Step and Kick-Out Sidewall Flashing

When a run of eaves trough ends up against a vertical wall or chimney at right angles, there is no way it is going to create a waterproof seal. That’s because some water is bound to overflow at this point. And if that wall has siding on it, capillary action is almost inevitably going to find a way through any gaps.

Fortunately, Valiant Exteriors has a way to mitigate this, using step and kick-out sidewall flashing. The principle is almost easier enough to DIY if you don’t mind tall ladders. However, we must insist you check your insurance first, and make sure that ladder is really secure!

The Right Way to Install Step and Kick-Out Sidewall Flashing

The U.S. Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy provides the following guidelines for installation:

1… Install step and kick-out flashing at all roof-wall intersections to protect walls from water intrusion.

2… Check the roof felt before proceeding. If using galvanized steel flashing this should be at least 0.019-inches thick.

3… Fit overlapping flashing at least four inches up the adjacent wall and integrate this with the house wrap.

4… Install the step and kick-out sidewall flashing to divert water away from the wall and into the eaves trough.

5… Fit overlapping shingles over the step flashing to complete a weather-tight seal around it

6… Ensure the flashing is large enough to handle expected storm water flows. Recheck all interfaces carefully.

How to Fabricate Step and Kick-Out Sidewall Flashing

Some Clients Ask, Is this Really Necessary?

Your eaves trough system may not come cheap. However, it does perform the admirable task of helping keep your home and immediate surrounds dry. If you don’t have these kick-out deflectors where they’re needed, at the very least you are likely to have unsightly stains running down a wall.

But that’s not necessarily all you could expect. If capillary action draws moisture between gaps in the siding, you could introduce damp to the inner wall itself. This can manifest as damp marks on the adjacent interior wall and ceiling. This is all so unnecessary if you get things right first time.

Where to Turn for Reliable, Professional Advice

Valiant Exteriors Limited in Calgary provides a personal, owner-driven roofing, siding and eaves trough service throughout Calgary and immediate surrounds. Speak to us first before you place your order elsewhere. Let’s keep the business local and grow our community together.