Re-anchoring Flashing

About Roof Flashing
Much flashing is hidden beneath shingles, but some of it remains exposed (such as the flashing around a chimney). If you experience a leak at an angled section of roof, it is likely that the flashing has pulled away.

Flashing Problems
Between separate sections of your roof are V-shaped connectors called valley flashing, which you should inspect also. If you see loose flashing anywhere, the temptation may be to nail it back down and forget it, but this solution will be temporary at best. It is better to replace nails with galvanized screws so you’ll get a more permanent fix. Once you have the flashing anchored, cover the screw heads with roofing cement (tar). If your flashing is made of copper, however, you’ll need to use copper screws (or at very least, copper nails) because galvanized metal will cause the copper to corrode in a hurry and you’ll be back on your roof a lot sooner than you’d like.

Any of the flashing on your roof may have problems apart from simple separation; it may have holes that will need to be patched. If you notice lots of holes or any that are large, you may need to contract a roofer to replace the flashing altogether. If holes are few and small, however, you can do it yourself with only a little knowledge. Take a look at our article on mending holes in flashing.

Perhaps you need more help with your roofing questions? Take a hike over to our Roofing forums and ask questions and share tips with other do-it-yourselfers.