What Are The Benefits Of Chimney Flashing
Whenever various kinds of materials especially thin sheets of metal is used to block water from entering a building its called flashing. The principle behind flashing is simple, water will always flow in a certain direction depending on the gravitational pull, so flashing is used to break the surface tension thereby stopping the water and redirecting it in a another direction.
Flashing can be concealed or exposed depending upon the situation. If you are going to expose the flashing it is best to use metals such as, galvanized steel, copper, lead and aluminum. When metal is selected it should be researched as to what its properties are, such as will it corrode, because of materials near it and whether expansion joints need to be used.
As mentioned above there are several different types of metal that flashing can be made from. Galvanized steel, aluminum and lead are the most common ones. Copper is also used but it is much more expensive than the others so it is considered to be a high end metal. The advantage of aluminum is that like lead it will last a long time and is relatively cheap. The cheapest material is galvanized steel but it will only last around 20- 30years.
The purpose of all types of flashing is the same, to prevent water flowing into the building at a specific area. The different types are described below (a )Roof flashing; this type prevents water from going into the house from where ever the roof might meet an obstacle like a pipe or chimney. (b) Wall flashing; this type of flashing prevents the water from coming from outside and into the house. (c) Sill flashing; this type of flashing prevents water from coming under the window sills and door frames. (d) Base flashing; this type of flashing prevents water from entering from where the roof meets the wall.
Every chimney of a house is different from the next one. That is why installing Chimney Flashing is considered to be a custom job. Each time it is done the metal has to be molded differently to suit the house. That means if you are confident that you can do it your self plan such things such as if you are comfortable on a tall ladder or if you are comfortable working on a roof top. Other wise its better to go with a professional.
Learn more about Chimney Flashing. Stop by Alexander Stone’s site where you can find out all about Roof Flashing and what they can do for you.