Roof Accessories: Roof Flashings

Roof flashing refers to a range of detailing components used to cleanly finish and secure key areas of a roof, including the verges, eaves, ridge and any junctions where the roof meets another surface. Simply put, flashing on a roof is there to protect vulnerable areas and guide water safely away from the building.

So, what is flashing on a roof in practical terms? It’s a protective barrier, usually metal, installed at joints and edges to prevent moisture from entering the structure. Without correctly fitted roofing flashing, rainwater can penetrate gaps around roof edges or walls, leading to damp, staining and long-term structural issues. This makes flashings especially critical in areas exposed to wind-driven rain.

Metal roof flashing for long-term protection

On lightweight steel roofing systems, using the correct metal roof flashing is essential for maintaining both performance and appearance. High-quality steel roof flashing is durable, corrosion-resistant and designed to move with the roof, ensuring long-lasting weather protection.

Metrotile UK supplies purpose-designed flashing for roof applications that integrate seamlessly with its lightweight steel roof systems. These components are engineered for easy installation, a clean finish and dependable performance, all covered by Metrotile’s 40-year weatherproof guarantee.

Common roof flashing types

There are several roof flashing types, each designed to protect a specific part of the roof:

• Roof edge flashing (verge flashings / barge board covers)
  Installed along the edges of the roof to protect the verge and create a neat, finished appearance. Many include a formed water course to ensure rainwater is directed into the gutter, not the roof space.
• Top course flashings
  Used at the highest point of the roof where tiles meet walls or other structures, forming a secure seal. They can also be used on apex roofs as a short course where a full tile isn’t required to meet the ridge.
• Roof to wall flashing (sidewall flashings)
  Fitted where the roof runs alongside a vertical wall, directing water away from the junction and safely into the guttering system.
• Step flashing roof applications
  Commonly used where a roof abuts a stepped wall, allowing water to flow down the roof while remaining sealed at each joint.

Manufactured to match Metrotile roof profiles and finishes, each roof flashing is lightweight, durable and easy to install. Together, these flashings ensure the roof performs as a complete system, not just a surface covering, delivering long-term protection, watertight detailing and a consistently high-quality finish.