How to Flash Against Aluminum Siding

The use of aluminum siding on American houses has declined in recent years, despite improvements in the material. Aluminum siding is now thicker, sturdier and less subject to damage from such things as hail. Vinyl siding has made inroads in the marketplace, however, because it usually is cheaper and can be as durable and attractive. Aluminum and vinyl siding are installed basically the same way, with panels that snap together on the bottom and fasten into J-channel and other securing strips on corners and edges.

Aluminum flashing strips
Special aluminum flashing for faucets and other home components
Aluminum nails
Hammer
Tin snips

Instructions

- 1
  Install aluminum flashing around all doors, windows and other openings in walls and at all corners. Do not mix galvanized steel flashing with aluminum siding. Put special flashing pieces around faucets, dryer vents, electrical outlets and other odd-shaped openings; these should also be made of aluminum.
- 2
  Fasten aluminum flashing with aluminum nails and a hammer into the window or door frames, corner studs or other house framing. Don't mix galvanized steel fasteners or flashing with aluminum as it will cause corrosion. Put flashing over house wrap or similar waterproofing membrane.
- 3
  Put bent metal strip flashing on corners and at intersections like wall-to-soffit connections under roof eaves. Cover any intersection of two building planes with aluminum flashing. Overlap flashing pieces by at least 2 inches in situations where more than one strip is required. Cut flashing where needed with tin snips. Place flashing before installing any starter strip, J-channel or similar connectors for aluminum siding.

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