More Information: COLORBOND® Roof Flashings (Custom Made)
What is a roof flashing?
Roof flashing is a thin, shaped piece of metal that directs water away from joints, edges and penetrations so it can’t enter your home. Roof flashing comes in various forms to suit different areas and purposes on a roof. Flashing is made up of individual pieces installed at critical points to form a continuous waterproof barrier.
On metal roofs, flashings create a neat, weather-tight finish where the roof meets walls, parapets, chimneys, skylights, vents, and window flashings. Exposed flashing is typically installed in visible areas and is made from durable, weather-resistant materials. Each type of flashing is named according to its shape and application. Roof flashing serves as a crucial product in the roofing system, providing a waterproof barrier at vulnerable points.
Why choose COLORBOND® & ZINCALUME® flashings?
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Genuine BlueScope steel – durable, low-maintenance and colour-matched to your roofing and walling.
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Custom cut to length – order the exact dimensions you need for fast installation and a clean finish on your half-round gutters.
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Consistent quality – precise bends/returns for straight lines and reliable water run-off.
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Fast delivery – VIC, NSW, QLD, TAS & ACT; Australia-wide postage items available.
Flashing materials: what are your options?
When it comes to flashing materials, there’s a wide range of options to suit different needs, budgets, and building designs. Metal flashings are the most common, with popular choices including aluminium, zinc, galvanised steel, and lead. Each metal has its own strengths: for example, aluminium is lightweight and corrosion-resistant, making it a good fit for many modern homes, while zinc offers durability and a sleek finish that can match contemporary wall cladding. Galvanised steel is a cost-effective option that provides solid protection, and lead is valued for its flexibility and ability to form around complex shapes—though it’s used less often today due to environmental concerns.
In coastal areas, where salt and moisture are concentrated, it’s important to select flashing materials that can withstand harsh conditions. Products like pre-painted steel and coated steel are designed to offer extra corrosion resistance, making them ideal for these environments. Flexible flashing materials, such as acrylic, rubber, and butyl rubber, are also available for situations where a tight seal is needed around irregular roof penetrations or wall junctions.
When choosing a flashing material, always consider the specific requirements of your property—such as the type of wall cladding, the presence of roof protrusions, and the local climate. The right material will not only provide effective waterproofing but also match the appearance and durability needs of your home or building.
Common flashing types (and where they’re used)
There are various roof flashing types, each designed for a specific place on the roof to seal and protect areas such as valleys, vents, and other protrusions.
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Barge capping – seals and finishes the gable end.
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Apron flashing – where a roof abuts a wall (e.g., under weatherboards or cladding).
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Valley flashing – sits in internal roof valleys to carry water to gutters. Flashing is typically installed at these places to ensure effective water management and prevent leaks.
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Ridge capping – covers the apex where two roof planes meet.
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Parapet capping – tops parapet walls to shed water forward and back.
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End stop / End flashing – closes off sheet ends and trims.
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Z flashing – head flashing over windows/doors in wall cladding.
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Box gutter flashings & corners – for box gutters, stop ends and internal/external corners.
Design and compatibility considerations
Proper design and compatibility are essential for a successful flashing installation. Flashings should be carefully designed to match the unique needs of your roof and wall cladding, taking into account features like valleys, roof protrusions, and wall penetrations. The choice of flashing material should suit the application, with attention to how it will respond to expansion and contraction caused by temperature changes.
For example, in areas where water tends to collect—such as valleys or around roof protrusions—it’s crucial to design flashings that prevent water from becoming concentrated and causing leaks. Expansion joints or flexible sealants can be used to accommodate movement and maintain a watertight seal over time. The installation should ensure that all seams and joints are properly sealed, using compatible materials like coated steel or sheet metal to provide a continuous barrier against water entry.
Delving into the specifics of flashing design, it’s important to ensure that each piece is cut and shaped to fit precisely, with overlaps and joints positioned to direct water away from vulnerable points. By considering these factors and choosing materials and designs that suit your property’s needs, you can provide long-lasting protection and maintain the structural integrity of your home.
How to order custom flashings (quick guide)
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Choose profile – barge, apron, ridge, parapet, valley, Z, end stop, etc.
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Confirm material/finish – COLORBOND® colour or ZINCALUME®; choose thickness to suit your job.
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Enter dimensions – use the format e.g. 10 × 75 × 140 × 10 (returns/legs in millimetres) and add angle if required.
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Length – select your cut length per piece; order long runs where practical to reduce joins.
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Site conditions – coastal or industrial? Ask us about suitable grades and fixings.
Installation notes (overview)
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Install so water is directed onto the weathering surface (roof sheet or gutter), not behind it. Special attention should be given to sealing around holes created by roof penetrations such as vents and skylights to prevent water and moisture ingress.
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Overlap long runs and seal laps with a compatible, neutral-cure silicone where specified. Proper sealing at every joint is essential to prevent water ingress and accommodate movement.
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Use fasteners that match the material and environment, spaced to manufacturer guidance. Wind action can exert significant pressure on roof components, so secure fixing of flashing is critical to withstand these forces and prevent damage.
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For complex penetrations (skylights, chimneys, parapets), engage a licensed installer.
Providing a continuous barrier against water intrusion at all vulnerable points is essential for long-term durability. Avoid relying solely on sealants for waterproofing; incorporate flashing to ensure reliable, long-term protection.
FAQs
What is roof flashing in Australia?
In Australia, roof flashing is a shaped metal component—commonly COLORBOND® or ZINCALUME®—that prevents water ingress at junctions and openings. It’s specified and installed to suit our climate and building methods and is a critical part of a compliant roofing system.
What are the standards for flashing in Australia?
Flashings should be designed and installed in line with Australian building requirements and manufacturer instructions. Always follow your roofing supplier’s technical guides and local regulations for lap, coverage, fastening and sealant compatibility.
Can I replace roof flashing myself?
Small, simple trims can be DIY if you’re confident working safely at height, but complex areas—valleys, parapets, step flashings and penetrations—are best handled by a licensed roofer for weather-tightness and compliance.
How long do COLORBOND® flashings last?
Service life depends on location, environment and maintenance. In normal conditions, genuine BlueScope COLORBOND® performs for many years when installed and maintained correctly. In severe marine or industrial areas, choose suitable grades and rinse surfaces periodically.
Do you deliver custom flashings to my area?
Yes. We deliver across VIC • NSW • QLD • TAS • ACT, with Australia-wide options for postage items. See delivery timeframes on our Delivery Information page or contact us for a quick ETA.
Helpful links
COLORBOND® Gutters • Downpipes • Fascia • COLORBOND® Roofing • Delivery Information • COLORBOND Steel Valley Gutters
Service areas: VIC • NSW • QLD • TAS • ACT • Australia (postage items)
