What is roof flashing? In Spanish: tapajuntas
English
Flashing
Spanish
Tapajuntas
Also called: flashing, lámina de metal, botaguas
What it means
Flashing is the thin material, usually metal, installed at roof joints to keep water out: around the chimney, where the roof meets a wall, at vents, skylights and valleys. In Spanish it's tapajuntas or botaguas, but many Spanish-speaking crews just say "flashing".
Types of flashing and their Spanish names
| English | Spanish | Where it goes |
|---|---|---|
| Step flashing | Tapajuntas escalonado | Where a sloped roof meets a wall |
| Counter flashing | Contra-tapajuntas | Over the step flashing, set into the wall or chimney |
| Drip edge | Gotero | At the roof edge, so water drops into the gutter |
| Valley flashing | Tapajuntas de valle | In the valley where two roof planes meet |
| Pipe boot | Bota de tubo | Around vent pipes |
Why it matters in an insurance claim
Many leaks don't come from shingles but from flashing that came loose or rusted. When the adjuster writes the estimate, check that new flashing is included. If it isn't and it has to be replaced, ask for it in a supplement with photos.
Phrases to use with the homeowner
| English | Spanish |
|---|---|
| The leak is coming from the flashing around the chimney. | La gotera viene del tapajuntas alrededor de la chimenea. |
| We need to replace the step flashing on this wall. | Hay que cambiar el tapajuntas escalonado de esta pared. |
| Is the flashing included in the insurance estimate? | ¿El estimado de la aseguranza incluye el flashing? |
| The drip edge is bent from the hail. | El gotero está doblado por el granizo. |
Related terms
Frequently asked questions
What is flashing called in Spanish?+
Tapajuntas or botaguas. On job sites many Spanish-speaking roofers simply say flashing.
Can hail damage flashing?+
Yes. Large hail can dent or bend flashing and drip edge, especially thin aluminum.
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