Final answer:
Bent pieces of metal used to waterproof a house are known as flashing, typically made from galvanized steel. Flashing is essential for preventing water damage at structural junctions and interrupting components such as windows, doors, and roof intersections.
Step-by-step explanation:
The bent pieces of metal to waterproof a house are often referred to as flashing. Flashing is used in construction to prevent water from entering the building at joints or where there are interruptions in a part of the structure, such as at windows, doors, chimneys, and especially roof junctions. In roofing, it is typically placed at the valleys, around the perimeter of skylights, and where the roof surface meets a vertical plane like a wall or dormer.
Proper installation of flashing is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the roofing material and the overall structure of the house. Galvanized steel or other rust-resistant metals are often utilized due to their durability and effectiveness at protecting the house against water damage. Not only does flashing serve a functional purpose, but it can also be aesthetically pleasing when installed correctly.
Therefore, those bent pieces of metal are a critical aspect of waterproofing in construction, ensuring that buildings remain dry and protected from the potential damages caused by water infiltration.