Securing Your Roof: Expert Tips for Installing Asphalt Shingle Roof Flashing

Installing your own asphalt shingle roof can be a great way to repair your home and save money. But it’s important to make sure the job is done correctly, and one of the most important components is getting the flashing installed correctly. Roof flashing prevents water from getting under the shingles and into the house, so correctly installing it is crucial. Here are some tips for installing roof flashing on an asphalt shingle roof that will ensure that your roof remains water tight.

First and foremost, always remember that when you’re installing the shingles on the roof, the flashing that is on the upside of the pitch goes underneath the shingles and the flashing on the downside of the pitch goes above them. Doing this will ensure that any water or snow can run off the roof without having access to back up under the roofing materials. It is also a good practice to use waterproof caulking to cover the seams around the inside of the flashing and boot.

Vent flashing is best installed by buying pre-made flashing that simply slips over the top, and usually seals around the vent with a rubber boot. For any walls that protrude above the roof line, such as an add-on or a garage, step flashing needs to be installed. Step flashing is 8 inch wide pieces of flashing that are folded in half so that each surface has 4 inches of flashing covering the sheeting material. It should be installed beginning at the bottom so that the sections that go down on the roof can be secured with roofing nails on top of the shingles and the sections that go up the wall can be nailed down under the existing siding. It should be run all the way up the wall, with at least a 4-inch overlap, so that the remaining flashing can be folded over.

Edge flashing is the main barrier for the eaves and is formed to prevent water from backing up under the roofing shingles. These pieces come pre-formed and in varying lengths. They should be installed starting at the edge of the eave and line the end up with the end of the sheathing. The section lying on the roof should be secured down with roofing nails, while the section that goes over the eaves simply hangs down. The flashing should be overlapped at least 4 inches for each additional piece of flashing installed, and each piece should be secured in the same manner.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your asphalt shingle roof flashing is installed correctly. Doing this will not only help your roof remain water tight, but it will also allow you to enjoy the savings associated with completing the job yourself. You can easily complete this project with a little knowledge and some basic tools, saving you time and money.