Kickout Flashing: A Small Detail That Saves Branson Homes From Big Trouble
In the world of home construction and inspection, some of the most damaging issues come from the smallest overlooked details. One of the most common — and costly — is the missing or improperly installed kickout flashing.
At Dragonstone Construction LLC, we’ve inspected countless homes throughout Branson, MO, from Pointe Royale to Sunset Cove, and one thing remains consistent: water damage is often preventable with proper flashing. As certified Branson home inspectors, we believe every homeowner should understand how this critical feature protects your castle from silent structural decay.
⚔️ What Is Kickout Flashing?
Kickout flashing, also called diverter flashing, is a specially formed piece of metal installed where a roof and exterior wall meet — particularly where rain runoff could pour behind siding. Its purpose? To "kick" water into the gutter and away from the home's cladding, where moisture damage can quickly turn into rot, mold, and major repair bills.
When correctly installed, kickout flashing is a powerful first line of defense against moisture intrusion in your building envelope.
🧱 Why Is Kickout Flashing Important in Modern Construction?
Modern homes, especially in places like Hollister and Branson, use tighter building wraps and more insulation than in decades past. While this improves energy efficiency, it also means moisture has fewer ways to escape — making kickout flashing more essential than ever.
Without it, water can run behind siding and become trapped. Over time, this creates:
Mold and mildew buildup
Rotting sheathing or framing
Soft siding and structural deterioration
Hidden wall cavity damage — often with no visible signs
🔍 What Home Inspectors in Branson Look For
As InterNACHI-certified professionals, our Branson home inspection reports include a thorough check of every area where flashing should be — especially kickouts.
Here’s what we frequently uncover during home inspections in subdivisions like The Highlands or Hummingbird Hills:
🚫 1. No Kickout Installed
Many homes — especially older builds — were constructed before kickout flashing became a widely recognized best practice. Builders either weren’t required to install them or didn’t know they were needed. This oversight often causes years of undetected water intrusion.
🧱 2. Improper Installation
Even when present, a kickout that’s:
Sealed poorly at the seams
Bent at the wrong angle (less than 110°)
Not integrated with roof and wall flashing
...can funnel water straight behind the siding. Our Branson home inspectors are trained to identify these faulty installs before the damage worsens.
🛠️ 3. Homeowner Modifications
We’ve seen it all: trimmed-down flashings, hidden diverters, or units cut flush with siding to “look better.”
Unfortunately, these cosmetic changes greatly reduce the effectiveness of kickout flashing. Even trimming it from 6" to 4" can compromise the entire water diversion system. This is one upgrade where looks shouldn't outweigh function.
🗺️ Where Is Kickout Flashing Required?
During our inspections in neighborhoods like Mill Creek or Patterson Duck Club, we pay special attention to these high-risk areas:
Where a roof meets a vertical wall, and that wall extends beyond the roof’s edge.
Where gutters end at the side of chimneys, directing runoff toward siding.
In these locations, missing or faulty kickout flashing almost guarantees future water damage.
🧠 Quick Tips: What Branson Homeowners Should Know
Kickout flashing should never be removed or shortened.
It should be installed before siding — but retrofits can be done by a skilled technician.
If you see vertical water stains, don’t ignore them. They could mean internal damage has already begun.
Proper kickout flashing can often prevent insurance claims and costly rot repairs.
🛡️ Final Fix: A Dragonstone Construction LLC Battle Report
At Dragonstone Construction LLC, we’re more than just handyman experts — we’re your first line of defense against hidden home damage. Whether you need a certified Branson home inspection or flashing repairs on your property in Emerald Point or Skyline, we combine construction knowledge with inspection precision.
Don’t let a missing kickout cost you thousands.
🧰 Most Asked Google FAQ – Kickout Flashing
Q: What is kickout flashing and why is it important?
A: Kickout flashing is a diverter that channels water from the roof into the gutter to protect walls from moisture damage. Without it, water can leak behind siding and lead to mold, rot, and hidden structural problems.
Q: Do I need kickout flashing on my home in Branson?
A: Yes, especially if your home has wall extensions past the roofline or chimneys near gutters. It’s critical in preventing water intrusion in Missouri’s rain-prone climate.
Q: Can kickout flashing be added after construction?
A: Absolutely. While it’s easier to install during initial construction, our team can retrofit kickouts to provide long-term protection for existing homes.
Q: How can I tell if kickout flashing is missing?
A: Signs include water stains on siding, soft spots, or damage near gutter ends. A professional home inspection in Branson will confirm the presence and condition of kickouts.
Q: Is kickout flashing required by code in Missouri?
A: While not always mandated, many local building codes and home inspectors recognize it as best practice. It’s highly recommended by industry professionals — and included in all our home inspection checks.
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