What Is Roof Flashing? Purpose, Installation & More

Jan 27, 2023 | Blog

When you’re in the market for a roof replacement or a fresh roof installation on a new construction build, you’ll probably start to hear a lot of terms you may be unfamiliar with. One of them is “flashing.”

No, there aren’t any flashing lights required in your roof replacement, but there is metal flashing! Roof flashing is actually an incredibly vital part of a protective roofing system. So, what is roof flashing exactly? And where does it need to get installed? Let’s take a closer look.

WHAT IS ROOF FLASHING?

Roof flashing is a thin, flat piece of metal used to help waterproof certain areas on a roof. It is typically installed at the intersection of two roofing sections and around any roof protrusions to mitigate roof leaks. The installation placement is over the top of the underlayment (ice and water shield) but underneath the shingles. On metal roofs, flashing can be installed on top of the panels.

Flashing plays a vital role in protecting your home from water leaks. It works in tandem with the other aspects of a complete roofing system, such as:

• Decking
• Underlayment
• The outer layer of shingles

There are a few different types of metal that can be used for roof flashing.

• Steel: Steel, or galvanized steel, is commonly used for roof flashing. It typically has a zinc coating to protect against corrosion, which allows it to last even when exposed to moisture.
• Copper: If you want to make a statement with your roof, consider copper flashing. It’s the most durable and eye-catching (but also the most expensive) material. Keep in mind that it will form a green patina over time.
• Aluminum: Aluminum is an inexpensive flashing material that still has impressive durability. Since it’s malleable, it’s a good option for more complicated corners on your roof. It requires a protective coating to resist corrosion.
• Lead: As another incredibly durable metal, many homeowners prefer this option. Lead flashing can last for hundreds of years since it’s resistant to water damage!

5 TYPES OF ROOF FLASHING

When roof flashing gets installed by a professional roofing contractor, it should be installed in many different areas that are vulnerable to leaks. There are a few types of roof flashing based on where they get installed on your roof.

1) VALLEY FLASHING

Roof valleys are the areas where two roof decks slope towards each other and connect. This creates a low line that looks like a valley out in nature. Roof valleys are a popular place for water to hit and collect.

Metal valley flashing gets installed over the underlayment and under the edges of the shingles. In these valleys, the shingles don’t overlap but instead form a thin gap that exposes the flashing. This helps the water to run down to the gutters and away from your roof.

2) BASE AND STEP FLASHING

Flashing is needed where the vertical walls of the house intersect the surface of the roof deck. The solution here is base and step flashing.

• Base flashing gets installed along the front walls. It gets installed underneath the siding and shingles but over the underlayment.
• Step flashing is used where the roof meets a side wall. Pieces get bent at an angle to match the roof pitch, and it is installed along the full length of the side wall. Step flashing is visible, so you can opt for a particular color to match your roofing material.

3) CHIMNEY FLASHING

If you have a chimney, it’s, unfortunately, a hot spot for roof leaks. Chimney flashing is the best way to create a water-tight seal around the area. Other roof penetrations like vents and dormers will also need waterproof flashing.

4) SKYLIGHT FLASHING

Skylights are a wonderful feature to have, but they’re also another spot that’s prone to water leaks without the proper installation protocols. Without skylight flashing, your skylight can quickly cause a myriad of issues, such as:

• Roof rot
• Mold
• Water seepage
• Structural damage

5) DRIP EDGE FLASHING

We can’t forget about drip edge flashing! The drip edge is vital at the edges of your roof in order to direct water into your gutters and away from your roofing materials. This also helps prevent ice dams in winter.

Intense wind can lift shingles at the edges of your roof, so drip edge flashing is the next line of defense when this occurs.

DAMAGED FLASHING OR TIME FOR A ROOF REPLACEMENT? CALL MARS!

If you’re due for a total roof replacement soon, or if you need a flashing repair, trust a local, professional roofing company like Mars Restoration. With our detailed inspections, we’ll be able to pinpoint any flashing damage and create a clear description of the recommended repairs.

Call Mars today to schedule a free roof inspection!

Roofing Underlayment: Everything A Homeowner Needs To Know

Jan 22, 2023 | Blog

Have you ever needed a backup plan? It’s always wise to cover your bases in case your first plan falls through.

Our roofs also have backup plans in the form of underlayment. If for any reason, the shingles or other roofing materials get damaged, roofing underlayment is an extra line of defense against water damage.

Let’s take a look at:

• What is roof underlayment?
• The differences between the types of underlayment

WHAT IS ROOF UNDERLAYMENT?

