Roof Flashing Repair: How to Prevent Leaks Around Chimneys & Skylights

Roofs are like shields—your home or business depends on them every day. But even the best shield can let water slip through the cracks if the flashing isn’t right. Leaks around chimneys, skylights, and vents can sneak in quietly, then cause major chaos.

At Paul & Son Roofing, we know emergency roofing isn’t just about fixing the obvious problems. It’s about protecting what matters most before the rain even starts.

What is Roof Flashing? 🏠

Think of roof flashing as the raincoat for your roof’s most vulnerable spots. It’s usually made of metal—aluminum, galvanized steel, or copper—cut to fit tightly around chimneys, skylights, vents, and where roof planes meet.

Picture the way a scarf wraps your neck, blocking cold air. Flashing wraps those roof features, blocking water from sneaking in at the seams. Without flashing, water would find every little gap and pour right into your attic or ceilings.

Common types of flashing include:

• Step flashing: Pieces layered with shingles beside chimneys or walls.
• Continuous (apron) flashing: A long piece that runs along edges.
• Counter-flashing: Installed over base flashing for extra protection.
• Vent pipe flashing: Specially shaped for round pipes.

The right flashing, installed properly, acts like a moat against leaks.

Common Flashing Issues

Flashing isn’t invincible. Over time, it faces:

• Rust or corrosion: Metal flashing, especially in wet climates, can rust.
• Cracked sealants: Old caulking or roofing cement dries out and splits.
• Loose or missing flashing: Storms, high winds, or age can loosen pieces or pull them off.
• Improper installation: Flashing that’s too short, badly overlapped, or missing nails leaves gaps.

Imagine a zipper with missing teeth. Water will find the path of least resistance—right through those weak spots.

Signs of Flashing Failure

How can you tell if your flashing is in trouble? Look out for:

• Water stains on ceilings or walls.
• Peeling paint near chimneys, skylights, or vents.
• Damp spots or mold in the attic.
• Visible rust, cracks, or gaps on exterior flashing.
• Shingles that are curling or lifting near roof features.

If you see any of these, don’t wait. Small leaks can lead to big headaches—like wood rot, ruined insulation, or even electrical hazards.

Case Example: Chimney Flashing Gone Wrong

One local business owner noticed peeling paint near their fireplace. By the time we arrived, water had already soaked into the wall behind the chimney. The culprit? Cracked and rusted step flashing. After replacing the flashing and applying new sealants and coatings, the leak stopped—and the business avoided costly structural repairs.

DIY Inspection Tips

You don’t need a ladder to spot flashing trouble. Here’s how to check for issues safely:

• Walk around your building after heavy rain. Look for new stains or drips.
• Use binoculars to scan the roof from the ground. Check for bent, missing, or rusty flashing.
• Peek in the attic. A flashlight can help you spot damp insulation or moldy patches.
• Check gutters and downspouts. Overflow or debris can signal roof water isn’t draining right.

Safety reminder: Never climb onto a steep or slippery roof. Professional inspections are always safer, especially after storms.

The Professional Repair Process 🔧

What happens when you call Paul & Son Roofing for a flashing repair? Here’s the step-by-step:

1. Thorough inspection: We examine every inch of flashing, shingles, and sealants—inside and out.
2. Removal of damaged material: Old or rusted flashing is carefully taken out, along with any cracked sealant.
3. Surface prep: We clean and dry the area to ensure new materials will bond.
4. Precision installation: New flashing is cut, shaped, and layered for a watertight fit. We use high-quality sealants and coatings near you that meet or exceed local building codes (see International Building Code Section 1507.2 for reference).
5. Final check: Every seam, edge, and detail is double-checked—because water only needs one crack to get in.

We also offer preventative maintenance: sealing joints, checking adjacent shingles, and inspecting ventilation to keep your roof healthy for years.

Quick Safety Checklist

• Never stand on wet or icy roofs.
• Use a harness if you must inspect a steep roof.
• Make sure ladders are on solid, level ground.
• Wear gloves and boots with good grip.
• Call emergency roofing professionals for anything beyond routine visual checks.

