Shingles with Raised-Edge Flashing

Installing Flashing

• Flashing is either custom-made from sheet metal or purchased preformed, depending on the style of roof and the type of roofing. The material must be durable, low maintenance and resistant to the same harsh weather conditions that age shingles. In addition, flashing must be adaptable to the expanding and contracting associated with the changing of seasons. For example, wood expands during warm weather, then contracts when temperatures get cooler. Flashing must be able to flex with these changes without cracking or breaking. Adding a raised edge will aid in keeping shingles looking and functioning their best for as long as possible. The installation process requires the aid of a professional for best results.

Asphalt Shingles

• Asphalt shingles are one of the most widely used roofing materials on modern homes, and among the most durable options for flat roofs. They withstand high temperatures, sun and water with little difficulty, and they will do well with the addition of raised-edge flashing. At a price of $50 to $150 per square foot, asphalt shingles are a fairly inexpensive option, and they should last 20 to 30 years. Traditionally, the shingles were manufactured using paper and asphalt, but more modern versions use fiberglass and asphalt, a combination that is much more durable.

Composite

• Composite shingles are made from a combination of plastic, recycled wood and rubber. This is one of the most eco-friendly options on the market, as well as being least expensive. These shingles have a durability and ease of maintenance that are unlike natural wood shingles, and they won’t break, crack or warp like real wood. In addition, they are more resistant to fire than real wood, and they come with a 30- to 50-year lifespan. This extra durability means more resistance to water damage when laid on a flat roof, making the shingles an ideal selection for adding raised-edge flashing.

Materials to Avoid

• Natural wood shingles, generally made from redwood, pine or cedar, carry a high price tag and a somewhat short lifespan of 20 to 30 years. They are more likely to crack, split and warp than those made from more modern materials, particularly when exposed to extended periods of rain. You should avoid using wood shingles on flat roofs, and they are more likely to split or crack with the addition of raised-edge flashing. Ceramic tiles are an ideal option for areas with high temperatures and lots of sun. Their resistance to fire and heat is better than most other products, but cold and rain tends to cause cracking and chipping. A raised-edge flashing is likely to increase these cracks.