Preventing Rot: What is Flashing and Why is it Critical?
Flashing is impervious material used as a drip edge to prevent water from entering a structure. Proper flashing is crucial because when applied correctly, it prevents water from entering your home at all possible seams such as windows, band boards and the roof structure. Water intrusion can cause a host of problems, from wood rot and mold to structure failure. A classic example of the critical need for flashing is during the building of a deck connected to your home. If the break in siding where the deck structure meets the home is not properly flashed, water will be allowed to flow down the wall of the house. The ledger board, or the board bolted to your home, will then take on this water. At that point, the water can make its way into your home through the fastening points of the ledger board. On the inside of your home, this can cause mold to form on framing lumber that is not treated for outdoor exposure causing it to become soft or rot...