When a roof starts leaking, most homeowners assume the shingles are to blame. But in many cases, the real issue is something far less visible: the flashing. If you’re noticing water stains, damp patches, or leaks during heavy rain or snow melt, it might be time to take a closer look.
Let’s break down what flashing actually does, why it fails, and how homeowners in Barrie, Newmarket and the surrounding areas can stay ahead of costly damage.
Flashing is the thin metal material installed around areas where water likes to sneak in — think chimneys, skylights, roof valleys, vents, and edges. Its job is to redirect water away from vulnerable spots so it can safely move off the roof.
When flashing is damaged, loose, corroded, or installed poorly, water doesn’t need much of an invitation to get inside.
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Flashing issues rarely start with dramatic drips. But, you will see signs that something isn’t quite right.
If you’re dealing with any of these issues, there’s a good chance you may need flashing roof repair:
Even small issues can escalate quickly, especially with the freeze–thaw cycles we deal with in Ontario.
In places like Barrie, Newmarket and the surrounding areas, flashing takes a beating. Heavy snow loads, rapid temperature shifts, lake-effect storms, and ice buildup all put extra pressure on those metal seams.
The top causes of flashing failure include:
Age and corrosion: Over time, metal flashing naturally wears down. Exposure to moisture, sun, and dramatic temperature swings can cause it to rust, thin out, or develop small gaps that water can easily sneak through.
Wind damage: Strong winds can lift or loosen flashing, creating tiny openings that grow larger after each storm. Even a slight lift is enough to let melting snow or rainwork its way underneath.
Improper installation: If flashing wasn’t installed correctly during a previous repair or roof replacement, it may not be sealed tightly or angled properly. This often leads to leaks around chimneys, vents, skylights, and valleys.
Ice dams: When snow melts and refreezes at the roof’s edge, ice can build up and force water backward under the shingles and flashing. This pressure weakens seals and exposes vulnerable seams.
Shifting structures: Homes settle and shift with time, especially through years of freeze–thaw cycles. Even minor movement can pull flashing away from adjoining surfaces, creating spaces where water can get in.
Once flashing is compromised, water follows the path of least resistance and that usually means it is headed straight into your home.
A flashing leak doesn’t stay small forever. Left alone, it can lead to:
And because flashing leaks often spread behind walls or under shingles, you may not see the full extent of the damage until it becomes expensive.
A proper flashing roof repair involves more than sealing a gap. Depending on the issue, repairs may include:
A reputable roofing company will also check surrounding materials to make sure you’re not dealing with hidden moisture or weakening structure.
To avoid expensive roof flashing repairs and help extend your roof’s lifespan, you need to stay ahead of the issues.
Here are a few simple steps you can take to avoid flashing and roof repairs.
A little prevention goes a long way, especially when you’re dealing with unpredictable Canadian weather in Barrie, Newmarket and the surrounding areas.
If you suspect the leak is coming from flashing, the best move is to get it looked at right away. Flashing work is precise, and a DIY fix often masks the problem instead of solving it.
A professional can diagnose the exact cause, repair the flashing properly, and make sure your home is protected from further damage.
A leaking roof is stressful, but the fix often starts with something as simple as repairing or replacing worn flashing. If you’ve noticed leaks, stains, or moisture around chimneys, vents, or skylights, getting ahead of the issue now can save you from much bigger headaches later.
When you need flashing roof repair in Barrie, Newmarket and the surrounding area, choosing a trusted roofing professional ensures the job is done right, your home stays dry, and your roof continues to perform through every season mother nature throws your way.
