Flashing comes in different shapes and sizes, but its function remains the same: to add water resistance to leak-prone roof areas. In most cases, the strength of your roof depends on its weakest flashing.
All flashing, however, doesn’t age the same. Today, Ritco Group talks about some of the best flashing materials used in new construction and renovation roofing projects:
Galvanized Steel
Steel is popular in construction because of its affordability, but its susceptibility to corrosion attracts criticism. To make it more weather-resistant, a protective zinc coating is applied to help delay the formation of rust due to oxidation. Zinc has a self-healing quality, allowing it to repair the scratches it sustains on its own.
Zinc
Speaking of zinc, it can be excellent material for roof flashing, except that it’s not that common in America. It can be difficult to source it, which could drive its cost up.
Aluminum
Of all metals, aluminum perhaps offers the most balanced trade-off among durability, malleability and affordability. Although its need for maintenance is high for certain applications, its winning characteristics make it worth the extra demanding upkeep.
Copper
The industry considers copper a premium material for good reason. It weathers extremely well and requires no finishing to endure the effects of harsh elements. Considering that failed flashing is a common cause of leakage, it’s a sound choice to lower your long-term roof storm repair costs.
In terms of aesthetics, it ages gracefully. Bright, shiny copper forms dark greenish patina with years of exposure to the weather. If you have a copper roof, matching it with flashing of the same material helps highlight its distinctive character.
Let Ritco Group help you figure out the most suitable flashing material for your roof. Call us at (931) 208-2300 to schedule your consultation and get a FREE estimate in Brentwood or Murfreesboro, TN.