How to Maintain Deck Flashing

Deck flashing protects the exterior of the home.

While the overall installation of flashing may require some generalized construction knowledge in terms of working with the installation tools, the maintenance of the flashing is a process that anyone can perform, regardless of their skill level with tools. Although regular maintenance isn’t required, you should still check the flashing a couple of times per year to ensure that everything is in top-notch shape so that you can protect your home from water damage, thus ensuring the longevity of your investment and keeping your home looking as beautiful as it did on the day it was built.

Things You'll Need

• Scrub brush
• Dish soap
• Utility knife
• Leftover caulking, or manufacturer recommended
• Socket set or screwdrivers

Instructions

1. Inspect the flashing a couple of times a year for the best results. You should always inspect it during the fall months when winter is approaching to ensure that the water from snow sitting on the deck for months cannot penetrate. The other time is in spring when the snow has melted away and you are preparing the deck for the summer months.

2. Clean the flashing before performing any maintenance. A light cleaner, such as dish soap, will suffice. You can use your garden hose to dampen the flashing and then use a scrub brush to clean any residual dirt, grime, mold or other buildup from the flashing around the deck. Rinse it off and allow it to dry before applying any necessary caulking.

3. Recaulk the flashing where necessary. Flashing is adhered in place with a combination of screws, nails and caulking, and if the caulking is cracked or otherwise failing, you need to replace it. Look for cracked areas and cut them out with a utility knife, then refill the voids. Use the caulking left over from the initial installation, or a manufacturer recommended type for the best results.

4. Tighten down any loose bolts or other fasteners that may have come loose with the weather and seasonal movement of the home. Use screwdrivers or a socket set, depending on the type of fasteners your deck flashing was installed with.

Tips & Warnings

• Caulking generally lasts for 15 to 20 years on the low end. If in doubt, or you don't have any leftover caulk and can't get hold of the manufacturer for a recommendation, use a silicone caulk.

Resources

• Decks: Flashing the Ledger Board
• Decks: Types of Deck Flashing
• Ace Hardware: Building Your Deck