Metal Roofing Flashing Replacement: What Homeowners Should Know

Metal roof flashing plays a critical role in protecting your home from leaks—especially around chimneys, skylights, valleys, and walls. If flashing fails, water finds its way in fast.

Here’s what you need to know about flashing replacement—and how Roof Nuts CO helps Colorado property owners stay dry and protected.

What is Roof Flashing?

Flashing is thin metal—usually steel, aluminum, or copper—installed at roof joints and transitions to direct water away from seams. It’s commonly found at:

• Chimney bases

• Skylight perimeters

• Roof-to-wall junctions

• Valleys (where two slopes meet)

• Edges and eaves

• Pipe penetrations (vents, plumbing stacks)

When flashing is rusted, loose, or incorrectly installed, it stops doing its job—and your home gets vulnerable to leaks.

Signs You Need Flashing Replacement

Not sure if your metal roof flashing needs work? Watch for these warning signs:

• Rust or corrosion on flashing

• Loose or bent flashing

• Water stains on ceilings or walls

• Visible gaps or sealant failure

• Shingle damage near flashing areas

• Recurring leaks after rain or snowmelt

In Colorado, freeze-thaw cycles and high winds put extra stress on flashing systems. Even newer flashing can separate if installed incorrectly or sealed with low-quality caulk.

Why Metal Roof Flashing Fails

• Improper installation — Fasteners placed too close to edges or poor overlaps

• Sealant degradation — UV, snow, and time break down cheap caulk

• Movement stress — Thermal expansion/contraction shifts metal over time

• Storm damage — Hail and high winds lift flashing or break the seal

According to NRCA standards, all flashing should be inspected during roof evaluations and replaced if deterioration or design flaws are found.

Roof Nuts CO's Approach to Flashing Replacement

At Roof Nuts CO, we treat flashing as a system—not an afterthought. Our flashing replacements follow strict standards based on:

• International Building Code (IBC) & International Residential Code (IRC)

• NRCA installation guidelines

• Metal Construction Association best practices

We only use corrosion-resistant flashing metals and high-performance sealants tested for Colorado's harsh conditions.

Common Flashing Upgrades We Offer:

• Replacing chimney step and counter flashing with pre-bent steel or copper

• Upgrading valley flashing to extended metal pans with hemmed edges

• Installing kick-out flashing at wall terminations to prevent hidden rot

• Adding cricket flashing behind chimneys to prevent snow accumulation

FAQs About Metal Roof Flashing Replacement

How long does metal roof flashing last?

Flashing can last 20–30 years, but sealants and fasteners often fail sooner. Regular inspections catch early issues before major leaks develop.

Can I repair flashing or should I replace it?

Small issues like minor sealant failure can be repaired. But rusted, lifted, or poorly installed flashing should be replaced to prevent ongoing water damage.

How much does flashing replacement cost?

Costs vary depending on access, material (steel, aluminum, copper), and scope. Flashing repairs start around $300, while full replacements at multiple penetrations may range from $1,000–$2,500+.

Serving Colorado with Expert Metal Roofing

We serve homeowners and property managers in:

• Denver

• Colorado Springs

• Aurora

• Fort Collins

• Lakewood

• Thornton

• Arvada

• Westminster

• Pueblo

• Greeley

Need metal roof flashing replaced or inspected? Call Roof Nuts CO at 303-276-2403 or request a free inspection at RoofNutsCO.com.