DIY vs. Call a Pro

Some minor flashing fixes—like resealing small cracks with roofing cement—might be possible for an experienced DIYer. But for anything involving:

• Major rust or corrosion
• Damaged or missing flashing
• Leaks inside your home or business
• Steep, high, or complex roofs

…it’s time to bring in a professional with the right tools and safety training.

Remember: insurance claims can be denied if the repairs aren’t done to code. Pros like Paul & Son Roofing use materials and methods that meet ASTM and local building standards.

What Pros Do On Arrival

When our crew arrives, we don’t just patch the leak and go. Here’s what sets a quality repair apart:

• Inspect the whole area: We look for hidden damage under shingles or inside the attic.
• Check adjacent systems: Gutters, downspouts, and attic ventilation all affect roof health.
• Document findings: Photos and notes help you understand the work—important for insurance or future maintenance.
• Advise on next steps: If we spot other risks (like failing insulation or rotten decking), you’ll know exactly what needs attention.

Prevention & Maintenance

You wouldn’t drive a car for years without an oil change. Your roof needs regular checkups, too.

• Annual inspections: Especially before and after storm season.
• Clear gutters and downspouts: Blocked drainage causes water to back up under flashing.
• Trim overhanging trees: Falling branches can dent or pry up flashing.
• Reapply sealants as needed: Some products need refreshing every few years.

Set a reminder for spring and fall—quick checks now can save thousands later.

Costs & Time Factors

Flashing repair isn’t one-size-fits-all. Here’s what affects the cost and timeline:

• Extent of damage: Small cracks are quicker (and cheaper) than full replacements.
• Roof access & pitch: Steep or high roofs require more safety measures.
• Material type: Copper and specialty metals cost more than aluminum.
• Associated repairs: Sometimes, nearby shingles, decking, or insulation also need attention.

Most professional flashing repairs take a few hours to a full day, depending on the scope. Emergency roofing services may cost more for urgent or after-hours calls.

When It’s an Emergency 🚨

Certain situations can’t wait:

• Active leaks during storms.
• Water dripping onto electrical panels or appliances.
• Large sections of flashing torn off by wind.
• Sudden, unexplained increase in indoor humidity or mold.

If you’re facing any of these, call for emergency roofing help immediately. Waiting only leads to bigger, costlier repairs.

FAQ

How long does flashing last?

Most metal flashing lasts 15–30 years, depending on material and maintenance. Regular inspections keep it in top shape.

Can I use caulk or tar to patch flashing leaks?

Short-term, maybe. But these are band-aids, not cures. Proper repairs mean replacing damaged flashing and using code-approved sealants and coatings.

What’s the difference between chimney flashing and skylight flashing?

Both serve the same purpose—keeping water out—but are shaped differently for each roof feature. Skylight flashing often includes special step and apron pieces to direct water away from the glass.

Is flashing covered by insurance?

Most policies cover sudden damage (like storm losses), but may not cover wear-and-tear or neglected maintenance. Check your policy or ask your agent for details.

Local/Seasonal Considerations

If you live in a region with heavy rain, snow, or freeze-thaw cycles, flashing takes a beating. Spring and fall are the best times for inspections—before storms or snow hit. Hailstorms and high winds can loosen even well-installed flashing, so always check after severe weather.

Historic buildings or homes with tile, metal, or specialty roofs may require custom flashing shapes and materials. In these cases, working with experienced professionals is essential to preserve both appearance and protection.

Maintenance Reminders

• Mark your calendar for spring and autumn roof checkups.
• Keep gutters and downspouts clean for proper drainage.
• Watch for signs of leaks after every major storm.
• Don’t ignore small stains or peeling paint—they’re early warnings.

Don’t let flashing failures turn into costly disasters. For fast, reliable emergency roofing and roof flashing repair—whether for your home or business—choose the team that puts your safety and investment first.

Call Paul & Son Roofing now — or reach us anytime at  877-766-7587 .