Details, Details, Details: Moisture Intrusion on Decks

In the last entry I finished up my 4-part discussion about caulking.  Today I am going to discuss another critical area where moisture intrusion can occur: Decks.

When a deck is built it is typically attached to the structure of the home.  This can be done a number of different ways but one of the most common ways is to install a deck ledger board directly to the house.  On a Stucco or EIFS home, the ledger board is usually installed before the cladding system is installed. When the flashing is not installed, these areas have the potential to cause significant damage to the walls behind or below the attachment. Most of the time it is easy to determine if deck flashing has been installed.  If the flashing is installed, it typically can be seen on the underneath side of the deck where it is attached to the house.

If the flashing is not installed, it typically can be retrofitted in to prevent moisture intrusion.  This must be done by a qualified contractor that fully understands Stucco & EIF systems as if done incorrectly it can lead to more problems.

Other attachments that penetrate the Stucco or EIFS must also have proper flashing and sealants to prevent moisture intrusion.