Deck flashing is a metal barrier that keeps water out of the ledger board, preventing rot and mold. It’s now required by Minnesota code for new decks and renovations. Iron River Construction offers free inspections to check your deck’s flashing and ledger board condition.
A deck is a special addition to the home, it provides a space to enjoy the outdoors and bring together both family and friends. Although decks are considered a safe area to utilize year-round activities, many homeowners have decks that are both unsafe and are slowly eating away at their house. There are many components that are involved in creating a safe deck and the one that is most over-looked is the deck flashing.
Why is Deck Flashing Important?
The deck flashing creates a barrier on the ledger board that prevents water from entering into both the ledger board itself and into the home. There are three types of material that can be used for flashing: aluminum, stainless steel, or copper. These metal materials are bent to form a ‘Z’ that attaches to the house above the ledger board which wraps the edge of the board to below the decking boards.
In the past, deck flashing was not required for inspection purposes. However, many homeowners discovered that without deck flashing, they found that water penetrated the ledger board causing rot. Not only was the ledger board rotting out, but the house began to host mold around the area of the deck attachment. In these types of scenarios, the deck caused an expensive fix to the home. Today, deck flashing is required by Minnesota code when installing a new deck or renovating an old deck.
Deck Remediation Services
Homeowners that currently have a deck with no flashing should contact a contractor, such as Iron River Construction, to inspect and/or install new flashing to the ledger board. Upon inspection, the sales representative will determine the integrity of the ledger board. If the board is strong, then it can be wrapped with new flashing securing the board for many years to come. If the representative feels that the integrity of the board is compromised, then further reconstruction is recommended. This process can be quite extensive; however, it will be completed correctly and to Minnesota code if done by Iron River Construction.
If you feel that your deck is at risk of potential problems of any type, especially with the connection to the ledger board, please contact Iron River Construction to schedule a free inspection of your decking system. The appointment will take less than an hour of your time and it will provide you with assurance of the current state of your deck. Your deck is a wonderful extension of your home, please be confident that your decking system is strong enough to provide your family and friends a safe place to spend quality time together.
