Repair Siding: Use a Kick-Out Flashing to Stop Rot

Updated: Sep. 24, 2018

Install this special flashing to stop or prevent rot

kickout flashingFamily Handyman
Sidewalls, where a roof abuts a wall, are potential leak spots and rot spots. Good metal flashing prevents these problems, including a specially shaped “kick-flashing.”

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The side wall flashing problem and solution

Common rot spot

The intersection between a roof and a sidewall can be a rot problem waiting to happen. Even if the roof has been properly flashed against the sidewall (this one hasn’t), water can still run down the side of the house and behind the siding, causing rot.

The solution to rotting sidewalls is a small piece of bent metal called a kickout flashing (at roofing suppliers), which simply directs all that water away from the wall. Kickout flashing installs just like standard step flashing, except that half of the kickout flashing hangs over the edge of the roof.

Install the kickout flashing

Photo 1: Slip in the flashing

Lift the bottom shingle and slip in the kickout flashing. Nail it to the sidewall (or glue it if nailing isn’t possible).

Photo 2: Cover with cap flashing

If the kick-out and step flashing can’t tuck behind the siding, screw on cap flashing to cover it, then caulk along the top.

Inspect the sidewall around and underneath the fascia and inside the house for signs of moisture damage, and repair any rotted areas. Add felt, if needed, before nailing the new wood on, and prime the new wood on all four sides before installing it.

Install the kickout flashing underneath the first shingle (Photo 1). If the shingle already has flashing on it, the kickout flashing has to slip beneath it, and you’ll have to loosen or remove siding to do this. If the sidewall is stucco or solid wood like ours and you can’t open it to get flashing behind it, continue the step flashing to the peak of the roof, then cover the step flashing with cap flashing (Photo 2).

Required Tools for this Project

Have the necessary tools for this DIY project lined up before you start—you’ll save time and frustration.

  • Caulk gun
  • Drill/driver - cordless
  • Hammer
  • Pry bar
  • Tin snips

Required Materials for this Project

Avoid last-minute shopping trips by having all your materials ready ahead of time. Here’s a list.

  • Cap flashing
  • Exterior caulk
  • Kick-out flashing