Why Replacing Flashing During a Roof Replacement Isn’t Optional When homeowners think of a roof replacement, shingles are usually the first thing that comes to mind. But shingles are only one part of a complete roofing system. Hidden beneath the surface is roof flashing—thin metal installed around chimneys, walls, and roof transitions to keep water out. If flashing is not replaced during a new roof installation, your home is left vulnerable to leaks, rot, and long-term structural damage. The reality is, replacing all flashing isn’t just best practice—it’s both a code requirement and a manufacturer’s warranty requirement. Why Many Roofers Neglect to Replace Flashings.... Unfortunately, not every contractor follows the rules. Here’s why flashing often gets skipped: Time = Money: Properly replacing step flashing and apron flashing requires removing siding or cutting into masonry. That takes time, and time cuts into profit. The flashing itself is inexpensive—it’s the labor most roofers want to avoid. Cutting Corners: Some contractors assume homeowners won’t know whether old flashings were reused. The problem usually doesn’t show up until years later—long after the roofer has been paid and moved on. Lack of Knowledge or Training: Here’s a hard truth: in many states, roofing does not require a roofing-specific license, education, or formal training. Too often, the people selling the job, ordering materials, inspecting the work, or even installing the roof are not true craftsmen of the trade. -Many just simply do not understand how flashing integrates with siding or brickwork . -They may not have the skillset to remove and reinstall siding properly. -They may not even know that reusing flashings violates code and voids warranties. This lack of oversight and craftsmanship is one of the biggest reasons homeowners end up with leaking “new” roofs. The Critical Role of Each Flashing: -Chimney Flashing: Seals one of the most leak-prone areas of the roof. -Brick Counter Flashing: Protects where the roof meets masonry walls. -Step Flashing: Installed piece by piece where the roof meets vertical walls—one missing piece of flashing, or any damaged flashing, can lead to major structural repairs in the near future. -Headwall/Apron Flashing: Directs water away at roof-to-wall transitions. -Without proper flashing, even the best shingles won’t prevent water from entering your home. -Kick-out Flashing: Diverts water into the gutter at the lowest point of the sidewall, stopping the wall behind the siding from rotting away. -What the Building Code Says: -The International Residential Code (IRC) is clear about flashing replacement. Section R905.2.8.3 requires that all step flashing be no less than 4"x4"x8" and cannot be punctured, damaged, rusted, or deteriorated—or it must be replaced. -Ignoring code doesn’t just put your home at risk—it can also void your manufacturer’s warranty. At Bulletp ROOF Exteriors, we believe in doing what’s right, every time, regardless of who’s watching or ignorantly influencing. Why Flashing's Must Always Be Replaced: Building code requires it -Ignoring code doesn’t just put your home at risk—it can also void your manufacturer’s warranty. At Bulletp ROOF Exteriors, we believe in doing what’s right, every time, regardless of who’s watching or ignorantly influencing. Manufacturer warranties require it Your home deserves it When flashing is skipped or reused, you risk leaks, rotted framing, damaged drywall, and EVEN MOLD!!! . Worse, your manufacturer’s warranty can be voided, leaving you with an unprotected roof that should have lasted a lifetime. The Bulletp ROOF Difference At Bulletp ROOF Exteriors , we do it right—every time: ****All flashings are replaced with new, code-compliant materials**** Every installation meets manufacturer standards to protect warranties Work is performed by true craftsmen who understand roofing from the ground up No shortcuts, no reused materials, no excuses ✅ Bottom Line: A roof is only as good as its weakest detail. Replacing shingles without replacing flashing is like buying a brand-new car and putting the old car’s engine in it. 📞 Call 301-750-2208 today for a free roof inspection and experience the Bulletp ROOF difference. Frequently Asked Questions About Roof Flashing Q: Do roofers have to replace flashing when installing a new roof? Yes. Both building code and manufacturer warranties require new flashing during roof replacement. Reusing old flashing can void your warranty and lead to leaks. Q: How do I know if my flashing needs to be replaced? If flashing is rusted, bent, punctured, deteriorated, or improperly sized, it must be replaced. Even if it looks intact, builder-grade flashing often fails before and/or after one roof cycle. Q: What happens if contractors reuse flashing? Reusing flashing creates weak points where water can enter. You may not notice problems immediately, but leaks, rot, and mold can develop within a few days to a few years depending on conditions. Q: Is flashing replacement expensive? Not at all. The metal itself is inexpensive—the main cost is the labor to install it correctly. Skipping flashing might save a contractor time, but it can cost homeowners thousands in repairs down the road.

