Common Roof Issues from Inadequate Flashing Around Skylights

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Inadequate Flashing Around Skylights

Skylights can beautify or illuminate your home or commercial building. However, you may face frequent roofing problems, specifically when not adequately protected by roof flashing. Inadequate flashing around skylights is one of the most common issues that cause water to leak from your roof. This problem often arises due to improper installation of damaged flashing. Reading the guide below helps you understand the roof issue, how poor flashing leads to roof leaks, and how to avoid further damage to the entire roof structure.

Role of Flashing Around Skylights

Flashing plays a significant role in separating the roofing features and the roof's surface. It is designed in a way that directs water not to go to the joints where you have installed other roof materials or features like chimneys, skylights, or vent pipes.

Skylights are vulnerable to the sloped roof's edge and vertical surfaces. Properly installed roofing flashing can prevent the standing water from entering your building, which can lead to water damage or even structural damage.

How Inadequate Flashing Triggers Roof Leaks

A homeowner may face a roof leak if the roof installed around the skylight does not have proper flashing protection. At first glance, this starts from single drops of rain. Over time, it becomes rot, mold growth, and damage to your ceilings. Indeed, if this roof problem is not addressed on time, you end up disturbing your internal temperature, which results in expensive roof repair.

Poor installation also makes this situation worse. Multiple contractors can make this mistake and use roofing cement instead of real flashing pieces. After some time, you may face sealant cracks, but they can easily be protected using proper flashing installation, such as step flashing, base flashing, or counter flashing.

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The Consequences of Neglecting Skylight Flashing

Ignoring the signs of a leaking roof can be dangerous. One of the initial warning signs is damaged shingles, which can curl or split around the skylight. Once the shingles are affected, you can experience a confirmed roof leak.

Most homes are built with flat roofs, which makes draining water from the roof difficult. Without proper kickout flashing or a proper drip edge, rain water can easily seep into the framing. This leads to further damage, such as:

Structural damage
Rotting roof decks
Mold infestation
Reduce the roof's lifespan
Interior ceiling or wall collapse

In commercial areas, a leaking cab can cause serious problems for your equipment. You must install flashing at a right angle to prevent continuous roofing problems that lead to costly repairs.

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Flashing Types Used Around Skylights

Installing specific flashing pieces with quality roofing material is essential for roof protection. Here are a few roof flashing types to follow:

Step Flashing

Many homeowners mostly use step flashing around a skylight. This flashing has L-shaped pieces of metal between each course of shingles. The pieces are installed so water flows perfectly from the roof, preventing seepage.
Base Flashing

Base flashing is installed under the skylight, which handles the runoff directly. Indeed, this type of flashing protects your roof against standing water.
Counter Flashing

Counter flashing is installed above the base flashing or vertical surface. It is designed to protect the flashing underneath, preventing it from being lifted by strong winds. This type provides a complete seal because it works with apron flashing and step flashing.
Kickout Flashing

This special type of flashing helps direct water away from walls or roof edges. Water can reach behind siding without proper installation, causing mold and rot.
Continuous Flashing

Continuous flashing is used for the entire length of the joint. However, it may not be a good choice due to roof shrinkage or high winds. In that case, you require multiple pieces of step flashing for flexibility.

How to Select the Right Flashing Material

All roof flashing materials have different properties and benefits. This material selection depends on your budget, climate, and roof design.

Copper Roof Flashing

The most recommended and durable option is copper roof flashing due to its high corrosion resistance, which extends the roof's lifespan. It is often used in multiple homes and buildings that have a cooper roof style.

Aluminium Flashing

One of the lightweight, budget-friendly, and easy-to-cut with tin snips is aluminum flashing. It is primarily used in residential areas and must be separated from dissimilar metals to protect against galvanic corrosion.

Galvanized Steel

If you opt for a durable and cost-effective material, you should prefer galvanized steel. It provides strong resistance against weather conditions. Most importantly, you must perform regular inspections for expert roofing repairs to protect the zinc layer.

Preventive Measures and Long-Term Maintenance

Fixing damaged flashing is undoubtedly essential. There is also a need to take preventive measures. So you need to perform:

Schedule regular inspections at least twice a year.
Clear clogged gutters regularly.
Proper inspection is required for vent pipes, plumbing vent, and flashing points for wear.
Identify signs of shingles after storms.
Check ice dams in winter, which can force water under the flashing.
Monitor clear signs like mold near the skylight.

You must have a certified roofing contractor to maintain your skylight flashing and protect your roof from standing water.

The Professional Approach to Repair Roofing Problems

Skylights make your room look attractive, but when your roof flashing is compromised, you face severe roofing problems. Poor installation or incorrect roof flashing can jeopardize your entire roofing cost, leading to a leaking roof or compromising your shingles.

In case of damage flashing, the most optimal solution is to repair roof flashing with modern tools and techniques. To address this roofing problem, consult professional roofers to ensure all roof sections are properly maintained and awkward areas sealed.

To fix inadequate flashing around skylights, you need to trust your local roofing experts. So they can perform proper installation using high-quality roof flashing materials.

