It was always common practice (well if it was installed correctly) that sidewall flashings should be step flashings.

Well with the adoption of the 2012 IRC this is not the case anymore. You can now use a continuous flashing in these areas with asphalt shingle roofing. I had read this in an update memo and then recently had a conversation with one of the local municipal inspectors/building official.  He and I both lamented this change.

A continuous sidewall flashing on an asphalt roof was once considered a defect prior to this code adoption. This is no longer the case, at least from a code perspective. The illustration below show an acceptable installation per the new code.

(It will need a kick out flashing on the end if terminated in a wall line)

From the 2012 IRC this how the code section reads-

R905.2.8 Flashing.

Flashing for asphalt shingles shall comply with this section.

R905.2.8.3 Sidewall flashing. (Bold and underline is mine)

Base flashing against a vertical sidewall shall be continuous or step flashing and shall be a minimum of 4 inches (102 mm) in height and 4 inches (102 mm) in width and shall direct water away from the vertical sidewall onto the roof and/or into the gutter. Where siding is provided on the vertical sidewall, the vertical leg of the flashing shall be continuous under the siding. Where anchored masonry veneer is provided on the vertical sidewall, the base flashing shall be provided in accordance with this section and counterflashing shall be provided in accordance with Section R703.7.2.2. Where exterior plaster or adhered masonry veneer is provided on the vertical sidewall, the base flashing shall be provided in accordance with this section and Section R703.6.3.

So as home inspector we will need to be aware of this requirement in the new rules and make our recommendation accordingly.  

“If you think it's expensive to hire a professional to do the job, wait until you hire an amateur.”

Red Adair

NCW Home Inspections, LLC  is a Licensed Washington State Home Inspection service located in Wenatchee Washington serving Chelan County, Douglas County, Kittitas County, Okanogan County and Grant County Washington and the cities of Wenatchee, Leavenworth, Cashmere, Oroville, Cle Elum, East Wenatchee, Quincy and many more…  

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