homebuildy.com Kickout flashing directs water away from the roof-to-wall intersection, preventing leaks and water damage by channeling runoff into the gutter system efficiently. Apron flashing is installed at roof edges to shield vulnerable joints from water penetration, typically overlapping the roofing material to create a watertight seal. While both types protect against moisture intrusion, kickout flashing specifically manages roof runoff transitions, whereas apron flashing primarily defends against direct water entry at roof edges.
Table of Comparison
| Feature | Kickout Flashing | Apron Flashing |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Directs water away from wall to gutter at roof-wall intersections | Channels water from roof to sidewall to prevent leaks |
| Placement | Located at roof-to-wall junctions, near gutters | Installed where roof meets vertical walls or chimneys |
| Design | Flared edge kicking water outward into gutter | Flat or bent metal overlapping roof and wall surfaces |
| Material | Aluminum, galvanized steel, copper | Aluminum, galvanized steel, copper |
| Water Management | Prevents water intrusion at siding corners by redirecting flow | Prevents water from seeping under roofing or siding at joints |
| Installation Complexity | Moderate, requires precise angle to fit gutters | Simple to moderate, depends on wall and roof roof geometry |
| Common Use | Residential homes with gutters adjacent to walls | Roof-wall transitions, chimneys, dormers |
Introduction to Roof Flashing
Kickout flashing directs water away from roof-to-wall intersections, preventing leaks by guiding runoff into the gutter system. Apron flashing seals the intersection between a chimney or dormer and the roof surface, creating a waterproof barrier against water infiltration. Both types are essential in roof flashing systems to protect structural integrity and prevent water damage.
What is Kickout Flashing?
Kickout flashing is a specialized roofing component designed to direct water away from the roof-wall intersection to prevent moisture intrusion and damage. It is typically installed where the roof meets a vertical wall and projects outward to guide water into the gutter system, unlike apron flashing which seals roof-to-wall joints without the outward projection. Proper installation of kickout flashing is crucial for effective water management, reducing risks of leaks and structural damage in roofing systems.
What is Apron Flashing?
Apron flashing is a roofing component installed at the junction where a roof meets a vertical wall, designed to direct water away from the seam and prevent leaks. It is commonly made of metal sheets such as aluminum, copper, or galvanized steel, shaped to create a seal that channels runoff into the gutters. Unlike kickout flashing, which diverts water from the roof edge into the gutter, apron flashing covers and protects the wall-to-roof intersection, ensuring long-term durability and water resistance.
Key Differences Between Kickout and Apron Flashing
Kickout flashing directs water away from the wall and into the gutter, preventing water damage at roof-to-wall intersections, while apron flashing is installed beneath roofing materials to divert water onto the roof surface and away from the chimney or dormer base. Kickout flashing typically extends beyond the wall line to guide water directly into the gutter, whereas apron flashing runs up the wall and overlaps the roof, creating a watertight seal at vertical roof junctions. Understanding these key functional and positional differences helps ensure proper installation and protection against water infiltration in roofing systems.
Common Applications for Kickout Flashing
Kickout flashing is primarily used at the intersection of a roof and an exterior wall to direct water away from the wall and into the gutter, preventing water intrusion and damage. It is commonly found where roofing materials meet siding or brick veneer, especially at roof-to-wall transitions near downspouts. This flashing type is essential for managing water runoff effectively, reducing the risk of leaks and structural issues.
Typical Uses of Apron Flashing
Apron flashing is typically used where a sloped roof meets a vertical wall or chimney to prevent water infiltration by directing runoff away from the joint. It is installed under roofing materials on the uphill side and over the wall's base flashing to create a watertight seal. This type of flashing is essential for protecting vulnerable roof-to-wall intersections from leaks and water damage.
Installation Process: Kickout vs Apron Flashing
Kickout flashing is installed where a roof edge meets a vertical wall to direct water away from the siding, requiring precise integration with the gutter and wall wrap for optimal performance. Apron flashing sits over the roof shingles and against the wall base, overlapping the siding and roofing materials to create a watertight seal, emphasizing proper layering and sealing techniques. The installation of kickout flashing often demands more exact alignment to ensure water is channeled into the gutter, while apron flashing focuses on seamless overlaps to prevent water intrusion at wall-roof intersections.
Pros and Cons of Kickout Flashing
Kickout flashing directs water away from siding to a downspout or gutter, preventing water infiltration and costly damage, which makes it highly effective for protecting vulnerable roof-to-wall junctions. Its pros include superior water diversion and simpler installation compared to apron flashing, but it requires precise placement and maintenance to avoid clogs or water backup. Despite these challenges, kickout flashing significantly enhances roof durability and reduces the risk of wood rot and mold behind exterior walls.
Pros and Cons of Apron Flashing
Apron flashing offers superior water diversion by directing runoff away from vulnerable roof intersections, reducing the risk of leaks and water damage. Its installation complexity can be higher compared to kickout flashing, potentially increasing labor costs and requiring precise fitting to ensure maximum effectiveness. However, apron flashing provides enhanced long-term protection for chimneys, walls, and other protrusions, making it a durable solution in high-exposure areas.
Choosing the Right Flashing for Your Roof
Kickout flashing is specifically designed to direct water away from vulnerable wall intersections, preventing water intrusion at roof-to-wall junctions, while apron flashing serves as a protective barrier that channels water away from chimneys or skylights. Choosing the right flashing depends on the roof's architecture and the specific areas prone to water leakage, ensuring optimal protection and extending the lifespan of roofing materials. Proper installation of both kickout and apron flashing is critical to maintaining a watertight seal and avoiding costly water damage.
Kickout flashing vs apron flashing Infographic