Roofing underlayment is the material between the shingles and the plywood roof deck. It gets installed directly on top of the roof deck in order to provide an additional layer of protection against:

• Snow ❄️
• Rain 🌧️
• Wind 🌬️
• Extreme heat 🥵

Underlayment should get installed across the entire surface of your roof decking. Additionally, it’s recommended for a waterproof underlayment to be added in the following areas that are prone to water collection and ice dams:

• Valleys
• Eaves
• Chimneys
• Vent pipes
• Skylights

Roof underlayment is an incredibly important component of a complete roofing system that helps keep your home dry. Trust us; you don’t want water damage in your home. It’s an expensive and tedious issue to fix, so always opt to stop the problem at the source by opting for a professional roof installation.

THE 3 MAIN TYPES OF ROOF UNDERLAYMENT

You have options when it comes to choosing the type of underlayment you want for your roof. Historically, roofing felt has been the most popular choice for underlayment, but in recent years, synthetic and rubberized asphalt underlayments have been been on the come up.

Let’s take a closer look at the pros and cons of all three options.

1) FELT UNDERLAYMENT

Felt roofing underlayment is made by saturating a fiberglass mat with asphalt. It’s one of the oldest and most commonly used types of underlayment in the industry. You can find roofing felt in No. 15 felt or No. 30 felt, with No. 30 being the stronger and thicker option.

✅ Felt Underlayment Pros

• Affordable cost
• Easily accessible
• Easy to install

❌ Felt Underlayment Cons

• More prone to tearing
• Weighs more
• Can wrinkle if exposed to moisture
• Less material per roll, leading to more seams

2) SYNTHETIC UNDERLAYMENT

Even though roofing felt has been the go-to choice for many years, there’s a newer product that’s been in the spotlight lately. Synthetic underlayment is made from durable polymers that are actually melted-down recyclable materials. It’s now the preferred underlayment type of most modern roofing contractors.

Different roofing manufacturers usually make their synthetic materials different from one another, so be sure to do your research on the most high-performing brand.

✅ Synthetic Underlayment Pros

• More durable than felt
• Quick and safe to install
• Repels water effectively
• Can handle UV exposure during the installation process
• Lightweight
• Resistant to mold growth
• Easy for roofers to walk on during installation

❌ Synthetic Underlayment Cons

• Higher upfront cost

3) RUBBERIZED ASPHALT UNDERLAYMENT

Rubberized asphalt roofing underlayment is made from— you guessed it— rubber and asphalt. Rubberized asphalt is a peel-and-stick material like the other types of underlayments. The sticky, rubbery material allows it to form around nails and staples without causing punctures.

✅ Rubberized Asphalt Underlayment Pros

• Only fully waterproof underlayment
• Easy to install
• Lasts up to 50 years
• Resistant to UV rays
• Easy to repair
• Won’t wear down when roofers walk on it
• Excellent for humid regions and areas with intense winters

❌ Rubberized Asphalt Underlayment Cons

• Highest upfront cost of the three options
• Not all brands are fire-resistant

HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT UNDERLAYMENT FOR YOUR ROOF

Any of these three options will help keep your roof protected against water damage. However, you can decide which underlayment you want based on your:

• Climate
• Roofing material
• Budget

For example, metal roofs can trap more heat, so they do best with synthetic underlayment. If you live in a temperate, mild climate, felt underlayment will serve you well. But if you live in a particularly humid region, you may opt for the extra waterproofing that comes with rubberized asphalt.

Ultimately, have a conversation with your roofing contractor. Feel free to ask them about the options you have and what they recommend. Some roofing companies may have exclusive partnerships with certain manufacturers, while others can install any manufacturer of your choosing. When it comes to an investment as significant as your roof, you deserve to be informed and educated!

GET A TOTAL ROOFING SYSTEM YOU CAN COUNT ON

It’s clear that roofing underlayment is an incredibly vital aspect of a functioning roofing system. To ensure you get a high-quality roofing system when you replace your roof, opt to hire a professional roofing company with many years of experience.

Here at Mars Restoration, we work with the best manufacturers in the roofing industry, and we take the time to educate you on all your options so that you can make an informed decision about your home and finances.

Reach out to Mars today for a free inspection!

What Is The Ridge Of A Roof? Breakdown For Homeowners

Jan 20, 2023 | Blog

Did you ever take an anatomy class in school? We’re going to wager to guess that you probably didn’t learn about the anatomy of a roof.

You’re definitely familiar with the shingles on the roof, but what about the special layer of shingles called the roof ridge or ridge cap?

Let’s take a closer look at this lesser-known component of your roof system.

WHAT IS THE ROOF RIDGE?

Simply put, the roof ridge is the horizontal line that runs the length of the roof where the two planes meet on the top. It’s the pointed intersection at the highest point of the roof, and it sometimes gets referred to as the peak. Roof ridges only exist on pitched roofs, not flat roofs.

The ridge cap is the layer of shingles that gets installed on the top of the ridge. These shingles overlap the materials on either side of the ridge.

WHAT ABOUT RIDGE VENTS?

