Deck Siding Acting As Flashing

A simple metal or plastic cap flashing is probably adequate to flash a deck ledger in a dry climate while the 3 layer system described in this video is suitable for high rainfall and damp climates.

Deck siding acting as flashing.

Then slip flashing behind the siding covering the top edge of the ledger. Start by making an outline on the siding where you want to position the ledger board. The level of water resistance you need to achieve when flashing a deck ledger will depend on the rainfall and how dry your climate generally is. If nails are in the way pull them out.

Cover the top edge of the vertical leg of the flashing with waterproof tar paper or house wrap. That should pop the nail head out far enough so you can pry it out. 4 leave a gap of 1 inch or more between the the top of the ledger and the edge of the vinyl siding. Snap a chalk line cut out the siding and tack up the ledger board.

Keep in mind the bottom of the upper siding should be at least two inches above the flashing or the decking that s near the house. Cut it for flashing and you structurally damage the wall. In those cases often the flashing is placed to the t 111 and then counter flashed and sealed. Relying on sealed counter flashing isn t ideal but neither is marrying your cladding to your braced walls in one product.

Installing z flashing to prevent water from seeping behind the deck s ledger board and rotting the board and the siding the flashing must cover the top of the ledger board and bend over the edge. This flashing needs to extend up at least 2 or 3 inches up under the siding above the deck. Never put horizontal siding in direct contact with any horizontal material. Often the t 111 is acting as the braced wall panel.

Make the outline large enough to include space for the deck boards on top the ledger and any trim boards on the sides. You may need to pry out siding first.