hail, ice, and wind. However, due to age, flashing will eventually lose its protective function, and repair or replacement is required. In this article, we’ll look at some of the common types of flashing. This information can help you determine which type of flashing you need.

What Is Roof Flashing?

Continuous flashing

Continuous roof flashing, also called apron flashing, is a piece of metal that stretches across the entire roof and directs water down to the shingles below. Long pieces of continuous flashing have a difficult time flexing with the changing seasons, which could lead to them cracking or breaking. To avoid this problem, choose flashing materials with built-in expansion joints. You can purchase continuous roof flashing in rolls of different widths, which you can cut on the job site.

Continuous flashing is commonly used in drier regions, such as the desert southwest. But there are some places where it is not recommended. The most obvious example is where a roof meets a sidewall, as this is an area where water can pool. If the sidewall has continuous flashing, you should avoid this because it is a mistake. This can lead to a small section of roofing cement to fail, which will allow water to leak and potentially cause rotting wood.

When installing continuous roof flashing, it is important to remember that you must be very careful to avoid tearing off shingles. A good rule of thumb is to make sure that continuous roof flashing rests on the edge of the shingle before attaching it to the wall. When you are installing continuous flashing, make sure to place it at the front wall before you install siding, bricks, or stucco. Brick walls will require some pried-up work, so be sure to use caution when removing them.

During the installation process, continuous flashing should be installed where the sloped roof meets a vertical wall. This prevents water from running under the shingles and into the wall cavity. Continuous flashing can also be installed on the front or side of a dormer wall. If your home has a dormer, you can use continuous roof flashing on both sides to prevent leaking. However, if your home is an old house, it is recommended that you install it in an older house with an older roof.

Base flashing

The purpose of roof flashing is to keep water from getting between the shingles and the walls of the house. It also works like a gutter for the roof deck. Base flashing is a solution for front walls because it is just one length of flashing that is bent to match the pitch of the roof. It is usually installed under the siding or underlayment and may not be visible from the ground. The basic idea behind roof flashing is to keep the water where it belongs – in gutters.

Roof flashing is often made of steel, which has both aesthetic and corrosion-resistant qualities. In some areas, building codes require certain types of flashing, including minimum thickness requirements. Generally, the minimum thickness for steel flashing is 26 gauge. Using modified bitumen roofing tape is another option to aid with roof flashing. Make sure the tape is manufactured to the appropriate building code specifications. It should also meet the width requirements and thickness requirements.

The most common roofing system includes two types of roof flashing: base and cap. Base flashing typically extends eight to 12 inches above the waterline. Cap flashing typically laps the base flashing by four inches and ends in a continuous through-wall cap receiver or reglet in the masonry or concrete wall. This type of flashing prevents water from leaking through the coping joints. Flat roofs often have gravel finish, so base flashing is often made of metal. Moreover, the metal gravel stop is installed from the edge of the roof to the face of the roof fascia.

In some cases, roof leaks can be the result of roof flashing issues. Whether or not the flashing was properly installed, it may have become damaged or loose. Inclement weather can make the flashing deteriorate and leak, causing water to seep through the roof and enter the attic and walls. If left unattended, this can result in severe water damage and mold growth. Therefore, it is essential to regularly inspect your roof for damage.


Often overlooked, counter-flashing is the second layer of protection that prevents water from penetrating behind the first layer of protection. Think of it as extending your pant legs over the bottom of your rain boots. If you tucked your pants inside your rain boots, you would have a dysfunctional flashing detail. The same principle applies to the installation of counter-flashing. So, to prevent water from penetrating into your home, install the counter-flashing at all roof/wall intersections.

While installing the counter-flashing, be sure to follow the proper installation and manufacturing instructions. Some counter-flashings can be installed improperly in mortar joints that weren’t fully filled. It’s also important to install counter-flashing at an appropriate height above the brick or other materials. Otherwise, moisture will enter behind the counter-flashing and seep into the roof structure. By properly installing counter-flashing, you’ll be sure that your roof is in excellent condition.

One important aspect of counter-flashing is that it forces water downwards. While counter-flashing works well in some conditions, it isn’t suitable for every application. Aluminum, a less expensive material, is prone to oxidation and corrosion. It must also be properly cared for to avoid damage. However, some metals contain acids and other chemicals that can corrode the metal flashing.

Aside from preventing water damage, counter-flashing also provides a clean look to the roof. It is usually metal and may contain zinc, copper, or aluminum. Its primary function is to keep other components of the roof waterproof and free of moisture. Without proper counter-flashing, water will seep in and saturate the interior of the house, which could lead to a leaking roof. This is why the installation of counter-flashing is so crucial.


Lead has been the primary material used for roof flashing for hundreds of years. Lead is resistant to corrosion and is extremely durable in exterior settings. It is also malleable, which allows it to be formed into different shapes. Lead is non-flammable and has a silvery grey finish that is compatible with a wide variety of building materials. For this reason, it is often used in the construction of chimneys. It can also be formed into any shape needed for any roof, including dormers and parapets.

Lead roof flashing is typically made of code 4 milled lead, which provides a good compromise between malleability and fatigue splits. However, code 3 milled lead is thinner and lighter than code 4, so it can be used for lead soakers, which are waterproof sections that sit beneath the tiles. Lead soakers are more susceptible to water penetration and can develop a white stain if they are too deep, so it is important to follow all of the manufacturers’ recommendations for lead flashing.

Another popular material for roof flashing is galvanized steel. Galvanized steel is great for metal roofs, and most flashings are coated with zinc to prevent corrosion and help them last longer. Copper flashings are also a good choice, because they are stain-free. Lead flashings are the second-longest-lasting, and have been used for roofs across the United States. They can last for as many as 200 years.

Lead is a toxic element and has long been a source of concern for homeowners. While it is not dangerous to inhale lead fumes, it can be a temptation for thieves. Lead flashing is more common on older buildings and larger buildings, and it can deter potential buyers. Lead is also toxic, so proper precautions must be taken whenever lead is being handled. This includes wearing gloves and washing exposed areas with soap and water to prevent lead poisoning. After removing the old lead, it should be treated with patination oil to prevent further corrosion.


A copper roof ridge can enhance the look of a sloping roof. Copper is highly durable, attractive, and provides a high degree of protection. When used correctly, copper flashing can be installed in a variety of roof systems, including tile, shingle, and panel. Likewise, copper roof flashing is a good choice for flat and standing seam roofing, and green roofs. Learn more about copper roof flashing in this article!

The most common type of roofing is architectural asphalt shingles. Copper roof flashing is not often used on these shingles, but if your budget allows it, consider installing copper roof flashing. Copper flashing is expensive, but you’ll notice the difference in your roof’s appearance and value after a few years. Copper also offers some additional benefits that you might not find in other materials. Here are three of the most popular advantages of copper:

A copper roof can increase the overall curb appeal of your home, but it can be pricey. You can add copper roof flashing to your new roof when replacing it or upgrading your old roof. Copper has the ability to patina, which gives it an aged appearance. A copper patina is beautiful and makes your home look old, but it can also increase your property value. It can last for decades, so you might as well get the most bang for your buck.

Another benefit of copper roof flashing is its strength and durability. Copper flashing is a thin sheet metal that prevents water from seeping underneath the roofing material, which can damage the roof deck or attic. Usually, copper roof flashing is installed in vulnerable areas such as around chimneys, dormers, and roof vents, but it can also be installed around windows and doorways. This is particularly beneficial in humid areas where the climate is humid. And, because copper is more durable than galvanized steel, copper can be reused on new roofs. In the end, copper is the best choice for flashing.