What Is Kickout Flashing and Do I Need It?

March 4, 2025
A picture of a roof and a picture of a gutter.

Kickout flashing, also known as diverter flashing, performs a much-needed function to protect the hidden components of your home’s building envelope. Within the last 20 years this technique has been implemented to prevent hidden damage to the structure of your home. From exterior wall sheathing, wall framing and even wooden foundation elements, the lack of proper flashing can lead to thousands of dollars in damage. Damage that you may not know exists until it is too late.

Kickout flashings have been required by the International Residential Code (IRC) since 2009. Technically, flashing requirement were first noted by the IRC in 2000, but no direct reference to “Kickout/diverter Flashing” was made at this point.


The North Carolina Residential Building Code states:


“Flashings shall be installed at roof and wall intersections, wherever there is a change in roof slope or direction and around roof openings. A flashing shall be installed to divert the water away from where the eave of a sloped roof intersects a vertical sidewall.”


The flashing is required to extend a minimum of 4″ up the sidewall and it should have approximately a 110 degree angle. Too sharp of an angle can trap debris or create an ice dam, leading to water back up and entry.


If you are having your roof replaced, at least locally, there is no requirement for the installer to install kickout flashing. Be sure to check with your local building department to determine if it is required in your area. If it is not required, I highly recommend you request that it be added. Most exterior claddings can be cut/adjusted to accommodate the installation of the kick out flashing and can be performed by the roofing contractor. However, some types of veneer require a specialist to make the repair. These would be Stucco, Adhered Masonry Stone, etc. There are specific installation requirements and techniques used to install the flashing. If not performed properly, it could do more harm than good. Hiring a qualified contractor is always recommended.


The cost to have the flashing installed at the time of construction or roof installation is minimal, especially when you compare it to the costly repairs of the damage that can occur. Typical metal flashing at your local home improvement store will cost you around $10-$15 and then the cost of installation. The cost to repair damage from lack of flashing can easily run into the $100’s or even $1000’s. As we have all heard, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.”

< Older Post

 Newer Post >
The side of an old white house with peeling paint and a window.

How North Carolina’s Humid Climate and Frequent Rainfall Contribute to Moisture Problems in your Home

May 20, 2025
North Carolina’s climate is a double-edged sword for homeowners. The state’s warm, humid environment and frequent rainfall create the perfect conditions for moisture-related issues. This combination of heat and humidity can lead to a range of problems that affect both the structural integrity and the livability of your home. The impact of humidity and rainfall North Carolina’s high humidity levels mean that the air often carries a significant amount of moisture. When combined with regular rainfall, this can lead to persistent dampness in and around your home. Over time, this excess moisture can seep into building materials, leading to several common issues.
A close up of a piece of wood in a room with a brick wall.

Fungi Isn't So Much Fun!

January 16, 2025
Crawlspaces are one trouble area that homeowners rarely enter, yet they are the cause of so many costly issues. Not only could a deteriorated crawlspace cost you tens of thousands of dollars in repairs, more importantly, they can cost your family their health. Pait Home Inspections of North Carolina can provide you with your maintenance inspection, new purchase inspection or pre-listing inspection and help prevent costly issues that may be discovered too late.
A very dark room with a wooden floor and a brick wall.

Floor System Repairs: From the Lens of a Home Inspector

October 3, 2024
Off grade, or homes with a crawlspace, can experience sagging or bouncy floor systems as the home settles. Many homeowners take the do-it-yourself approach and attempt to perform the repairs themselves. While this may save them money in the short term, these repairs are typically temporary, performed incorrectly and will require proper repair before they sell their home. As a home inspector , I run across improper repairs routinely. Dry stacked bricks or masonry CMU blocks are commonly used. Dry stacking bricks is one of the least appropriate forms of a temporary repair. Any lateral movement of settlement will cause the bricks to lean and fail. A proper concrete footing and mortar between each coarse of brick or block would give the appropriate compression and lateral support. Grout filling the CMU cell (filling them with concrete) is ideal. Typically, a 24″x24″x4″ concrete pad is used to support the masonry piers. Be sure to check with a local contractor or engineer to verify this is appropriate in your area.