When it comes to roofing, the materials can make a significant difference between a roof that lasts for decades and one that succumbs to the elements all too quickly. Aluminium flashing is an impervious material and a popular choice among roofers.
Read on to learn more details on what aluminium flashing is, its benefits, and information on how to install and maintain it properly.
What is Aluminium Flashing?
Raw aluminium flashing is a thin piece of impervious material that sits between where the roof intersects with walls, chimneys, vents, doors, windows, and other structures. The flashing keeps moisture away from these vulnerable areas in order to prevent dampness from entering the building.
Aluminium flashing is particularly easy to install. It's also lightweight and resistant to corrosion. Unlike other materials, like copper or lead, aluminium offers customers a cost-effective and durable option.
What is Aluminium Flashing Used For?
Aluminium flashing protects vulnerable sections of the roof against water, leading to moisture and damp in the home. You might use aluminium flashing in the following suitable applications:
- Valleys: Roof valleys create a channel for water to flow down. Aluminium flashing can help direct water off the roof without damaging the roofing material.
- Chimneys or skylights: Protruding structures can create a gap in the roofing material that could expose it to the elements and make it vulnerable to leaks.
- Walls: Risks occur where the roof intersects with walls, and flashing can help protect the join.
- Vents or pipes: Like chimneys, vents and pipes penetrate the roof. Flashing is needed to create a watertight seal.
Benefits of Using Aluminium Flashing
Our roofing protects us from the outside elements, but what protects the roof from heavy rain, extreme sun, and cold weather? With potentially such harsh conditions, you need to choose a flashing material that will do the job well.
Here are a few reasons why raw aluminium flashing will suit your roof.
Resists Corrosion
Aluminium has a natural resistance to corrosion. Unlike steel, which can rust over time, aluminium forms a protective oxide layer coming into contact with air. That protective seal will shield the underlying metal from corrosion and ensure your roof flashing is longer lasting.
Raw aluminium flashing is particularly ideal in coastal areas where salt air can be especially aggressive.
Lightweight
Aluminium is a lot lighter weight than many other flashing materials. A lighter-weight flashing will reduce the overall load on the roof structure, easing pressure and ensuring a more durable building.
Durability
As mentioned, aluminium is a durable material. It can withstand harsh weather conditions – particularly, strong UV rays – without suffering from much deterioration.
You won't need to replace your flashing as often, meaning less work, less expenses, and peace of mind.
Cost-Effective
Not only will you not have to replace your flashing as often, but aluminium comes at a low price point. Unlike other metal flashing materials – like copper, for instance – aluminium flashing is affordable without sacrificing quality or longevity.
Eco-Friendly
Sustainability is an increasingly important consideration when choosing roofing materials. Aluminium is a recyclable material. It can be repurposed without losing its beneficial properties.
How To Install Aluminium Flashing
Aluminium flashing is relatively easy to work with. However, proper installation is important to reap the full benefits.
- Preparation: Before starting, thoroughly clean and dry the surfaces where you'll install the flashing. A clean, dry surface helps the flashing adhere better to the roof and prevents moisture from getting trapped.
- Cutting the flashing: Measure the area needed and cut the aluminium to the appropriate size. Wear gloves to protect your hands.
- Bending the flashing: Depending on where you're using the flashing, you may need to bend the flashing to fit around corners or into valleys. Use a metal brake to create precise bends.
- Securing the flashing: Once in position, secure the flashing to the roof with roofing nails or screws. Overlap the fasteners with the next layer of roofing material so they're well covered to prevent water from reaching them.
- Sealing the edges: To ensure a watertight seal, apply a high-quality roofing sealant along the edges of the flashing. This is especially important around chimneys and vents where the structures protrude.
After you've installed the aluminium flashing, review your work to ensure it's secure and properly sealed. If you spot any gaps or loose sections, fix them straight away to prevent leaks and undo your hard work.
How Long Does Aluminium Roof Flashing Last?
One of the main benefits of raw aluminium flashing is the low maintenance required. That said, like any roofing material, regular inspections and maintenance will help your roof last longer. And, it may prevent any issues from occurring before they become too costly or do too much damage.
If properly cared for, aluminium flashing can last for up to 40 years.
Here are a few tips to keep your aluminium flashing lasting as long as possible.
- It's a good idea to regularly review your roof. Make a yearly inspection for signs of wear or damage, such as cracks, loose fasteners, or damaged or degraded sealant. Make an extra effort to check after severe weather, like storms or heat waves.
- Cleaning your roof and keeping it free of debris, like leaves and dirt, will help ensure it lives a long life. Debris can trap moisture against the metal, which can speed up degradation. Gently use a soft brush or cloth.
- While the aluminium is long-lasting, the sealant may degrade sooner. Over time, the edges of the sealant may loosen. If you notice damaged sealant, reapply it as soon as possible to ensure your roof stays watertight.
- If you notice any damage, like corrosion or holes, it's best to act quickly. While an issue may seem small, if left alone, it can worsen. Small problems are often easy and cheap to fix by patching the area with new aluminium. Extensive damage, on the other hand, may mean you have to replace the flashing entirely.
Final Thoughts on Aluminium Flashing
If you're looking for cost-effective roof flashing product options, aluminium flashing can provide a suitable product that lasts a long time. The material is easy to install and requires relatively little maintenance compared to other materials.
FAQs
How Thick Should Aluminium Flashing Be?
The thickness of aluminium flashing will affect its effectiveness and durability. Thicknesses can range from 0.36 mm to 0.81 mm. The thinner materials are beneficial for flexibility, whereas the thicker ones are more heavy-duty and used on commercial office buildings.
Which is Better, Aluminium or Galvanised Flashing?
Aluminium flashing is generally the better choice when corrosion resistance is important, such as in coastal regions or areas with high humidity. Galvanised flashing, on the other hand, is more suitable for applications when you need strength and durability.