As a homeowner, you take care of your castle both inside and out. But did you know that water could be penetrating and wreaking havoc on the structural integrity of your roof and house? Right behind where your gutters meet the roofline is a small area where water can trickle back and cause issues. But the good news is that you can do something about it! By installing gutter flashing, you can protect your home and roof from water damage and rot.
What is gutter flashing?
Gutter flashing is a waterproofing tool that is placed just beneath the roof line (also called the fascia) and inside the gutter. Used in conjunction with a drip edge, it prevents water from running behind the gutter and saturating building materials and the infrastructure of the house. Flashing is bent at a 35-degree angle to better divert rainwater into the gutter where it belongs instead of into the fascia, which is the vertical panel that meets the outer walls of the house.
Why would I need gutter flashing?
Without gutter flashing, water can accumulate on the edges of the shingles, wick back toward the house, and seep into the fascia. Over time, this in turn can cause water damage and rot in the structure of your house where the roof and the walls meet. Compared to the cost of replacing damaged fascia and roof shingles, the cost of gutter flashing is negligible.
How can gutter flashing protect my roof?
Damaged or rotten fascia typically spells trouble for the roof. Because the fascia is the point at which the outer wall and the roof meet, it serves a critical purpose for your gutters and roof. If the fascia has water damage and rot, the shingles near the edge of the roof could have them as well. Through the simple act of adding gutter flashing, you shield the edge of the roof and the fascia from the potentially harmful effects of water.
How is gutter flashing installed?
At most lumberyards or home improvement stores, you can find gutter flashing available for sale in ten-foot sections. The flashing should be slipped all the way under the roof shingles, extending over the gutters. Depending on the angle of the gutter slope, you may need a flashing extender strip to make sure no water leaks behind the gutter.
By installing simple gutter flashing, you can protect an important part of your home’s structure in the fascia and roof. Although gutters help control and direct water away from the house, they may not be enough on their own to avoid potential damage. It is worth the time, money, and effort to ensure that your home can serve your family for many years to come.
About the Company
Platinum Gutters is owned and operated by husband-and-wife team Karl and Marjorie Pickens. Dedicated to satisfying each customer and doing a job right, their team works diligently to ensure that your properly installed gutters will help prevent future structural and roofing issues. To contact them, click here.