Kick-out flashing, also known as diverter flashing, is a special type of flashing that diverts rainwater away from the cladding and into the gutter. When installed properly, they provide excellent protection against the penetration of water into the building envelope. Of all of the factors that typically result in rainwater intrusion, a missing kick-out flashing will lead to the most concentrated area of damage. Inspectors should make sure that kick-outs are present where they are needed and that they are installed correctly. Water penetration into the cladding can occasionally be observed on the exterior wall in the form of vertical water stains, although inspectors should not rely on visual identification. There may be severe damage with little or no visible evidence. Inspectors may observe the following problems associated with kick-out flashing: The kick-out was never installed.
- The need for kick-out flashing developed fairly recently and the builder may not have been aware that one was required. The increased amount of insulation and building wrap that is used in modern construction makes buildings less breathable and more likely to sustain water damage. Kick-out flashing prevents rainwater from being absorbed into the wall and is more essential than ever.
The following are locations where kick-out flashing is critical:
- anywhere a roof and exterior wall intersect, where the wall continues past the lower roof-edge and gutter. If a kick-out flashing is absent in this location, large amounts of water may miss the gutter, penetrate the siding, and become trapped inside the wall; and
- where gutters terminate at the side of a chimney.
The kick-out was improperly installed.
- The bottom seam of the flashing must be watertight. If it is not, water will leak through the seam and may penetrate the cladding.
- The flashing should be angled in the direction of drainage. Flashing that is not sloped correctly can retain water, which will drain to the side and possibly enter the building envelope.
The kick-out was modified by the homeowner.
- Homeowners who do not understand the importance of kick-outs may choose to alter them because they are unsightly. A common way this is done is to shorten their height, which will greatly reduce their effectiveness.
In summary, kick-out flashing should be present and properly installed in order to direct rainwater away from the cladding.
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