I’ve seen those butyl tapes hold up okay for a season or two, but once winter hits here (upper Midwest), they start peeling at the edges. I get why folks try ‘em—sometimes you just need a quick fix—but I’m with you on the full replacement being less headache in the long run. Skipping primer or using the wrong sealant is just asking for trouble, though... seen too many callbacks because of that.
I’ve had a few units where the maintenance guys tried butyl tape for quick flashing patches, and it never lasted past the first real cold snap. The seams always start lifting, and then you’re chasing leaks all winter. I get wanting to save time (and budget), but every time we’ve skipped full replacement or used off-brand sealant, it’s ended up costing more in water damage. Honestly, I’d rather deal with the upfront headache than keep getting service calls when ice dams hit.
Yeah, I’ve seen butyl tape used as a shortcut more times than I can count, and it’s always the same story—looks fine for a month or two, then the first freeze hits and you’re back up there with a heat gun and a bucket. It just doesn’t hold up when temps swing or when you get snow sitting on those seams. I get why folks try to save a buck, but honestly, patch jobs like that are just kicking the can down the road.
Full replacement is a pain, sure, but at least you know what you’re dealing with. I’ve had customers who tried every sealant under the sun—some of those off-brand ones are basically just sticky goo that never really sets. Once water gets in behind the flashing, it’s game over. Mold, rot, drywall damage... way more expensive than doing it right the first time.
If budget’s tight, I’d rather see someone do a proper repair on the worst spots and plan for full replacement later than slap on another layer of tape. At least then you’re not chasing leaks all winter.
I hear you on the butyl tape. It’s tempting when you’re staring at a leaky seam and just want it done, but I’ve seen way too many “quick fixes” turn into bigger headaches. Around here (Midwest), the freeze-thaw cycles just chew up anything that isn’t properly installed. I’ve even seen some of those “miracle” sealants peel right off after one winter.
Honestly, if you’re dealing with old aluminum flashing that’s already compromised, patching is just a band-aid. I get that budgets are tight—been there myself—but half-measures usually mean you’re back up there in a few months, and sometimes the water damage inside is way worse than you thought. If you can, prioritize the worst spots and use a high-quality, compatible sealant (not the bargain bin stuff). But long-term? Full replacement is the only thing that’s really held up for me.
One thing I’d add: if you’re going to replace, consider recycled aluminum or even steel flashing. Costs a bit more upfront, but it’s tougher and better for the environment. Just my two cents.
- Quick fixes with butyl or miracle goop? Yeah, I’ve seen those peel up faster than a sticker on a hot day.
- Midwest freeze-thaw is brutal—patches just don’t last.
- If you’re desperate, sure, slap some sealant on the worst spots, but don’t expect miracles.
- Full replacement’s the only thing that’s actually held up for me, too.
- Recycled aluminum or steel flashing is solid advice—costs more, but you won’t be back up there every spring cursing last year’s shortcut.
- Learned that lesson the hard way after a hailstorm... never again.
