No gap between the bottom of the cladding and a window/door head flashing

No gap between the bottom of the cladding and a window/door head flashing

Causes

There was no gap provided for during construction

Listed under: Exterior, cladding, doors, flashings, walls, windows, moisture

Cause

There was no gap provided for during construction

Repair

  • if the construction work was completed within the last 10 years, call the original builder back to make the repairs. Homeowners can take action for up to 10 years after building work is completed if implied warranties set out in the Building Act have not been met. These include requirements that work be carried out competently and with reasonable care and skill. Under Acceptable Solution E2/AS1 (Table 7 and Figure 71), a 5 mm anti-capillary gap is required to allow draining and drying from behind the cladding and to prevent the bottom of the cladding absorbing moisture. The absence of a gap could have a long-term impact on the durability and performance of the cladding
  • if the work was done more than 10 years ago or the builder is no longer around, consult an experienced registered building surveyor for advice on the options available
  • homeowners should not attempt to make repairs themselves unless they have the knowledge, skills, experience and tools to do the job properly. Inappropriate work here could impact the weathertightness of the home

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