Your attic ventilation system is incredibly important, and almost all of the necessary vents should be installed on your roof. Without the proper attic ventilation, you can run into issues such as:

• Ice dams
• Mold growth
• Increased energy bills
• Unpleasant temperatures inside your home

Ridge vents are very popular and are installed on just about every sloped roof. They run the entire length of your roof ridge but aren’t visible from the ground.

There are two types of ridge vents: active and passive. The type installed on your roof depends on the rest of your attic ventilation system.

• Active ridge vents have a baffle (a chute that provides a channel for airflow in the attic). These vents pull fresh air from outside and push the air through the attic. The system works to ensure air is constantly moving, whether or not there’s wind.
• Passive ridge vents don’t have a baffle. Passive ventilation works by letting the air in the attic move around through natural sources like wind.

Both vents will get the job done, but passive vents without a baffle can allow debris, pests, and rain to enter your attic. Because of this, most homeowners opt for an active ventilation system.

When getting a new roof, a professional roofing contractor will follow these steps to install a ridge vent:

• Cut an air slot in the roof’s peak
• Install the ridge vent over the air slot
• Install ridge cap shingles over the vent

Keep in mind that for every 300 square feet of ceiling space in your home, you’ll need at least one square foot of attic ventilation. Ridge vents are intake vents, so they pull air into the attic. Then, the air must be pushed back out of the attic through exhaust vents.

WHAT IS THE PURPOSE OF RIDGE CAPPING?

As we mentioned, the ridge cap is the layer of shingles that goes over the roof ridge. But why does this part need special shingles?

Ridge cap shingles are a vital component for shedding water down to your gutters and out through your downspouts. Ridge cap shingles are specially made to be thicker than normal shingles and pre-bent so that they can form nicely to the ridge.

Properly installing a ridge cap with the correct materials helps prevent roof leaks. Using “regular” shingles as the ridge cap can quickly lead to issues.

If you’re getting a new roof replacement, you can ask the roofing contractor if they plan to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for the ridge cap. Reputable, professional roofing companies will always do so, but local handymen from down the street may look to cut costs wherever possible.

MARS KNOWS ALL THE DETAILS, SO YOU DON’T HAVE TO

While it’s highly recommended that homeowners get to know the different parts of their roofing system, it can be a little confusing if you’re not a trained professional. We hope this article helped you learn more about the ridge of your roof and the necessary ventilation.

Whether you need a new asphalt shingle roof or want to add more attic ventilation to make your home more energy efficient, reach out to the knowledgeable team at Mars Restoration! Our team pays close attention to detail throughout every step of the roofing process. With 30 years of experience, you can feel confident leaving your roof in our hands.

Reach out to Mars today for a free consultation!

What Is The Valley Of A Roof? (Homeowner’s Guide)

Jan 16, 2023 | Blog

When you think of the word “valley,” you’re probably envisioning green hills flanked on either side by mountains. We’re willing to be that you aren’t necessarily thinking about your roof.

So, we know what you’re thinking. What on earth is a roof valley?

While roofers know that most roofs are made up of a combination of unique features that require special care and attention, most homeowners are unaware. This can lead to improper maintenance and damage down the road.

Today we’ll be breaking down everything you need to know about your roof valleys, from what they are and how to maintain them.

WHAT IS A ROOF VALLEY?

A roof valley is a common architectural feature in many homes. Roof valleys are created when two sloped roofs meet at an angle. This allows water to easily run off the roof instead of getting stuck and pooling, leading to eventual water damage.

Roof valleys also guard against snow and debris like leaves collecting on your roof. These things can block water flow and create problems further down the line.

Valleys are not only functional but also beautiful. They create more character for a home than a standard roof does.

3 TYPES OF ROOF VALLEYS

When it comes to roof valleys, there are three main types the roofers build.

1.) CLOSED ROOF VALLEY

A closed roof valley is a popular choice that many homeowners prefer. Not only do closed valleys help you achieve that aesthetic look that many want, but it also is a fairly affordable option.

Closed roof valleys are protected by an ice and water shield used for the underlayment. This acts as a water shield for your roof deck. After the underlayment is installed, shingles are installed to create a closed valley.

2.) OPEN ROOF VALLEY

If you are serious about protecting your home, an open roof valley might be the right choice for you. Open valleys are particularly durable, as they have metal flashing installed on top of the underlayment in order to provide an extra layer of protection.

3.) WOVEN ROOF VALLEY

Woven valleys are similar to closed valleys in the sense that they have the underlayment installed underneath. Where they differ is the shingle installation. In a woven valley, the shingles are installed in such a way that they change the direction of the roof slopes. This allows homeowners to direct the water off the roof in the way they want.

Woven roof valleys are popular with homeowners because they are a very budget-friendly solution.

