Hidden Flashing Gaps
Hidden Flashing Gaps | Roof Inspections | Roofing | Morristown
When a Morristown storm slips past your shingles, the damage often starts in the places you can’t see—tiny, hidden gaps in the flashing that channel water straight into your home. HEP’s seasoned team knows every vulnerable angle of a roof, and our comprehensive roof inspections uncover those elusive trouble spots before they become costly leaks or mold blooms. Using thermal imaging, drone technology, and good old-fashioned hands-on expertise, we provide a clear photo report and an easy-to-understand action plan so you stay ahead of expensive surprises.
Homeowners and property managers choose us because we pair meticulous craftsmanship with transparent communication. From the initial scheduling call to the final walkthrough, you’ll know exactly what we found, why it matters, and how we’ll fix it—no jargon, no upsell pressure. If you suspect flashing gaps or simply want peace of mind, trust HEP to deliver the most thorough roof inspections in Morristown and keep your investment watertight for years to come.
FAQs
What are hidden flashing gaps and why are they a concern for Morristown homeowners?
Flashing is the thin sheet metal installed around roof penetrations—chimneys, vent pipes, valleys, and wall intersections—to direct water away from vulnerable seams. "Hidden" flashing gaps are openings that develop beneath shingles or siding where the metal has lifted, corroded, or was never sealed properly. Because they are concealed, you often don’t see leaking until water has already penetrated the roof deck, insulation, or interior walls. Morristown’s mix of heavy spring rains, winter freeze-thaw cycles, and summer heat expansion accelerates wear on flashing, making concealed gaps a top local cause of premature roof failure and interior water damage.
How can a professional roof inspection detect flashing gaps I can’t see from the ground?
Certified inspectors use several techniques: (1) Physical lift tests—gently prying up shingles at critical detail areas to check for loose or corroded flashing. (2) Moisture meters—to identify elevated moisture under decking that points to small leaks. (3) Infrared thermography—heat-sensing cameras highlight cooler, damp zones caused by water intrusion around flashing. (4) Drone or on-roof photography—high-resolution images of valleys, dormers, and wall junctions. Combined, these tools reveal hidden gaps without removing large roof sections, allowing targeted repairs instead of full replacement.
What warning signs suggest my roof may already have flashing gaps?
Look for subtle interior and exterior clues: water stains on upper-floor ceilings or along chimney chases; paint bubbling near skylights; moldy odors in the attic; rust streaks on siding beneath roof-wall intersections; granule accumulation in gutters concentrated near valleys; and ice dams forming early in winter. Any of these can signal moisture entering through small flashing openings long before a major leak becomes visible.
How often should Morristown residents schedule inspections focused on flashing?
For roofs under 10 years old, a full inspection every 2–3 years is usually adequate. Once a roof passes the decade mark—or after severe storms with hail or high winds—annual inspections are recommended. Morristown’s freeze-thaw cycles mean flashing can loosen rapidly; scheduling an inspection each fall allows repairs before winter snow and ice exploit those gaps.
What happens during your hidden flashing gap inspection and how long does it take?
Our technician first performs a ground-level visual assessment, then accesses the roof (or deploys a drone where steep) to examine all flashing points. We lift select shingles, probe sealant, photograph gaps, and scan the attic for moisture. The visit typically lasts 60–90 minutes for an average 2,500-sq-ft home. You receive a digital report within 24 hours that maps every flashing location, notes deficiencies, grades overall roof health, and includes repair recommendations with photos.
If gaps are found, what repair options and costs should I expect?
Minor issues—resealing lifted flashing or inserting new step-flashing shingles—can often be completed the same day for $250–$450. Moderate repairs, such as replacing corroded chimney or valley flashing, range from $600–$1,200 depending on material and access. If widespread failure is discovered, partial roof section replacement could be necessary; we’ll provide a detailed estimate and photos so you can make an informed decision. Early detection almost always keeps costs low and extends the life of your roof.