Cost to Install Flashing 101: Navigating Pricing in Residential Roofing
Roofs last for a long time, usually 30 years or more, depending on the materials and the conditions where you live.
Roofs are not only shingles though-they have many different parts, all of which can wear out or become damaged.
This includes flashing.
If you suspect the flashing on your home needs repair or replacement, you are probably wondering how much it will cost.
That is a difficult question to answer because it depends on many variables.
The good news is that, once you understand what factors impact the cost to install flashing, you can have a better ballpark of the total price tag.
Keep reading to find out more.
What Is Flashing?
Flashing refers to different types of materials that block and redirect water from various parts of your roof.
This keeps water from accumulating in different areas of your roof.
Without it, the base of your roof (and everything underneath it) would be vulnerable to leaks and moisture.
You can find plastic and rubber siding, although most are made of metal.
Even in this category, there is a wide array of choices, including copper, lead, stainless steel, zinc, and others.
Aluminum is by far the most common type of flashing, due to its many advantages.
When Should You Replace Flashing?
Especially with regular roof maintenance, flashing will hold up and perform well for a long time.
In many cases, you can expect to get 30 to 50 years or more, depending on the material.
If you notice rust or corrosion on the flashing, it may be time to get it inspected.
Likewise, signs of leaks inside your home could be an indication of compromised flashing.
What Impacts the Cost to Install Flashing?
In general, flashing is a very affordable product, especially relative to the protections it affords.
Several factors can influence the cost to install flashing.
Here are the main ones to consider.
Material Type
As mentioned, there are many different types of flashing.
Like other roofing materials, there are different advantages and drawbacks to each flashing type.
For instance, metal flashing is generally more expensive and can be more difficult to install (which drives up labor costs).
However, it is very durable, long-lasting, and has an aesthetic appeal (which adds more value to your home).
Rubberized asphalt and plastic flashing are both easy to install and cheaper than metal flashing.
However, they will more easily degrade with sunlight and weather exposure.
Fortunately, with so many flashing material options, you can be sure to find one that suits your roofing goals and budget.
Discuss the various pros and cons of each type-relative to price-with your installer.
Amount of Material Needed
Each roof is unique, with distinct layouts and features.
There are chimneys, vents, dormers, and skylights that require flashing.
Every intersection of the roof and wall requires flashing, as do “valleys” where two roof planes meet.
Likewise, every edge of the roof needs flashing.
This includes eaves (lower edges) and rakes (sloped side edges).
Flashing helps protect against water intrusion in these areas.
Finally, if the repair impacts any doors, windows, or siding, new flashing may be warranted around these areas.
Fortunately, an experienced contractor will be able to estimate at the outset how much flashing material they need.
Complexity of Installation
Besides the sheer scope of the project, another factor that can impact flashing replacement is its complexity.
This is related to the amount of time it takes contractors to finish the job and related labor costs.
If the project is pretty straightforward, you can expect these costs to be minimal.
However, if there are repair areas that are difficult to access or demand special equipment, this could bump the costs up.
If there are safety concerns, including an exceedingly steep roof, this too, could impact installation costs.
Regardless, a contractor should be able to discuss these issues with you before a contract is signed.
While there is always the possibility of surprises, experienced installers will be able to anticipate most challenges and be willing to discuss installation procedures and related costs with you.
Cleanup
Construction cleaning can be an arduous affair.
You cannot simply put old building supplies out for your local garbage service to pick up.
Roofing companies have to take this into account when quoting a project.
They must consider the time and effort it takes to clean up a project site and dispose of the old materials.
For most projects, this is a pretty standard practice.
However, if your roof has an excessive amount of old flashing and other materials that must be hauled away, this could influence the cost.
Most roof installation companies will include cleanup costs in their estimate.
However, be sure to ask about this.
Unsuspected Repairs
If, when replacing flashing, technicians discover additional damage, that will impact the final cost.
Most often this is minor, but replacing flashing when there are other underlying issues will only put a band-aid on the problem.
Depending on the repair, it could require not only more time and labor but materials as well, all of which can influence costs.
The good news is that it is cost-effective to have needed roof repairs done in one fell swoop.
Competent contractors will also be able to explain what restorations are necessary, which (if any) can wait, and what type of issues you can expect in the near future.
Location
Like any service or product, where you live can impact the price of flashing replacement.
Material and labor costs can vary among regions, states, and even geographic locations.
For instance, you can expect prices to be slightly higher across the board in more urban areas than in rural ones.
Find Roof Flashing Repair or Replacement Near You
Now that you understand the factors that can impact the cost to install flashing, you will have a better idea of what to expect with your project.
A reputable roofing company will be able to further advise you on the variables that could influence pricing.
AZ Roofing Works provides the highest quality residential and commercial roofing services to Phoenix, Scottsdale, Mesa, Tempe, and the surrounding areas.
We pride ourselves on finding the right solution for each client, including advice on caring for your roof, and at competitive prices.
Reach out to us to schedule flashing installation or other roofing services today.
Looking for a reputable Scottsdale roofing repair company? AZ Roofing Works is ready to help you! Contact us today, either online or call our office directly, our friendly staff members are standing by at (602) 283-3383.