"I Have a Guy That Can Do It Cheaper" – Why Cheaper Isn’t Always Better in Roofing If you’ve ever gotten a roofing estimate, you’ve probably said or heard: “I have a guy that can do it cheaper.” It’s a fair thought — nobody wants to overpay. But when it comes to roof replacement or roof repair, the cheapest roofing contractor can quickly become the most expensive mistake you’ll ever make. 1. The Real Cost of Hiring the Cheapest Roofer Going with the lowest bid might mean: Inferior materials that won’t hold up to Maryland, West Virginia, or Pennsylvania weather Unlicensed roofing contractors who can disappear overnight No roofing-specific insurance, leaving you exposed to liability No workers comp insurance, making you — the homeowner — financially responsible for job site injuries Shortcuts in installation, like using staples to anchor underlayment instead of ring shank cap nails — which provide superior holding strength and weather resistance — skipping flashing, omitting proper ventilation, or failing to install an ice & water shield where required No enforceable warranty 💡 Did You Know? Staples will void your manufacturers warranty? Ring shank cap nails lock the material securely and keep your roof watertight. ⚠ Homeowner Warning: A $2,000 savings now can turn into a $10,000 roofing disaster later — or worse, a full roof replacement just a few years after installation. 2. The BulletpROOF Exteriors Difference At BulletpROOF Exteriors, we aren’t here to be the cheapest — we’re here to be the best licensed roofing contractor in MD, WV, and PA. ✅ GAF Master Elite® Certified – Top 2% of roofers nationwide ✅ Presidents Club Award Winner – 2 Years in a Row ✅ Fortified Roofing Certified – Meeting the industry’s toughest resilience standards for wind, hail, and storm protection ✅ High-quality roofing materials designed for local climate demands ✅ Full compliance with state licensing, liability, and workers comp requirements ✅ Strong manufacturer & workmanship warranties for long-term protection 📌 What “Fortified Roofing Certified” Means: This certification proves that your roof is installed to meet enhanced building standards for severe weather. It can increase storm resistance, extend roof life, and even lower some homeowners’ insurance premiums. 3. Why Quality Roofing Beats Cheap Roofing Every Time Your roof is your home’s first line of defense against rain, wind, snow, and heat. Poor workmanship or cheap materials can lead to leaks, mold, structural damage, and costly repairs. 💡 Did You Know? Roof warranties are only valid when all accessories are brand-specific and approved by the manufacturer. Mixing brands can void your coverage. Choosing a licensed, insured, and certified roofer means you get: A roof that lasts decades Protection from liability lawsuits Guaranteed workmanship and materials True peace of mind 4. How to Compare Roofing Estimates — The Right Way When reviewing bids, compare more than price. Ask every roofer these questions: Licensing & Insurance Verification Are you licensed in this state? Does your contractor license name match your business name? Do you have roofing-specific liability insurance? Liability Insurance companies won’t cover claims for work outside the scope of the policy. Do you have workers comp insurance? Without it, you could be liable for injuries or fatalities on your property. Can you provide proof of licenses and insurance — and may I verify them? Always confirm with the state licensing board and insurance provider. Quality & Warranty What brand and grade of shingles or materials will you use? Are all of the accessories brand-specific? Warranties from manufacturers are only valid on qualifying products. How long is the workmanship warranty, and is it in writing? Does the workmanship warranty cover misapplication? How do you monitor your quality on the job and after completion? Are your crews trained, certified, and supervised? Can you show me recent projects and customer reviews in my area? ⚠ Homeowner Warning: If the “cheaper guy” can’t answer these questions — or won’t let you verify — that’s a major red flag. 5. Final Word: Protect Your Home & Investment Hiring a licensed roofing contractor with verified roofing insurance and workers comp coverage isn’t optional — it’s essential to protecting yourself financially and legally. 💡 Did You Know? The most expensive roof you will ever put on is the one you have to do twice because you hired the wrong contractor. At BulletpROOF Exteriors, we combine craftsmanship, compliance, and customer care so you never have to worry about your roof again. Remember: If you’re planning a new roof, make your plan BulletpROOF. 📞 Call us today at 301-750-2208 for a free roof inspection and estimate in Maryland, West Virginia, or Pennsylvania.

Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Metal Roofs

When Should I Expect to Replace My Roof in Central Maryland?