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Key Takeaways
- If you spot rust, cracks, missing sections, or water stains, don’t wait—catching flashing issues early can save you hundreds.
- Small repairs? Grab your tools. Steep or complex roof? Leave it to the pros.
- Flashing repair costs depend on material, labor, and damage—but expect anywhere from $200 to $500 for typical fixes.
- Need a flashing fix done right? Our team at Apex Restoration & Roofing has your back!
How to Fix Roof Flashing Issues (& What It Costs)
Roof flashing is one of the most important—but often overlooked—parts of a roofing system. It directs water away from vulnerable areas like chimneys, skylights, vents, and valleys. But when your flashing is damaged or improperly installed, it’ll cause costly leaks, mold growth, and even structural decay.
So, how do you fix damaged flashing? And how much does it cost? In this guide, we’ll break down the best repair methods, when to DIY vs. hire a pro, and how much you can expect to pay.
Plus, we’ll share maintenance tips to keep your flashing in top shape for years to come.
| Apex Restoration & Roofing: Your Roofing Specialists in Colorado Located in Englewood, Colorado, Apex Restoration & Roofing offers expert residential and commercial roofing services. With over 27 years of experience, we specialize in roof replacements, repairs, and storm damage restoration, using only the highest quality materials. Our A+ BBB rating and a 5-star rating on Google from satisfied customers ensure your project meets the highest standards of quality and satisfaction. See the Apex difference today! |
What is Roof Flashing & Why It Matters?
Roof flashing is a thin, weather-resistant material (usually metal) installed around chimneys, vents, skylights, and other roof joints to keep leaks out and your home safe.
Without flashing, your roof wouldn’t stand a chance against water damage. Over time, leaks can cause rot, mold, insulation issues, and some seriously expensive repairs—and you don’t want to deal with that.
Types of Roof Flashing & Where You’ll Find It
| Flashing Type | Where It’s Used | Common Material |
| Step Flashing | Where your roof meets a wall | Aluminum, galvanized steel |
| Counter Flashing | Chimneys and brick walls | Copper, stainless steel |
| Drip Edge Flashing | Roof edges and gutters | Aluminum, PVC |
| Vent Pipe Flashing | Around pipes and vents | Rubber, metal |
| Skylight Flashing | Skylight edges | Aluminum, custom kits |
Signs of Flashing Damage & When to Act
Common Signs Your Flashing Needs Help
- Rust or Corrosion: If your metal flashing looks rusty or feels brittle, it’s wearing out. Time for a fix.
- Cracks or Gaps: Flashing can split or crack from heat, cold, and storms. Even tiny cracks let water in!
- Loose or Missing Flashing: Storm winds and poor installation can cause flashing to shift—or disappear completely.
- Water Stains Inside: Brown or yellow spots on your ceiling? That’s flashing damage letting water sneak in.
- Mold or Mildew Growth: Flashing failure = trapped moisture = hello, mold (and that’s never a good thing).
DIY Roof Flashing Repair: Step-by-Step Guide
Tools & Materials You’ll Need
- Measuring tape
- Hammer + roofing nails
- Putty knife + utility knife
- Roofing cement or sealant
- Safety gear (gloves, glasses, harness—stay safe!)
- Metal flashing (make sure it matches your existing material)
Step-by-Step Fix: Let’s Get to Work!
- Check for Damage: Look for rust, cracks, or loose flashing—these are your trouble spots.
- Remove Old Flashing: Carefully pry up damaged sections with a utility knife.
- Clean the Area: Brush off debris and ensure a solid, clean surface for a secure fit.
- Cut & Install New Flashing: Measure twice, cut once, and nail it down securely.
- Seal the Edges: Apply roofing cement around the seams to keep water out.
- Inspect & Test: Give it a final check—no gaps, no loose edges, no leaks.
💡 If the damage is near a chimney or a steep section of your roof—don’t risk it. Call a pro.
