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Utility lines (such as electricity and gas), propane, LPG installations, and gas appliances can enter a house from above the roof, as is often in older, multi-story buildings.
Improper roof flashings for these utility lines can result in water damage, gas leaks, ventilation issues, combustion risks, freezing issues, pest infestation, and more.
In this article, we’ll discuss proper roof utilities flashing, especially using products from Menzies Metal, the most trusted name in roof flashings in North America.
Electrical Utilities Flashing
When electrical utility lines enter the building from above the roof, water entry is the main risk we want to prevent. Water can damage the building’s interior and power lines.
The electrical service drop entrance must be high enough for entering wires to have a “drip loop” and sturdy enough to remain upright despite the weight of the electrical cables.
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It comes in 2″ and 3″ diameter options:
As no two roof conditions are exactly alike, we can make Electrical Retro Boxes in the exact size you need:
Gas Line Flashing
Flashing above-roof gas utility lines is particularly important since damaged gas pipes are a significant safety hazard. They can lead to gas leaks, which can cause asphyxiation, fires, or explosions.
Corroded gas lines are becoming increasingly common in old buildings and houses with outdated heating technology. In cases where a replacement is out of the question, we recommend using our Gas Retro Box for the retrofitting job. Like our Electrical Retro Box, it will secure existing gas lines while maintaining the existing connection.
Condensation-Proof Bathroom Vents
Condensation, freezing, and pest intrusion are the main dangers for bathroom and dryer vents, which vent moist air and odors from the building interior. In cold climates, moisture in the dryer vent pipes/hoses can freeze, leading to clogs and overheating.
Meanwhile, improperly installed bathroom vents may lack measures to keep pests from entering the ventilation system. The lack of this protection also worsens the system’s susceptibility to freezing.
Our SL5000 Bath/Dryer Vent addresses all these concerns and more. Additional insulation around its multiple vents effectively prevents condensation from freezing inside the pipes. Each vent also has a damper that keeps the opening easily closed when not in use, protecting the system from pests and freezing temperatures.
Protect Your Roof Utilities With the Best Flashing Products
The right flashing product for your roof utility line can mean the difference between frequent repairs and retrofits versus years of worry-free comfort. We at Menzies know this, so we ensure all our roof flashing products are sturdy and Code-compliant while being economical and easy to install.
Visit our catalog of metal flashing products today to find exactly what you need for your roofs.
