40 Hour Property and Building Inspection Practice Test

Which component is critical in ensuring waterproofing at wall and roof intersections?

1. Edge flashing

2. Valley flashing

3. Dormer flashing

4. All-purpose flashing

The correct answer is: Edge flashing

Edge flashing is crucial for ensuring waterproofing at wall and roof intersections because it is specifically designed to direct water away from these vulnerable areas, preventing moisture infiltration that can lead to structural damage or mold growth. This type of flashing is installed along the edges of the roof, providing a barrier where the roof meets a vertical surface, such as a wall. By properly guiding water off the roof and preventing it from running down the wall, edge flashing minimizes the likelihood of leaks occurring at these intersections. Its placement is essential in maintaining the integrity of the building's exterior, particularly in areas where water is most likely to collect or where different materials meet. Other types of flashing, such as valley, dormer, and all-purpose flashing, serve different purposes in the roofing system. Valley flashing is intended for the areas where two roof slopes meet, dormer flashing addresses the intersection between dormers and the roof, and all-purpose flashing can be applied to various areas but may not provide the same focused protection at wall and roof intersections as edge flashing does.