All types of flashing
lashing is a crucial component in building construction and waterproofing. It serves to prevent water penetration and protect vulnerable areas of a structure from moisture damage. Flashing is typically made from various materials, including metal (such as aluminum, copper, or galvanized steel), rubber, or synthetic materials like PVC or bitumen. Here are some common types of flashing and their fabrication methods:
1. Step Flashing:
- Fabrication: Step flashing is typically fabricated from metal, such as aluminum or galvanized steel. It is custom-cut into L-shaped pieces with one leg bent at a 90-degree angle. These pieces are then installed step by step, following the contours of the roof and wall intersections.
2. Counter Flashing:
- Fabrication: Counter flashing is also typically made of metal. It is custom-fabricated to fit over the top of base flashing. The design depends on the specific application and can involve bending and cutting the metal to fit the dimensions required.
3. Base Flashing:
- Fabrication: Base flashing is commonly made of metal or rubberized materials. It is fabricated into strips or sheets that are cut and shaped to fit around roof penetrations, such as chimneys, vents, or skylights. The fabrication process may involve cutting, folding, and sealing joints to ensure water-tightness.
4. Roof Valley Flashing:
- Fabrication: Roof valley flashing is usually made of metal, often in the form of pre-formed valley pans. These pans are shaped and sized to fit specific roof configurations, and they are typically manufactured off-site and installed as a single piece.
5. Drip Edge Flashing:
- Fabrication: Drip edge flashing is commonly made of metal, such as aluminum or galvanized steel. It is manufactured in standard lengths and profiles, with pre-bent angles to facilitate water runoff. The fabrication process involves cutting and bending the metal into the desired shape.
6. Z-Flashing:
- Fabrication: Z-flashing is made from metal and is fabricated into a "Z" shape. This type of flashing is used around horizontal surfaces, such as the top of window and door openings. The metal is cut and bent to create the Z profile.
7. Window and Door Flashing:
- Fabrication: Flashing for windows and doors is typically fabricated from self-adhesive or peel-and-stick materials. These materials come in rolls or sheets, and the flashing is cut to the desired lengths and shapes during installation. It is adhered to the window or door openings.
8. Through-Wall Flashing:
- Fabrication: Through-wall flashing is commonly made of metal or synthetic materials. It is fabricated in sheets or rolls and cut to fit the width of the wall. Specialized fabrication may be required to create end dams and crickets for diverting water.
9. Ridge Flashing:
- Fabrication: Ridge flashing is typically made of metal and is custom-fabricated to fit the ridgeline of a roof. It may involve bending and cutting metal to the necessary dimensions.
