Keeping water out with dependable flashing

Most builders — particularly those involved in restorations — have seen firsthand how water damage can affect windows and the area surrounding them.

When rain or other moisture skids down the building envelope, it will find any available access—even a tiny hole—that will let it infiltrate the wall cavity. More often than not, this vulnerability is found at the window or door frame. Once moisture seeps inside, the area around the wall becomes fertile ground for rot and mold growth. Bad for the wall...and bad for any humans who live or work near it.

So, a critical component of any structure’s weather-resistive barrier system is sturdy flashing—a thin membrane that literally keeps water moving outward or downward, away from window and door joints or corners.

What to look for

Henry® Company delivers Building Confidence™ with a line of window and door flashings that effectively seal those penetrations, safeguarding the interior wall and keeping it dry. Here’s what we suggest you ask when you’re choosing a flashing product:

• Can it be installed at any time of year, regardless of temperatures?
• Is it durable enough to perform year-round in extremely hot or cold temperatures and harsh environments?
• Does it display aggressive adhesion?
• Can it resist UV rays for as long as a year?
• Does it seal seamlessly around nails and fasteners?
• Is it part of a total weather-resistive barrier system?

Flashing tape is one of the key components of an effective weatherization system. Selecting the right products for your project and installing them properly can help you prevent the leaks and callbacks that can ruin your reputation. Henry makes it easy with the Henry 1-2-3 Moisture Control System that's backed by an industry-leading 15-year warranty covering materials PLUS labor. Simply choose the barrier, flashing, and sealant that works best for your project. No matter the climate, cladding, construction type or code, Henry has a weatherization system to help you build with confidence. To learn more, Contact a Henry weatherization expert for advice and support on your next job.

Do it once, do it right

We’d like to share some flashing recommendations for the project design and construction phases, courtesy of The National Association of Builders¹:

Design Phase

• Ensure that flashing is integrated shingle-fashion with the WRB, window/door frames, and architectural elements (decorative trim), as required.
• Check that caulks, sealants, and adhesives are compatible with the WRB and windows and doors.
• Show all flashing details and installation sequences on plans, specifications, and scopes of work for subcontractors.

Construction Phase

• Inspect all flashing components during construction for proper shingling and integration with the WRB.
• Don’t rely on sealants or caulks as a substitute for flashing.
• Install all products in accordance with the manufacturer’s specifications, local building codes, or (where applicable) specifications established by the licensed design professional.

Resources

• ¹National Association of Builders. TechNote / Window & Door Flashing: Code Requirements & Best Practices
• Henry® Window & Door Flashings for residential and light commercial use