Loading

Types of Deck Flashing

The IRC code requires that you install approved corrosion-resistant flashing in a shingle fashion to prevent water going into the wall cavity. The flashing shall extend to the surface of the exterior wall finish.

Corrosion resistance is defined as the ability of a material to withstand deteriorization of its surface or properties when exposed to its environment.

Deck flashing creates a barrier to prevent moisture from entering the house in the openings you create when attaching your ledger board connection.

You can buy flashing either in roll form or in rigid Z- or L-shaped 10' sheets made of stainless steel, copper or vinyl material. Never use galvanized steel or aluminum flashing in contact with an ACQ pressure-treated wood ledger board because it will corrode. Vinyl flashing is the least expensive option, but it may not work as well in areas with extreme temperature fluctuations. If you are installing copper flashing from a roll, make sure you use copper nails to secure it into place to prevent corrosion. Copper works well because it is compatible with the chemicals used in commonly sold ACQ-treated lumber and is easy to bend. Because flashing comes in different widths, make sure your flashing will be the right size to tuck up behind the house siding at least a couple of inches. We recommend that you install a bead of silicone caulk to fill any openings.

Cut the flashing with tin snips
PinterestSave
Cut the flashing with tin snips

Our White Vinyl Roll Flashing is made of exterior-grade polyvinyl chloride for use with all pressure-treated lumber.

Nail the flashing onto the house.
PinterestSave
Nail the flashing onto the house.

Z Flashing tucks under the siding and wraps over the top of the ledger board.


Popular Ledger Articles
Deck Ledger Board

Attaching the Ledger Board to the House Rim

Learn how to properly install a waterproof ledger board using flashing and fasteners. Check out our step-by-step video and detail drawings.

Deck Ledger Board

Layout Of The Ledger

Learn how to plan ahead to avoid problems when installing your deck ledger board to the house wall.

Deck Ledger Board

Flashing the Ledger Board

You should flash your ledger before you install your decking. Over time, the house frame behind the deck will rot if it gets wet.

Next Step: Care Articles
Deck Cleaning

Pressure Washer Buying Guide

When it comes to cleaning your deck, it's important to choose the right pressure washer. Use this pressure washer buying guide from Decks.com to help with your decision!

Deck Cleaning

What is Wet Rot and How Do You Treat It?

Wet rot occurs when water or high moisture levels cause wood to decay. Learn how to recognize the signs and causes of wet rot and how to treat it.

Deck Cleaning

Best Deck Cleaner Options

Discover the best deck cleaning and brightening solutions for composite decks, wood decks, and more. Learn how to remove dirt, mildew, and algae with Decks.com.

Get more helpful resources delivered right to your inbox

Explore Articles by Topic

Popular Ledger Articles
Deck Ledger Board

what if my deck has no flashing

Our inspector discusses what you should do if you deck ledger board isn't properly flashed.

Deck Ledger Board

Attaching the ledger board to hollow block

Our inspector discusses how to attach a deck to a hollow concrete block foundation wall.

Deck Ledger Board

Attaching the Ledger Board to Brick Siding

Do you have brick siding? You should never attach to just the brick. This is very dangerous.

Next Step: Care Articles
Repairs

How to Remove Scuffs and Scratches from Composite Decking

Removing scuffs and scratches can help make your composite deck look like new. Learn how to fix and prevent your composite deck from future scratches.

Deck Cleaning

How to Ink Stamps from Pressure Treated Lumber

Ink stamps seen on pressure treated wood represents where the lumber came from and its grade. Learn a few tricks to remove this ink from your wood at Decks.com.

Deck Cleaning

Cleaning A Deck

Follow our step by step instructions for how to clean a deck.

Get more helpful resources delivered right to your inbox

Explore Articles by Topic