Call LOA Construction at 855-661-3431 to schedule your free inspection today!

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At LOA, we believe success is defined by customer satisfaction. We're proud to say we have some of the happiest clients in the roofing industry! You can find hundreds of 5-star reviews like the ones below online.

"I got three inspections and decided to use LOA Construction for a new roof. LOA’s Dan Harvey worked with my insurance inspector to make sure all the hail/wind damage was accounted for, gave us a good choice of shingle colors, and was great at communicating. The workers did quality work, found and repaired rotted wood and cleaned up. Highly recommend!"

— Brian McFarlin, 5-Star Google Review

"Brandon at LOA construction made replacement of our roof very easy. He was the only roofing contractor that I could find that would work directly with our insurance company. They showed up on time and made the whole process very easy. And we have a great looking high quality roof! I Would definitely recommend them to anyone looking for a new roof. Give them a call if you need a roof or think you might have wind or hail damage. I had several other bids that were higher cost and didn't think our insurance would cover it. Our insurance did cover it, I think they were just unwilling to work with the insurance company. Not Brandon, not only was he will to work with our insurance he met with the adjuster and made the whole thing a breeze. Thanks again LOA and Brandon!!!!"

— Mike A., 5-Star Google Review

LOA Construction has exceeded my expectations again. This is the second roof installation with them and I couldn't be happier. Specifically, Tyler Griffiths is professional, attentive, and made the entire process of working with my insurance company effortless. My tenant sent a glowing account of their experience as well. Knowing it was a rental, they still diligently protected all property and plants. They were on time every time and went out of their way to not inconvenience the residents. LOA Construction has integrity and takes pride in their work. I couldn't recommend them more.

— Sheri Moran

"Worked with Zac and his team. Zac did an outstanding job working with the insurance company to ensure all damage was covered. Roof and gutters installed each were on time and all work was top of the line. This is a company that really does put the customer first. With out question I would recommend loa construction and roofing."

— Tony Smith, 5-Star Google Review

From the very start, I knew I was in good hands. The professionalism was top-notch, but most important, was the caring attitude of the project manager, Dan Harvey, the roofing supervisor, Ambrocio, and the roofing crew. They made sure every detail was covered. They are definitely an asset to LOA Construction. I highly recommend them. Dennis and Suzy S

— Dennis Sanger

Andrew was very great at getting myself and my wife all the information and getting us started from start to completion. His workers were friendly and professional. If ever I had to contact him, he was quick to respond back. We are very happy with the finished product. Yes, I would and have recommended him and his company to get their work by LOA Construction and Austin. Andrew made sure my wife would be satisfied with whatever roof she liked. Can't thank you enough Andrew and LOA Construction.

— Paul Coleman

As a first time home owner with no experience in how to make claims and start the process of getting a new roof I was scared to the point of avoiding what needed to get done after the bad hail storm. August Walker did an amazing job walking me through each step along the way. He answered all my questions and calmed my concerns. They inspected my roof and drove from Austin to Belton just to be there with the ins inspector, and followed up with me in person after the roof was installed. He also made a special trip back to drop off samples! I’m grateful to August and LOA construction for being highly professional and friendly!

— Angela Baker

From start to finish Lee and his team took great care of us. He made us feel comfortable during the process and answered any and all questions we had. I would definitely them recommend to anyone.

— Taneisha Jones

Arthur Harris and his team with LOA Construction did an excellent job on our roof. They finished it in one day. Arthur was very good in explaining all the information to us.

— Crystal Hill

Will, has been so awesome and easy to work with he gets everything we want done the way we want it and also keeps us updated as we are over the road truck drivers !!! Hands down to LOA Construction for their great service and great customer service !!!

— Tanya Dudkiewicz

Dan Harvey is Very Knowledgeable and directed me straight to the products that will save us money in the next 3 years the savings on energy costs alone will pay for the installation itself. I highly recommend LOA Construction and Dan Harvey! Actual Customer Jefferson Fara

— Jefferson Fara

Mark from LOA roofing was very professional from the git, the initial estimate process, he quickly identified all the issues that needed to be addressed. The company was very prompt, to coordinate the crew, and for a very reasonable price, got my roof repaired without any hassle. They also took care of all the cleaning, so that it all looked like nothing happened. I would recommend Mark from LOA to anyone needing a roof repair, with no kind of hesitation.

— Ale León

Loa Construction provides quality services in installing roof and related repairs. I’ll recommend it to my friends and family.

— Peijie Li

Thanks to Landon Wells of LOA Construction for the beautiful new roof! It was all completed in one day including a meticulous clean up job afterwards. The workers were all polite and professional. Landon made sure everything went smoothly and that all of our questions were answered. I am thrilled with our new roof. I would definitely recommend Landon and LOA Construction to all of my friends and family. Thank you Landon!

— Renee Johnson

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Dedicated to excellence, our Austin roofing company ensures quality in every project. Contact our skilled Central Texas roofers for a same-day, hassle-free inspection. Call +1 (512) 375-3654 to book your free inspection.