When you think about flashing your home, you may imagine a process that’s simple and straightforward. However, flashing your home is actually a complex process that requires the right tools and knowledge in order to succeed.
In this blog post, we will explore the reasons why you should flash your home and provide tips on how to do it safely and effectively. By following these guidelines, you can guarantee that your home will look its best and stand up to the test of time.
Why Flash Siding?
There are many benefits to flashing where siding meets concrete, including:
-Reduce the chance of water infiltration and corrosion
-Create a weather barrier
-Improve insulation value
-Make your home more energy efficient
If you’re thinking about flashing your home’s siding, here are four reasons why you should do it:
1) Reduce the chance of water infiltration and corrosion.
By flashing the joint between the siding and concrete, you create a weather barrier that will reduce the chances of water infiltrating through the joint and causing damage.
Additionally, by flashing this area, you create an airtight seal which will help protect your home from moisture damage.
2) Create a weather barrier.
By flashing your home’s siding/concrete joint, you create an effective weather barrier that can help reduce water infiltration and corrosion.
In severe climates or during times of heavy rain or snowfall, this type of protection is essential to protect your home from damage.
3) Improve insulation value
. Flashing between the siding and concrete can improve your insulation value by creating an airtight seal.
This in turn prevents heat loss from your home in cold weather conditions and allows heat to escape during hot weather periods.
4) Make your home more energy efficient
Flashing between the siding and concrete can also make your home more energy efficient because it creates an airtight seal that prevents heat loss in cold weather conditions and helps trap heat during hot weather periods
Materials You’ll Need
-Concrete reinforcement mesh
-Cordless drill with a 1/2″ bit
-Circular saw
-Stiles (4)
-Plywood or other hard surface
-Tape measure
-Level
Tips for a Successful Flash Siding Job
There are a few key tips to follow if you’re planning on flashing your home’s exterior with new siding:
1. Consult with an experienced contractor. A professional can help ensure that the flashing is done correctly and that any necessary permits are obtained.
2. Make sure the flashing is properly installed. Make sure corners and edges are sealed, and make sure there are no gaps or tears in the installation.
3. Keep an eye on weather conditions during the flashing process. If rain or snow accumulates on the newly installed siding, it can cause water infiltration and damage to the surface.
Cost of Flash Siding
Flash siding is one of the most popular exterior home improvement projects due to its low cost, easy installation, and the ability to change your appearance quickly.
The cost of installing flash siding typically ranges from $200-$1,000, depending on the size and style of the siding. The average lifespan of a Flash Siding system is around 20 years.
Here are some factors you should consider when selecting a Flash Siding system:
-Type of Material:
Flash siding is available in metal or plastic panels. Metal panels are more expensive but last longer. Plastic panels are cheaper but may not last as long.
-Style:
There are many styles of flash siding to choose from, including traditional gabled and hipped ends, funky Victorian profiles, and contemporary square or rectangular shapes.
-Installation Type:
You can have flash sided panels installed using a traditional method using nails and screws (which is what most homeowners use).
You can use an automated flashing system that uses hydraulic pressure to install the panels quickly and without damaging your roof or driveway.
Benefits
Here are benefits of flashing siding meets concrete:
Improve the look of your home
Flashing where siding meets concrete can improve the look of your home and protect it from weathering and fading.
Home energy efficient
It’s also a smart way to keep your home energy efficient by keeping the insulation in your walls and roof intact. Here are some reasons you should consider flashing your siding:
Protects Walls & Roof
When flashing is correctly done, it will protect both the exterior walls and roof from weathering and fading.
Keeps Energy Efficiency Up
Proper flashing will help to keep your home’s insulation intact, which can save you money on your monthly energy bills.
Looks Great
By flashing your siding, you can give your home a fresh new look that will be appreciated by everyone who sees it.
Disadvantages of Flash-Siding
Watertight Seal
Flash-siding is a technique used to seal the joint between a flash wall and concrete. It uses an epoxy resin that is sprayed onto the flashing and then cured with a heat Gun. This process creates a watertight seal between the two materials.
Its not permanent
The main disadvantage of this technique is that it is not permanent. The flashing will eventually rot and need to be replaced, which can be costly.
Additionally, if there is any moisture infiltration into the flashing, it can cause corrosion and failure of the sealant.
Conclusion
Flashing where siding meets concrete is a great way to add character and curb potential noise issues. It also gives your home that “lived-in” feeling, which can be hard to achieve with new construction.
In this article, I will show you step-by-step how to do it and why you should consider it for your next home improvement project.
