Loose Flashing
Loose Flashing | Roof Inspections | Roofing | Harriman
Keeping your Harriman home watertight starts at the seams—literally. When flashing around chimneys, vents, and roof edges works loose, wind-driven rain can slip underneath shingles and wreak havoc on insulation, drywall, and framing. HEP’s seasoned technicians zero in on these vulnerable points, quickly re-securing metal strips, replacing corroded sections, and sealing gaps before hidden leaks turn into costly structural repairs.
Our comprehensive roof inspections combine infrared moisture scans with up-close visual checks, giving you a clear picture of your roof’s overall health and the specific condition of its flashing. You’ll receive a concise digital report, photos included, plus honest recommendations you can trust—no scare tactics, just straight talk from a local team that’s protected Harriman roofs for decades. Schedule today, and let HEP make sure the next storm stays outside where it belongs.
FAQs
What is loose flashing and why is it a concern for my roof in Harriman?
Flashing is the thin metal (usually aluminum, galvanized steel, or copper) that seals joints and transitions on a roof—around chimneys, skylights, vents, walls, and valleys. When flashing becomes loose, wind-driven rain and melting snow can infiltrate under your shingles and into your decking, insulation, and interior ceilings. Harriman’s freeze-thaw cycles and occasional wind gusts accelerate the loosening process, making timely inspection and repair critical to prevent water damage and mold growth.
How can I tell if my roof flashing is loose or damaged?
From the ground you may notice rust streaks, lifting shingle edges near roof penetrations, or water stains on interior ceilings and walls. A closer look (best left to a professional) may reveal gaps between flashing and the roof surface, missing sealant, warped metal, or nails that have backed out. Because flashing issues often hide beneath shingles, a thorough inspection by a qualified roofer is the safest way to confirm the problem.
What does a professional roof inspection for loose flashing involve?
Our Harriman inspection begins with a visual survey from multiple angles using binoculars or a drone, followed by a hands-on walk-through if the roof is safely accessible. We check all flashing points—chimneys, dormers, step flashing along walls, drip edges, valley metal, and pipe boots—for secure fastening, intact sealant, corrosion, and proper overlap. Moisture meters are used in suspect areas to detect hidden leaks. The inspection concludes with a written report, photos, and recommended repair options.
How often should I schedule flashing inspections for my Harriman home?
We recommend a full roof inspection at least once every two years, and annually if your roof is over 15 years old, has been exposed to major storms, or has complex rooflines with multiple penetrations. Harriman’s winter snow loads and summer thunderstorms can loosen flashing faster than in milder climates, so periodic professional checks help you catch minor issues before they become expensive repairs.
Can loose flashing cause leaks even if my shingles look fine?
Yes. Shingles primarily shed surface water, but flashing is what seals vulnerable joints. Even perfectly intact shingles cannot stop water that slips under their edges through a flashing gap. Many leaks we find in Harriman start at chimney or wall step flashing while the surrounding shingles appear undamaged. Addressing flashing problems quickly prevents rot and interior water stains that shingles alone cannot stop.
What are the repair options and costs if loose flashing is found during inspection?
Minor issues, such as resecuring a few feet of step flashing or resealing nail heads, typically cost between $150 and $400. Replacing corroded chimney flashing can run $400–$900, depending on chimney size and materials (copper costs more than aluminum). If flashing failure has caused decking rot, partial roof removal, wood replacement, and new underlayment may raise the cost to $1,500 or more. After your inspection, we provide a detailed estimate and explain material choices, warranty coverage, and preventive maintenance tips to extend the life of the repair.