After covering the various types of shingles, open vs. closed valley flashing, and roof ventilation, this month we finish our four part series about roofing options with an post about roofing accessories. We will focus on common roofing accessories available for those in the Wichita Kansas metro area but the information should apply to most of the home in the Midwest too.
What are Roofing Accessories and why do they matter?
Roof accessories are vital components which prevent water intrusion, ensure proper ventilation and a roof’s durability. At S&A we like to start with providing the homeowner the ability to accessorize their home’s roof by coordinating colored flashings. Roof flashing include drip edges, vents, pipe jack flashings, chimney flashings and valleys. These complimentary colors provide for a more natural look to your home’s roof, with only a small additional investment.
Drip Edge Flashing for Preventing Water Damage
We strongly recommends homeowners invest in drip edge flashings to their home’s roof line to prevent water damage. The drip edge flashing pushes the water into the gutters, instead of the fascia and soffits. For the Wichita, Kansas area, S&A recommends the use of a Style D drip edge flashing which has an additional ½ inch overhang built into the flashing. This additional flashing profile helps prevent shingle, roof and water damage that may occur with other drip edge styles.
Additional Roofing Accessory Options Include:
- Hip and Ridge finishing shingles are precut shingles to protect against leaks while adding a sleek and complete finish to any roof.
- Ice and water shields are barriers added to the roof deck to prevent ice and water penetration in eaves, rakes, valleys, vents, chimneys and skylights.
- Synthetic roof underlayments are water barriers used between the roof deck and the shingles to protect your attic from water intrusion and potential mold growth.
- Starter strip shingles are used along the eaves when beginning a roofing job to increase roofing speed and eliminate waste caused by cutting shingles.
Still have Questions? Contact a Trusted Local Roofer in the Wichita, KS area
Our approach is that you are purchasing a roof system and it is a valuable investment for your home. You should find a professional roofer that will spend the time help you learn and explore the differences in roof system components including shingle types, ventilation, flashing, accessories and the quality of a home’s roof installation. The goal is to balance your wants and needs with the appropriate application while considering your budget.
We hope the above helped you become more informed about the various types of shingles, open vs. closed valley flashing, roof ventilation, and accessories available for roofs and homes in the Wichita, KS Metro area. If you are in the area and in need of a new roof or just more information, please consider S&A Construction of Wichita KS. Give us a call or e-mail any time.
In the meantime, let us know if you have any questions, other ideas, or comments about roofing!