Flashing protects the most vulnerable areas of your roofing system, such as the chimney and any pipes that protrude from your roof. Properly flashed pipes prevent wind-driven rain or any other water source from penetrating your roof, protecting the underlying sheathing from moisture damage.
Here’s how Universal Roofing Exteriors, your trusted GAF Master Elite® contractor, flashes pipes on a steep-slope roof:
Applying Layers of Underlayment
First of all, you need sufficient defense layers covering the substrate in case water manages to seep through the shingles. Before pipe flashing application, a Master Elite roofer will install roof deck protection to catch precipitation.
Next, a leak barrier is installed. GAF requires placing a leak barrier that’s at least 20 square inches around the bottom of the vent pipe to bolster the residential roofing system’s weather protection. We then cut an “x” in the middle, which should be slightly smaller than the pipe to produce a tight seal. Afterward, we remove the film and press the leak barrier firmly to the primary underlayment.
Trimming the Shingle
Next, the shingle is placed at the bottom of the pipe. Once the center of the shingle is below the pipe, the flashing can be installed. Afterward, additional shingles are cut to fit the base. There must be a clearance of a quarter of an inch between the side of the pipe and the shingles to serve as a water channel. Sealant must be applied between the base and the overlaying shingle to prevent water intrusion.
Using No Unnecessary Sealant
Ideally, the flange must be sitting flat and firmly on the shingle to eliminate the need for sealant and minimize long-term roof repair costs. Caulk, roof cement and the like can cause shingle blistering when applied excessively. Also, sealant application is ill-advised when the vent comes with a rubber gasket or is made from plastic.
Let a Master Elite roofer like Universal Roofing and Exteriors handle your roofing project to ensure flawless flashing installation. Call us at (317) 257-0779 to discuss your needs, and get a FREE estimate in Zionsville, Carmel or any neighboring Indiana area.
