A large new roof surface is not enough if its connections remain unclear. These are the details to identify in the proposal and document on site.
Name every transition
Flashing forms a transition around a wall, chimney or penetration. Coping protects a parapet top, a drip edge directs water at an edge, and a valley collects water between slopes. These elements are not treated identically. Ask which are replaced, retained, repaired or excluded, with clear locations.
Examine the connection and its surroundings
Masonry defects, movement or insufficient height can affect a roof connection. Adding sealant does not always explain the cause or lasting solution. Clarify material compatibility and work belonging to another trade. When insulation is added during reroofing, review upstand heights and thresholds before installation.
Keep evidence of completed details
Plan overview and detail photographs before, during and after work. A photograph taken only from the ground rarely shows the connection beneath metal. Request instructions for monitoring joints and future equipment work. An inspection should not assign a universal percentage of leaks to flashing without building-specific evidence.
Prepare for your project
- Transition plan and scope for each detail
- Roofing, masonry and equipment coordination
- Photographs of connections before concealment
Your questions
Is a bead of sealant enough?
It depends on the detail and defect. Sealant does not automatically replace flashing, an upstand or a substrate correction. Ask why the proposed repair is appropriate.
References for further reading
Association canadienne des entrepreneurs en couverture — DépannageConsult the exact product documentation and address-specific requirements. This guide helps prepare a project; it is not an estimate or design specification.
What about your property?
Turn this guide into a request describing your actual situation.
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