ABSTRACT
A study involving observations of building cladding has shown that flashing plays an important role in controlling water flow over vertical faces. A literature survey revealed that the requirements for the drip portion of the metal flashing are at best inconsistent and at worst non-existent.
The investigation of construction practices revealed that the construction of the drip portion of the metal flashing varied between projects. The impact of such varied practices on the water shedding effectiveness of the flashing was determined by conducting an experimental study.
This paper describes the test method that was developed to study the water shedding effectiveness of metal flashing. It also discusses the variables that are considered to impact drip-edge performance. Results of the performance of different flashing configurations using the test method are presented.
Test results indicate that small variations in the geometry of the drip can have a significant impact on the water shedding characteristics of the flashing. This test method shows potential to be used as a standard for comparing the performance of drips used in modern cladding systems.
