Flashing Installation For Wood Roofs

Installing flashing on wood roofs is not difficult and can be done by anyone with the right tools and skills. Most people don’t have the skills or knowledge required to complete such a job. This is why local contractors are often called in. You should still have the following information.

Copper Flashing

Copper is popular for flashing wood roofs with. However, experts recommend that it not be used in conjunction with red cedar. It can cause soluble tannins to etch copper when it comes into direct contact with the roof. This could result in perforations that last ten to twenty years, and a shorter lifespan.

In some parts of the United States, such roofs can fail before they are even installed. This is especially true for areas east of the Great Lakes that are often exposed to acid rain. The Copper Development Association suggests that you add a cant to the flashing joints. This will hold the edge of your cedar away from copper to prevent acidic water etching into it and causing damage.

Specifications For Valleys

Most wood roofs can be used with open valley designs. The International Residential Code (IRC), for valley flashing, requires that there be at least 11 inches of extension on each side for shakes, and at most 10 inches for shingles. However, contractors may choose to use valleys 24 to 36 inches depending on the drainage area and pitch. A 36 inch layer No. When 30 felt is placed directly underneath the metal, it will protect the valley from flashing. Protective measures include adding a layer of self adhesive bituminous membrane to the sheathing. To nail, make sure you leave at least 12 inches between the valley centerline and the valley edge.

Skylights And Chimneys

Step flashing should be used on the sides of skylights and chimneys. Shakes should be 4 inches long for horizontal legs, and 3 inches for vertical legs. Use 2-1/15 inches for shingles. You can use a soldered apron below the chimney with a soldered head. For larger chimneys with significant water flow, a chimney cricket may be used.

Safety

Safety is a top priority. A safety harness is essential when you are walking on the roof’s surface to avoid serious injury and falls. Double-check your harness before climbing on the roof.

Also, make sure the surface is safe to walk on. Avoid climbing on roofs that are wet or have leaves, as this could lead to a slip-and-fall accident. You can clean the roof with a broom if it is necessary. If you are unsure about the roof’s strength, it is best to contact a roofing professional.

Conclusion

This information will help you choose the right material and how to install it. For flashing wood roofs, consult a professional at A Old Time Roofing if you are unsure.

This post was written by Ted Williams! Ted is the owner of A Old Time Roofing which is the premier Largo Roofing Contractor! Ted is a Master Elite Weather Stopper GAF Roofing Contractor, a double award winner of Best Steep-Slope Contractor from GAF and achiever of Master Elite Consumer Protection Excellence from GAF. He has been serving the Pinellas County area since 1978.  Old Time Roofing has a tradition of quality workmanship, servicing residential and commercial properties