WAYS TO TAKE CARE OF YOUR ROOF VALLEY

Now that you know the importance of your roof valley, you’ll also understand the importance of caring for it properly! Here are 4 tips to make sure that your roofing system is working efficiently and safely.

1) GET A ROOF INSPECTION

The number one thing homeowners can do to ensure that their roof is up to snuff is to get a professional roof inspection. Roofing contractors will be able to assess your roof for any problem areas and give you advice on how to maintain it and what to watch out for. A proper roof inspection will help you have peace of mind.

2.) MAKE SURE YOU HAVE THE RIGHT MATERIALS

Different climates create different tolls on your roof. While one form of roof valley may be an effective way to protect against rain and snow in one climate, it might not cut it in another. Consulting with a roofing contractor will help ensure that your roof is ready to handle whatever weather is thrown at it. When you have the right roofing materials, you can rest easy, knowing your home is covered.

3.) REMOVE DEBRIS

While valleys are designed to avoid causing debris build-up, they aren’t perfect. Cleaning debris from leaves, twigs, and other items will help you keep your roofing system functioning properly.

4.) DO A SELF-CHECK

Regular checks on your roof can help you catch any problems before they arise. Be sure to check for loose or blown-off tiles, moss growth, or soft, spongy parts of the roof.

CONSULT WITH A PRO

Want to make sure your roof valleys are functioning optimally? Reach out to your local roofing pros at MARS Roofing. Whether you are looking for a roof installation or simply some minor repairs, we can help. Contact us today to set up your free roof inspection!

What Is The Saddle Of A Roof? [Pictures]

Jan 12, 2023 | Blog

Most of us don’t think much about our chimneys, unless we’re lighting a cozy fire on a winter’s night. But the truth is that a chimney is one of the most vulnerable parts of your roof.

It might be time to check out your chimney if you’ve been dealing with persistent roof problems, including:

• Roof leaks
• Water stains on your ceilings and walls
• A drafty attic

More specifically, it’s time to check on the roof saddle.

Have you never heard of a roof saddle before? You’re not alone. This vital element of your roof is virtually unknown to many homeowners. No need to worry, though, because we have you covered. Keep reading to find out all you need to know about roof saddles.

WHY DOES YOUR HOUSE HAVE A ROOF SADDLE?

So, what exactly is a roof saddle? Also known as a roof cricket, a roof saddle is a type of customized chimney flashing that is designed to divert water away from your chimney. Like standard chimney flashing, it helps to keep water from entering your chimney by creating a waterproof seal. It differs, however, by also changing the path that the water is flowing.

It should not be confused with a saddle roof or a gable roof, which are specific roof designs, and very different than a roof saddle itself.

HOW MUCH DOES A ROOF SADDLE COST?

Installation of your roof cricket typically costs between $3000-$6000, depending on the size of your chimney and the roof materials. It’s always good to budget on the higher end in order to avoid being shocked by the final price.

Prices may also go up depending on the state of your existing roof. If a repair is needed before installing your roof cricket, you can expect to pay a bit more.

HOW IS A ROOF SADDLE BUILT?

Wondering how to add a roof cricket to your new roof? Follow this step-by-step process for a smooth installation.

1.) REMOVE SHINGLES

Before you install your roof cricket, you need to prep your space. This means clearing the roof area around the chimney. You will need to remove the various layers of the roof around the chimney. This means taking off the shingles and underlayment until only the decking is visible.

2.) BUILD FRAME

The next step is to build the frame for your roof saddle. If you are DIY-ing this project, it is important that you check what the building codes are, in regards to the height and slope of your roof cricket.

You can build the frame out of 2 by 4s, and attach it with framing nails.

3.) ADD SUPPORT

Don’t forget to add support beams to your frame! These should also be made of 2 by 4s that lay flat against the chimney facing. It’s important to make sure that they extend the full length of the chimney so that water is properly diverted.

4.) ADD DECKING

Once your frame is complete, it is time to add decking or sheathing to cover the exterior of your frame. Most people choose to use plywood as it is affordable and effective. It’s important to ensure that the boards are cut properly, and that there are no gaps that water can get through.

5.) ADD UNDERLAYMENT

Adding underlayment is an important step that will ensure that your roof cricket is protected from weather conditions like water and ice. Most homeowners choose to use felt for their underlayment, but you can also purchase a specific ice-and-water shield to protect your home.

6.) ADD SHINGLES

It’s now time to finish off your roof saddle! This is the step where you’ll either want to add metal flashing or shingles to your cricket. This will help the saddle blend in with the rest of your roof and also add an extra layer of protection against water and ice.

CONTACT A PROFESSIONAL

Not sure you’re up to the task of installing your own roof saddle? Let our team of trusted professionals handle it for you! At MARS Roofing, we are experts at all things roofing related, and would be happy to assist you with all of your roofing repair needs. Contact us today to set up your free roof inspection and get started!