There are many advantages of having a flat roof, from lower installation costs to better energy efficiency. But it is still important to look after it in just the same way you would a pitched roof, including making sure the flashing is in good condition. 

With flat roofs, metal flashings help to protect against dampness, particularly as flat roofs do not drain water as quickly as sloped ones. Therefore, rainwater remains on the roof materials for longer. 

The risk is that water pooling may occur if it does not drain fast enough, and this could result in it seeping through the membrane. 

If it gets into the ceiling, this could have lasting damage on the structure of the roof, particularly if the damp goes unnoticed for a long period of time. It could even lead to rotting timber, which may end up being a considerable cost in the long-run. 

Flashings, however, work by shielding roofs from rainwater. They also protect against damage from heavy winds, as these could force rain through gaps in the roof, such as around windows or chimneys. 

Metal flashings are particularly effective, but it is even better to also use one that is made of rubber. This provides twice as much protection, giving homeowners the confidence their homes will remain damp-free. 

Using a rubber flashing as well as a metal one means that rubber is less likely to become damaged over time. Therefore, it is still able to offer protection even if the metal roof rusts or deteriorates.

This buys some time before the flat roof specialists can come in to repair it, preventing more weather damage occurring.

Thinking about roof flashings is particularly important in the winter months, as heavy rains, stormy weather, snow, and ice are frequent occurrences. Homeowners that are concerned their flashing needs repairing should consider getting it checked out before they find out through a leak in their ceiling.