What do flashing protect and which elements do they guard against?

Flashing serves a crucial role in protecting exterior joints in construction. It is designed to prevent water infiltration at critical points where different elements meet, such as where a roof meets a wall or around chimneys and vents. By directing water away from these vulnerable areas, flashing effectively guards against the damaging effects of sun, wind, and water.

Water intrusion can lead to mold growth, wood rot, and structural damage, while sun and wind can degrade materials over time. Proper installation of flashing minimizes these risks by creating a barrier that channels moisture away from joints, ensuring the longevity and integrity of the building.

The other options focus on different aspects of building protection but do not fully capture the primary purpose of flashing in guarding against the elements at joints in exterior structures.