Flashing might not be something you think about often, but it’s one of the most important parts of your home’s defense against water damage. When installed correctly, flashing helps protect your roof, walls, and foundation by keeping water out of the places it’s not supposed to be.
Let’s break down what flashing is, why it matters, and how to tell when there’s a problem.
Flashing is a thin, durable material installed anywhere two surfaces of your home meet—like where the roof joins a wall, or around a chimney, vent, or skylight. Its job is simple but important: it redirects water away from seams and joints that would otherwise be vulnerable to leaks.
Water is sneaky. Even a small gap can let moisture in, and once it does, it can lead to:
Flashing creates a watertight seal in the places most likely to be exposed. It’s a small detail with big impact—and when it’s not doing its job, the damage can be expensive to fix.
Most common places you’ll see flashing
Flashing is most common around:
If you’ve ever seen metal tucked under shingles or poking out near a vent pipe, that’s flashing. In most cases, you don’t need to see all of it—just know it’s there, sealed and layered properly to direct water downhill and off the roof.
Flashing comes in different materials depending on where it’s used and what your home is built with. Some of the most common include:
The material choice matters, but good installation matters even more. Even high-quality flashing won’t work if it’s bent wrong, installed backward, or left unsealed.
Most flashing issues are hard to see from the ground, but there are some signs homeowners can look for—especially after a storm or during seasonal maintenance.
Over 90% of roof leaks occur at flashing areas.
Sometimes, the damage is subtle until it becomes a bigger problem. That’s why many issues are caught during home inspections—before they turn into a major repair.
Even properly installed materials don’t last forever. Here’s what tends to go wrong:
Routine inspections help catch these issues before they cause real damage. It might not need frequent attention, but it does need to be checked—especially after major weather events or before selling a home.
Flashing works best when everything around it is in good shape. Here are a few simple things homeowners can do to help:
A quick visual check once or twice a yea, especially after storms, can help you spot early warning signs of flashing issues.
If you notice water stains, moldy smells, or any signs of leaks, it’s time to bring in a professional. Flashing repair or replacement isn’t a DIY job. It often involves climbing on the roof, removing materials, and resealing the area correctly.
A certified home inspector can:
Whether you’re buying a home or maintaining one, having an expert take a closer look gives you a clearer picture of what’s going on—and how to stay ahead of costly damage.
Flashing may be out of sight, but it should never be out of mind. It plays a key role in keeping water where it belongs—outside. When it fails, water damage follows.
Not sure if your home’s flashing is doing its job? Schedule a professional inspection with Avalon Home Inspections. We’ll take a close look at all the spots that matter most and help you catch potential issues before they turn into costly repairs.