Why Bespoke Flashings Can Make All The Difference
By Steadmans Technical Team
When think about roofing and cladding projects, the attention is naturally drawn to the larger components of the building envelope, the external cladding, the structural frame and the overall appearance of the project.
However, it’s often the smaller details that determine how successfully a project performs in the long term.
One detail that is often overlooked are the flashings and the role they play in protecting a building and the aesthetic of the building.
Many projects can be completed using standard flashing details, and for straightforward applications these solutions often work perfectly well. However, not every building is straightforward and not every detail is standard.
This is where bespoke flashings can make a real difference.
No Two Projects Are The Same
One of the challenges with roofing and cladding is that every building presents its own set of design requirements.
A new-build commercial unit may have different detailing requirements to a refurbishment industrial project. Bespoke architectural buildings can often present unique junctions and interfaces. Commercial developments may include architectural ‘brand specific’ features that require more complex detailing.
In these situations, relying on a standard profile can sometimes lead to compromises.
Bespoke flashing allows the detail to be designed around the project rather than forcing the project to work around the most economical flashing.
Why The Detail Matters
Flashings are often responsible for protecting some of the most vulnerable parts of a building, where the cladding system cannot.
Roof-to-wall junctions, changes in direction, exposed edges and interfaces between different materials all require careful consideration.
If these details are not properly, issues such as water ingress, premature deterioration and ongoing maintenance problems can occur.
The purpose of a bespoke flashing is not simply to create a neat finish. It’s to help ensure the detail performs as intended while contributing to the overall integrity of the building envelope.
The Benefits Of Bespoke Flashings
One of the most obvious benefits of a bespoke flashing is that the detailing is designed around the specific requirements of a junction or a building requirement. With the correct detailing, it is possible to achieve a much more accurate solution than may be possible using a standard profile.
This often leads to:
- Improved weather protection
- Better integration with roofing and cladding systems
- Reduced on-site modification
- Faster installation
- A more professional finished appearance
From a contractor’s perspective, reducing the amount of cutting, adapting and modifying required on site can save both time, effort and cost.
Getting Involved Early
Flashings can sometimes be treated as a final item to be resolved towards the end of the design process. In reality, they form an important part of the overall building envelope and should be considered alongside the primary roofing and cladding systems.
Considering the flashing requirements on a project earlier can often help avoid complications later by allowing details to be properly reviewed, dimensions confirmed and potential challenges identified before the cladding installation begins.
Working From Drawings And Specifications
At Steadmans, we regularly manufacture bespoke flashings based on a customer’s design, drawings, dimensions and project specifications.
The process is often more straightforward than people expect and can help deliver a solution that is better suited to the project from the outset. In some cases the detail may need refining to ensure it performs effectively while remaining practical to manufacture and install.
A Small Detail With A Big Impact
Flashings rarely receive the same attention as the larger elements of a building, but they remain one of the most important components in ensuring long-term performance.
Investing time in getting the detailing right at an early stage almost always pays dividends later.
Whether it’s a standard detail or a bespoke solution, the objective remains the same: protecting the building, supporting performance and delivering a professional finish.
Because when it comes to roofing and cladding, the smallest details are often the ones that matter most.
Steadmans is the leading UK manufacturer of building materials for the agricultural and steel building sectors, specialising in galvanised roofing sections, composite wall and roof sheets, metal cladding, roofing products and fibre cement sheeting.
For further information on Steadmans’ full range of products:
call: 016974 78277
email: [email protected] or
visit: www.steadmans.co.uk
