Damaged waterproofing flashing repair Montreal

Learn more about the process of repairing or replacing damaged waterproof flashing on masonry buildings in Montreal. Call us for a quote!

When doing masonry work, such as replacing a brick or masonry wall, consolidating and securing masonry, or repairing a frost boil, sometimes repairing damaged waterproofing flashing is one of the steps required to repair masonry walls.

What is waterproof flashing?

Flashing is a structural element used to seal around roof penetrations, such as chimneys, ventilation ducts, skylights, parapet walls and other elements that penetrate a building’s roof. 

Its main role is to prevent water infiltration through these vulnerable areas of the roof. Flashing is generally made from impermeable materials such as lead, zinc, aluminum, copper, galvanized steel or composite materials. It is installed to cover the junction between the roof penetration and the roof surface, creating an impermeable barrier to prevent water infiltration.

The most common types of waterproof flashing include:

• Counterflashing: Formed around the roof penetration to create a watertight envelope.
• Base flashing: Installed under the roof penetration to prevent water infiltration at the base.
• Ridge flashing: Used on roof ridges to seal ridge penetrations.
• Chimney flashing: Specially designed for chimneys, it surrounds the base of the chimney where it passes through the roof.
• Roof window flashing: Used around roof windows to prevent leaks.

Flashing must be properly installed and sealed to ensure an effective seal and prevent moisture and mold problems in the building structure. 

What are the signs of damaged flashing?

• Water leaks: Water leaks into the house, especially near roof penetrations such as chimneys, skylights, dormers or ventilation ducts, are a sure sign of damaged flashing.
• Moisture stains or mold: Moisture stains on ceilings, walls or attics, as well as mold growth, can indicate water infiltration due to faulty flashing.
• Visible deterioration: If you notice that the flashing is showing visible signs of deterioration, such as cracks, deformations, holes or tears, it’s probably time to replace it.
• Rust or corrosion: For metal flashings, rust or corrosion is an obvious sign of damage. These problems can weaken the flashing and compromise its watertightness.
• Shifting or lifting: If the flashing is shifted, lifted or improperly fastened, it may not perform its sealing function properly.
• Material spalling: Flashings made of composite materials can crack or spall over time, leading to waterproofing problems.
• Loss of waterproofing: If you find that the waterproofing around the roof penetration is no longer properly secured, this may be due to damaged flashing.

What are the steps involved in flashing repair and replacement?

• Needs assessment: We take the time to inspect the condition of the existing flashing, as well as any potential damage to the masonry wall or roof.
• Site preparation: Rest assured that the site is secure, with appropriate safety measures in place (safety nets, scaffolding, etc.). All objects and furniture in the vicinity of the work area are removed or protected.
• Demolition of old flashing: If the existing flashing is damaged or obsolete, it is carefully removed using appropriate masonry tools.
• Preparing new flashing: New flashing is manufactured to the required dimensions and specifications, and if necessary, a rustproofing treatment can be applied to the new flashing to increase its durability.
• Flashing installation: Masonry-specific adhesive or mortar is applied to the wall or roof around the penetration to ensure an effective seal. The new flashing is carefully positioned and secured in place. It must be level and correctly aligned. If the flashing is used around a chimney or roof penetration, it is fastened at the base of the penetration.
• Finishing and waterproofing: All joints between the wall or roof and the flashing are sealed to ensure an adequate watertight seal, and aesthetic finishes can be applied according to customer preference to match the appearance of the wall or roof.
• Final inspection: At the end of the job, we carry out a final inspection to ensure that the new flashing is properly installed, solid and secure, and that waterproofing tests are carried out to ensure that no water infiltration has occurred.
• Clean-up: The construction site is cleaned to remove any debris or residue.

Why choose Restaure-Action to repair and replace damaged flashings?

Our team of qualified professionals is dedicated to specialized masonry work, and has more than 60 years’ combined experience. We have all the qualifications and skills you need to repair or replace waterproofing flashings. We can carry out these repairs in both the residential sector (houses, apartment buildings, townhouses, duplexes and triplexes) and the commercial sector (commercial spaces, warehouses, historic buildings, etc.). 

**Please note that we do not offer flashing repair services alone. This step is part of many masonry and brick jobs**.

Any questions?

If you have any questions about the replacement and repair of damaged flashings, our other masonry services or to request a free estimate, we invite you to contact us. Our team will get back to you as soon as possible. We travel to many parts of Montreal to provide residential and commercial masonry services.