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What Apron Flashing Is On A Roof & 3 Things You Should Know

Posted on March 27, 2023

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What Apron Flashing Is On A Roof & 3 Things You Should Know

This blog post is completely dedicated to apron flashing. In this post, we will help you understand what apron flashing is and why you shouldn’t install it on your own. Read on to make a decision that will last you years to come. 

What Is Apron Flashing?

Apron flashing, or otherwise known as base flashing, is essential to a roofing system as it prevents water infiltration and, thus, roof damage. Apron flashing is made of different materials, including aluminum, steel, and rubber. It is installed along the roof at the base of a wall or vertical intersections like chimneys, skylights, and dormers. In addition, the purpose of installing an apron flashing is to direct water away from the roof where it is likely to accumulate water and, subsequently, allow water penetration. While there are other versions of flashing on the market to serve the same purpose, apron flashing is necessary to ensure the secure protection of roofing materials. 

Why Apron Flashing Is Installed On A Roof

Apron flashing is one reliable solution for your roof for all the following reasons: 

1. Water Resistance

One of the reasons why home and business owners install apron flashing on a roof is for water resistance. Apron flashing creates a strong, water-tight seal around the areas where water is most likely to leak through a roof. Since they are made of durable and water-resistant materials, such as aluminum and steel, they make a perfect barrier against water leaks. 

2. Easy Installation

Apron flashing is relatively inexpensive and easier to install than other types of flashing. Therefore, it is popular for both professional and DIY projects. 

Moreover, to equip you with the proper knowledge and expert tips on the installation of this flashing, we’ve curated a step-by-step process on how to install apron flashing later on in this post. 

3. Aesthetics 

Apron flashing is a type of flashing that is available in various colors and styles to match the appearance of your roof. Unlike other types of flashing that may look out of place, apron flashing can blend in seamlessly with your roof. 

Additionally, apron flashing can be made from different materials such as aluminum, steel, vinyl, and rubber, allowing you to choose the material that best suits your roof type. Using apron flashing not only enhances the visual appeal of your roof but also serves as an effective barrier against water leaks.

Where To Install Apron Flashing On A Roof

Apron flashing is installed at any point on a roof where a vertical penetration meets the roof. Below we’ve listed some locations where apron flashing is considered necessary.

1. Chimney

A chimney is a vertical intersection on a roof that allows smoke and other gas from your home caused by combustion, to escape. One common cause of chimney damage is water infiltration through the joint where the chimney meets the roof. To prevent this, apron flashing is installed around the base of the chimney, along with chimney crickets if necessary. The apron flashing creates a barrier that inhibits water infiltration and prevents moisture from seeping through the joints, which can cause damage to the chimney and the roof. By installing apron flashing, you can help protect your chimney and extend its lifespan while maintaining the integrity of your roof.

2. Dormers

The other location on a roof where apron flashing should be installed is at the base where the dormer intersects with the roof. A dormer is a structural element that protrudes from a sloping roof, typically containing a window or other opening to provide additional light and ventilation to the attic or upper floor. To prevent water from seeping into the joint between the dormer and the roof, apron flashing is installed around the base of the dormer. This creates a barrier that directs water away from the joint and protects the underlying roofing materials. 

3. Skylights 

Skylights are windows on the top of a roof that bring natural light and fresh air into the home. The big disadvantage of installing skylights is that they are responsible for water leaks where they meet the roof. In order to prevent water infiltration, apron flashings should be installed along the base of skylights. 

How To Install Apron Flashing

While there can be many ways of installing apron flashing on a roof, here is a general procedure to ensure a proper and secure installation. Let’s start with the basics. 

Apron Flashing installed with a roof wall
Apron Flashing installed with a wall

Materials Needed:

  • Apron flashing
  • Roofing nails
  • Roofing cement or silicone caulk
  • Roofing tape

Tools Needed:

  • Hammer
  • Tin snips
  • Measuring tape
  • Chalk line
  • Roofing knife

Step-By-Step Procedure To Install Apron Flashing: 

1. Measure the length of the area where you want to install the apron flashing. Cut the flashing to size using tin snips.

2. Clean the area where the apron flashing will be installed. Remove any dirt or debris that could interfere with the flashing’s ability to seal properly.

3. Install the apron flashing over the roofing material. Make sure that it overlaps the roofing material by at least 2 inches. If you’re installing the flashing over a shingled roof, you may need to lift up the shingles to install the flashing underneath.

4. Secure the flashing in place using roofing nails. Place nails every 12 inches along the length of the flashing.

5. Apply roofing cement to the edges of the flashing where it meets the roofing material. This will create a watertight seal.

6. Cover the edges of the flashing with roofing tape. This will help to prevent water from seeping underneath the flashing.

Repeat this process for any other areas where apron flashing is needed on a roof.

The Three Things You Need To Know About Apron Flashing

Make sure you consider these three things if you decide you want to install apron flashing on your own. 

A. Importance Of Proper Installation

The quality of apron flashing installation is important to ensure a watertight seal against water and moisture that may seep through. It will be a waste of time and resources if the flashing is installed improperly and it allows water to enter the roof deck and leads to damage. In contrast, proper installation helps the flashing function for a longer period of time, maintaining a proper water barrier. 

B. Maintenance And Repair

Over time, apron flashing can become damaged or worn, which compromises its ability to protect the roof from water damage. Regular maintenance and repair of the flashing can help to extend its lifespan and prevent costly damage to a roof. 

Maintenance includes checking for cracks or gaps in the flashing, replacing damaged sections, and resealing the edges with roofing cement. 

C. DIY vs. Professional Installation

While apron flashing is easy to install for a DIY process, experts still recommend seeking professional assistance to install them. As proper installation is a must to ensure the durability and longevity of the flashing around critical areas like intersections, a DIY installation may leave gaps for water to enter, leading to roof damage. Therefore, you should choose a professional contractor to install the flashing since it can extend the lifespan of both the flashing and the roof.

Also Read: ROOF FLASHING 101: MATERIALS & TYPES OF FLASHING

Hire Professional Roofers To Install Apron Flashing 

Now that you know professional assistance can help you extend the lifespan of your roof materials, including apron flashing, you should only hire trusted roofers to do your job in Tulsa, OK. 

Our team at A. Fricker Roofing & Waterproofing will also ensure the water-tight seal of the apron flashing on your roof, and that it will remain that way for an extended period of time. Along with flashing, we handle other roofing services such as roof repairs and replacements. So, give us a call today if you want to protect your home from water damage, by giving us a call at (918) 402-7167, and consulting with one of our experts.