Lead flashing has been the go-to choice for roofers for decades. But times are changing. More roofing pros across Australia are switching to safer, easier products. One of the best options on the market is Pro Flash Flexi Roll.
At Aztec Australasia, we make Pro Flash Flexi Roll as a modern, lead-free alternative to old-style flashing. It’s light. It’s safe. And it works on almost any roof type. In this guide, we’ll walk you through exactly how to install it on tile and metal roofs, step by step.
Whether you’re a licensed roofer, a plumber, or a DIY renovator, this guide will help you get a clean, watertight finish every time.
What Is a Pro Flash Flexi Roll?
Pro Flash Flexi Roll is a flexible flashing material made from advanced isobutylene EPDM polymer. It has an aluminium mesh built in for extra strength. Unlike lead, it contains no toxic metals. It’s also compliant with AS/NZS 4020, which means it’s safe for use near drinking water systems.
The roll comes with a full adhesive backing. This makes it quick to stick down without extra tools or primers in most cases.
Here’s a quick look at the range:
- Widths: 280mm, 370mm, and 560mm, all sold in 5m rolls
- Minis: 140mm width in 0.50m rolls, ideal for small jobs
- Colours: Black, Dark Grey, Lead Grey, and Terracotta
- Temperature range: -40°C to +100°C
This wide range means you can match the flashing to almost any roof colour and climate zone in Australia.
Why Choose Pro Flash Flexi Roll Over Lead Flashing?
Lead flashing has real risks. It’s heavy. It’s toxic. And it needs careful handling and disposal. Pro Flash Flexi Roll solves these problems.
Here’s why more tradies are making the switch:
It’s safer to handle. There’s no lead exposure risk for your crew or your clients. You avoid the health issues linked to lead dust and offcuts.
It’s lighter and faster to install. The self-adhesive backing cuts your install time. You don’t need to melt, bend, or dress it the same way you would with lead.
It works on more roof types. Pro Flash Flexi Roll suits metal, tile, fibreglass, and polycarbonate roofing. One product covers most of your jobs.
It lasts in tough weather. With a temperature range of -40°C to +100°C, it holds up in both hot Australian summers and cold mountain winters.
It saves on labour costs. Faster installs mean more jobs completed per day. That’s a real bottom-line benefit for roofing businesses and wholesale plumbing supplies customers alike.
Tools and Materials You’ll Need
Before you start, gather these tools. Having everything ready saves time on the roof.
- Pro Flash Flexi Roll (correct width for your job)
- Tape measure and chalk line
- Scissors or a sharp utility knife
- Soft hammer or rubber mallet
- Wire brush or cleaning cloth
- Surface cleaner or degreaser
- Roller (for pressing down the adhesive)
- Gloves and non-slip roofing boots
- Safety harness, if required for the roof height
Good prep with the right tools leads to a stronger seal and a cleaner finish.
Roof Surface Preparation
Surface prep matters. Skip this step, and your flashing may not stick properly.
Start by cleaning the area. Remove all dust, debris, moss, and old sealant. A wire brush works well for stubborn residue. Wipe the surface with a cloth and degreaser if needed.
Next, make sure the surface is completely dry. Moisture stops the adhesive from bonding well. If it rained recently, wait until the roof is fully dry before you begin.
Check the surface temperature too. Extreme heat or cold outside the product’s range can affect how well it sticks.
Finally, inspect the area. Look closely at ridges, valleys, and any roof penetrations. Dry-fit the flashing over the area first. This lets you check the fit before you peel off the backing.
Step-by-Step Installation on Tile Roofs
Tile roofs have grooves and curves. You need to work the flashing into these contours for a tight seal. Follow these steps:
- Measure and cut. Measure the area and cut your Flexi Roll to length. Leave a little extra for overlap.
- Dry-fit first. Lay the roll over the tile joint or penetration. Check the fit before removing any backing.
- Peel back the backing. Start at one end. Peel back a small section of the adhesive liner.
- Press and apply. Apply the flashing from that end. Press firmly as you go, following the tile’s shape.
- Dress into the grooves. Use a soft hammer or roller to push the flashing into the tile contours. This removes air pockets and improves the seal.
- Continue in sections. Keep peeling the backing and pressing down as you move along the roof.
