What is Sheet Metal Flashing?

Sheet Metal FlashingWhen you are making repairs or upgrades to the exterior of your home, you may come across sheet metal flashing from time to time. This is a rather critical material that is commonly used on residential and commercial properties alike, but it also is one of the features on a home that is not well understood, according to Sacred Places. With closer inspection, you can learn more about what sheet metal flashing is and why it is so important.

What Is Sheet Metal Flashing?

Flashing is used to describe the material that secures and seals joints in buildings. It may be made out of a wide range of materials, but it is most commonly made out of sheet metal. Flashing is most often used to create a weather-proof barrier along the joints or connections in a building. This includes areas like doors, windows and joints. Commonly, it is associated with keeping water and moisture from penetrating into these areas, but it also can reduce the impact of temperature fluctuations.

Why Is Professional Installation Important?

Sheet metal flashing may seem like an easy enough material to work with and to fasten to the necessary areas around the house. However, there are a few good reasons why professional installation is important. Most importantly, flashing is critical to keeping water and even humidity out of the home. It seals critical areas of the home that are commonly susceptible to leaks. This can minimize repair issues and can reduce the risk of mold growth, wood rot and more. Professional installation is also important in order to improve the energy efficiency of the heating and cooling system in the home.

Related Resource: Dormer Window

You may have been told by a contractor that the flashing on your property requires replacement or repairs. If you need to work on your sheet metal flashing, a smart idea is to set up professional installation for the flashing with a skilled contractor.