Roof Inspection: Dormer Flashing, Installation Shortcuts & Why Details Matter

Jay from Blue Fox, here in Charlotte, North Carolina.

Let's talk about dormers.

Step flashing is supposed to be installed where the roof meets the vertical wall. Let's see if we can find some here.

Okay, there's a piece of step flashing. And as you can see, it's been reused. You can actually see the previous nail hole.

Ideally, the flashing should extend out beyond this corner. That's called a pass-through, and it helps direct water away from this vulnerable area.

Now, what you can't see is that there's also flashing underneath these shingles. Actually, I can hear it. There's metal flashing under there.

We prefer to have the apron flashing installed on top of the shingles, as the manufacturer recommends.

As an installer, this is an area that's going to require some special attention. There's not much room to get the flashing properly installed because of the window sill right here.

We need to make sure the flashing extends up underneath that sill. So we'll probably have to remove some of these trim boards to get everything installed correctly.

Now, I hear people say all the time, "My neighbor had his roof done, and it looks great!"

And sure, from the ground, it probably does!

When this roof was installed about 20 years ago, I'm sure it looked pretty good, too.

But look at what's happening over time.

See how these shingles are starting to slide down? That's because they weren't nailed correctly. The nails were placed too high.

Look at this one! We've got bent-over nails, improperly placed nails, and shingles that aren't properly secured.

So yes, it might look good from the ground, but that doesn't mean it was installed correctly.

Now, here's something else I couldn't help but notice.

See this area right here? There's no step flashing!

This is why I bring my flashlight up on the roof with me.

Look closely. The flashing should extend from here and tuck underneath this adjoining section.

Without that protection, wind-driven rain can get pushed right into this opening and potentially enter the home.

It's a small detail, but it's an important one.

And this is exactly why we believe in getting up on the roof and inspecting it in person.

A lot of roofing contractors are promoting the idea that you don't even need to meet with them to get a roofing estimate.

And I understand the appeal. Nobody wants to feel pressured by a salesperson.

But here's the thing: We can get up on your roof, thoroughly inspect it, and explain what we find without being pushy.

We want to help you understand your roof and your options.

That means talking about things like ventilation, drip edge, underlayment, flashing details, and the expected longevity of your shingles.

These are all important parts of a complete roofing system.

And there's only so much we can evaluate if we're relying solely on aerial measurements and calculating a price based on square footage.

My advice?

Work with a roofing contractor you trust. Someone who's willing to explain the entire roofing system so you can make an informed decision based on what you've learned.

And of course, we're always happy to help if you need us.

Jay from Blue Fox Roofing & Renovations. Have a great day!