Kickout Flashing
A specialty flashing piece installed at the bottom of a roof-to-wall intersection that redirects water away from the wall and into the gutter. Prevents water from running behind siding and causing hidden moisture damage.
What Is Kickout Flashing
Kickout flashing is a small but critical piece of metal installed at the bottom of a roof-to-wall junction that diverts water into the gutter instead of letting it cascade behind the siding. Without kickout flashing, water follows the step flashing line down the roof slope and then pours directly against the wall cladding at the termination point. Over time, this causes rot in the wall sheathing, mold growth in the wall cavity, and deteriorated insulation.
The damage from a missing kickout flashing is often invisible from the exterior until it becomes severe, making it one of the most commonly overlooked building code deficiencies in residential construction.
Why Kickout Flashing Matters in Claims
When a storm displaces or damages step flashing at a roof-to-wall intersection, the kickout flashing at the bottom of that run must also be inspected. If the original roof never had kickout flashing, a code upgrade line item in Xactimate may apply during the replacement. The IRC requires kickout flashing at these junctions, and most carriers cover code-required upgrades when triggered by a covered loss.
Installation and Inspection
Kickout flashing sits at the lowest step flashing piece and extends outward at an angle to direct water into the adjacent gutter. During a roof inspection, check whether the kickout piece is present, properly angled, and sealed. Document its presence or absence with a close-up photo, because missing kickout flashing on the original roof becomes relevant when scoping the replacement.
Frequently asked questions
Kickout flashing is a small metal piece installed where a roof slope ends at a sidewall. It angles outward to direct water into the gutter instead of allowing it to run down behind the siding. Without it, water infiltrates the wall cavity and causes rot, mold, and structural damage.
Yes. The International Residential Code (IRC) requires kickout flashing at roof-to-wall intersections where the roof edge directs water toward the wall. Many municipalities have adopted this requirement. Its absence is a code deficiency that supports a supplement request.
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