- Trim the edges. Use scissors or a utility knife to trim any excess for a clean, tidy finish.
- Check the seal. Run your hand along all edges. Pay close attention to curves and ridges where gaps can form.
Step-by-Step Installation on Metal Roofs
Metal roofs, like Colorbond or corrugated iron, have ribs and raised sections. The steps are similar, but with a few key differences.
- Measure and cut. Cut the Flexi Roll to match the metal profile you’re working on.
- Clean thoroughly. Metal roofs often have oxidation, dust, or oily residue. Clean the surface well before applying flashing.
- Dry-fit over the ribs. Lay the flashing over the corrugations to check coverage before sticking it down.
- Peel and apply gradually. Remove the backing bit by bit as you press the flashing along the profile.
- Shape by hand. Press the material by hand or with a soft hammer into the ribs and grooves for a tight fit.
- Roll it firmly. Use a roller across the whole surface. This bonds the adhesive and removes trapped air.
- Trim neatly. Cut away excess material at the edges and around fasteners.
- Let it cure. Give the adhesive time to settle before the roof faces heavy rain or wind.
Common Installation Mistakes to Avoid
Even a great product can fail if it’s installed the wrong way. Watch out for these common errors:
- Applying flashing to a dirty or wet surface. This is the top cause of poor adhesion.
- Not pressing out air bubbles. Trapped air weakens the bond and can cause lifting later.
- Installing outside the temperature range. Extreme heat or cold affects how well the adhesive sets.
- Using the wrong width. Under-sizing the flashing leaves gaps and weak spots.
- Skipping the dry-fit step. Always check the fit before you commit to sticking it down.
Avoiding these mistakes will save you callbacks and protect your reputation as a tradie.
Maintenance and Longevity Tips
Once installed, Pro Flash Flexi Roll needs very little upkeep. Still, a few simple checks go a long way.
Inspect the flashing after major storms. Look for any lifting at the edges, especially on roofs with heavy sun exposure. If you spot loose sections, press them back down with a roller.
Thanks to its -40°C to +100°C rating and strong UV resistance, Pro Flash Flexi Roll holds up well over time. Regular visual checks help you catch small issues before they turn into leaks.
Where to Buy Pro Flash Flexi Roll in Australia
Aztec Australasia supplies Pro Flash Flexi Roll to trade professionals and wholesale plumbing supplies customers across Australia. Our range covers all standard widths and colours, so you can match your job specs exactly.
Ready to get started? Download our product brochure or get in touch with the Aztec Australasia team to find your nearest stockist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Pro Flash Flexi Roll suitable for both tile and metal roofs?
Yes. Pro Flash Flexi Roll works on tile, metal, fibreglass, and polycarbonate roofing. It’s designed to shape easily around most common roof profiles.
How long does Pro Flash Flexi Roll last once installed?
It’s built to handle temperatures from -40°C to +100°C and resists UV damage. With proper installation, it offers long-term performance in most Australian climates.
Do I need a primer before applying Pro Flash Flexi Roll?
The roll comes with full adhesive backing for direct application. Always make sure the surface is clean and dry first, as this affects how well the adhesive bonds.
What is the temperature range for installing Flexi Roll?
The product performs in temperatures from -40°C to +100°C. Try to avoid installing in extreme heat or cold, as this can affect adhesive performance during application.
Is Pro Flash Flexi Roll safe for rainwater collection systems?
Yes. It’s compliant with AS/NZS 4020, which means it’s safe for use in and around drinking water systems.
What sizes does Pro Flash Flexi Roll come in?
It comes in three main widths: 280mm, 370mm, and 560mm, each in 5m rolls. A smaller “Minis” option is also available at 140mm width in 0.50m rolls.
Conclusion
Pro Flash Flexi Roll gives you a safer, lighter, and more versatile alternative to traditional lead flashing. It installs faster, handles tough Australian weather, and works across tile, metal, and other roof types.
Follow the steps in this guide, avoid common mistakes, and you’ll get a clean, watertight finish every time. For trade-quality supply and expert support, Aztec Australasia is here to help.
Contact Aztec Australasia today to order Pro Flash Flexi Roll or download our brochure to learn more about the full Pro Flash range.
