Common Signs That Your Roof Flashing Is Damaged

Your roof consists of many different components that work together to keep your home sealed against the elements. One of the most important components of your roof is the flashing. Roof flashing stops rainwater from penetrating the gaps between your roof materials.

In Australia, roofers use flexible but durable materials like aluminium, galvanized steel, rubber and lead as roof flashing. If your flashing suffers damage, rainwater can penetrate your roof freely around the joints of vents, chimneys, skylights, roof ridges and valleys.

Even if the rest of your roof is in good condition, one damaged piece of flashing can lead to interior water damage. To ensure that your roof flashing is in good condition, check for the following signs.

Internal water damage

One of the first signs that your flashing has failed is moisture within your home in areas that should be dry, such as your attic or bedrooms.

Wood rot, ceiling and wall staining and even sagging ceilings may all be an indicator of compromised flashing. Interior water damage is a serious issue because an affected roof will eventually sag and even collapse if not repaired. 

Mould growth

Wherever moisture takes hold, both inside and outside, you’ll see mould thrive. When flashing fails, mould may soon follow. You may see mould on roof tiles, fascia boards and the siding of your home if the flashing has failed.  

Exterior water staining and bubbling paint

Another problem that might affect your home’s exterior is water staining. Normally, functioning flashing directs water into the gutter system. But if rainwater runs down your home’s exterior walls instead, you’ll eventually begin to notice water staining on your home’s siding. If your home’s exterior walls are painted, you’ll see paint bubbling, which occurs in the presence of moisture.

Loose or missing pieces of flashing

Roof flashing deteriorates over time because of exposure to wind, rain and sunlight. And heavy storms can tear flashing loose or remove it completely. This is why inspection is so important after heavy storms. Loose or missing flashing leaves your roof exposed to the elements.

Missing or loose flashing also invites pests to enter your roof and take up residence. Along with water, pests can affect your roof’s ability to insulate your home. So make sure to inspect your roof and keep an eye out for any bare spots where flashing used to be.

Warping and wrinkling

When you are inspecting your flashing, if you spot visible signs of disfiguration like warping, bending, cracking or wrinkling, your flashing is on its way out. Flashing should be smooth and free of surface imperfections. Water can collect in surface imperfections and speed up rust and corrosion damage. And gradually, the coating of galvanized steel flashing will weaken over time if its surface is wrinkled or warped in any way.  

Holes

Holes occur due to rust, animal damage and damage from flying debris in storms. Holes are a serious problem because even the tiniest hole will let rainwater into your home. And holes in your flashing will gradually worsen over time, so you need to address them quickly.

Rust

All roof flashing starts with a protective finish that fights rust and corrosion. But over time, corrosive elements in the air, like salt, will eventually take their toll on roof flashing and cause rust. Rust is a sign that your roof flashing is beginning to deteriorate.

Does your home on the Sunshine Coast need some roof maintenance? Have you noticed that your flashing is looking worn? Then call Homestyle Roof Painters today for an obligation-free quote. Even minor roof repairs can extend the life of your roof by many years!