When to Hire a Professional & What to Expect
When to Call a Roofer
- Your flashing’s missing, severely rusted, or bent
- Your roof has complex angles or steep slopes
- Water is actively leaking inside your home
- Your previous DIY fixes didn’t work
What Professionals Do Differently
| DIY Fix | Professional Repair |
| Basic patching and sealing | Full flashing replacement |
| Store-bought materials | High-quality commercial-grade flashing |
| Risk of incorrect installation | Code-compliant, watertight installation |
| No warranty | Often includes a work guarantee |
Cost Breakdown: Roof Flashing Repair Pricing
What Affects the Cost of Flashing Repair
- Roof Complexity: Steeper or multi-level roofs need more labor and safety precautions.
- Extent of Damage: A minor crack? Cheaper. Water damage that needs structural fixes? That’s extra.
- Chimneys & Skylights: Flashing repairs around these areas can be trickier and pricier due to accessibility.
- Flashing Type & Material: Aluminum is budget-friendly, while copper costs more but lasts longer.
- Labor & Permits: Roofing contractor rates vary by region, and some repairs require permits.
- Inspection & Cleanup: Not all roofers include a free inspection (we do, though!), and post-repair cleanup can add to the total bill.
Cost of Materials & Labor
- Professional Labor: $1.50 – $4.50 per sq ft.
- Flashing Materials: Usually ranges between $15 and $25 per linear foot.
- Permit Costs (if required): $100 – $500 (the price depends on your location).
- For most standard roof flashing repairs, expect to pay around $200 – $500.
- For more complex areas like chimneys and skylights, costs can climb even higher.
💡 Labor makes up 40-60% of your total cost. Hiring an experienced roofer makes sure the job gets done right the first time (and saves you money in the long run).
How to Keep Your Roof Flashing in Top Shape
Roof Flashing Maintenance Tips
- Check your flashing twice a year (spring and fall) for cracks, rust, or gaps—catching issues early saves money.
- Keep those gutters clean! Clogged gutters cause water buildup, which can wreak havoc on flashing.
- Trim overhanging branches to prevent falling debris from damaging flashing and your roof.
- Seal the deal—apply a fresh coat of roofing sealant every 3-5 years to keep flashing watertight.
💡 After heavy storms or extreme weather, do a quick visual check—spotting damage early can save you thousands in repairs!
Stronger Flashing, Stronger Roof
Your flashing keeps leaks, rot, and water damage out of your home—where they belong. No matter if you’re handling a quick fix or calling in a pro, acting fast is what keeps small issues from turning into big, expensive headaches.
A little maintenance goes a long way. Investing in quality materials and regular roof checkups can save you thousands in repairs down the road. Your roof—and wallet—will thank you!
Flashing damage won’t fix itself, and waiting too long can mean bigger (and more expensive) roof problems. Need a fast, expert repair? At Apex Restoration & Roofing, we’ve got you!
“I worked with Jacob of Apex Roofing, and I could not have had a better experience. Our roof was destroyed in last year’s hail storm, and the insurance company was fighting us on repair vs. replacement. Jacob did all the negotiating with the insurance company and got us a new tile roof. Not only did he do all the work, but he saved us 1000’s of dollars as well. I couldn’t be happier with the work they did and with the way Jacob handles our contract.” – Matt S.
From minor fixes to full flashing replacements, our team gets the job done right the first time. Call us now at (303) 691-5035 or request a free quote online—let’s get your roof back in top shape today!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are common signs that roof flashing needs repair?
Signs of damaged roof flashing include rust, cracks, gaps, loose or missing sections, water stains on ceilings or walls, and mold or mildew near the roofline. Addressing these issues early prevents expensive water damage and structural repairs later.
How much does it usually cost to repair or replace roof flashing?
Flashing repair costs depend on a lot of factors like material type, labor rates, and damage. Standard repairs range from $200 to $500. More complex fixes (think chimney or skylight flashing replacement) can cost more.
Can I repair roof flashing myself, or should I hire a professional?
You can DIY small repairs like sealing minor cracks or securing loose with proper tools and safety gear. But for extensive damage, steep roofs, or full flashing replacement, hiring a pro makes sure a durable, watertight fix.
Need a reliable fix? At Apex Restoration & Roofing, we provide expert flashing repairs to keep your home protected—give us a call today!
How can I avoid future roof flashing issues?
Regular maintenance helps prevent flashing failures. Inspect flashing twice a year (spring and fall), keep your gutters clear, trim overhanging branches, and apply roofing sealant every 3-5 years to extend its lifespan.
