Through-Wall Flashing: Compatibility Sustainability and Performance

Craig Wetmore, CSI
President, York Manufacturing, Portland, ME

Craig Wetmore has over 20 years of experience in the building industry. He has been the President of York Manufacturing since 2009. He has a concentrated knowledge in through-wall flashings, moisture management and wall components. Craig is active in building community where he is a member of CSI, RCI, USGBC, ASTM and the ABAA. He serves as Secretary for the Maine CSI Chapter and is a member of ABAA’s Flashings and Terminations Committee. He is recognized nationally as an expert on through-wall flashings’ compatibility with air barriers and insulation products, lifecycle costs and installation of all different types of through-wall flashings. Craig and the York team are leaders in the devlopment of new products.

Summary

Through-wall flashing is a water shedding device to divert water from the cavity to the exterior of the building. To provide durable buildings, we need an informed position on the design attributes of flashing:

• Imperviousness to water
• Resistance to damage during construction—puncture, tear, sunlight, and fire
• Prevention of discoloration to exterior cladding
• Compatibility with adjoining adhesives and sealants (and everything else it contacts)
• Matching durability of flashing to anticipated life of the building

Topics

• Understand the purpose of through-wall flashing
• Performance criteria used to specify through-wall flashings
• Understand the attributes of commonly used flashing materials
• Understand compatibility issues between cavity wall components