I called this sidewall flashing(or lack of flashing) defective, roofer says is in compliance. I did not lift the shingle to take a look because of the sealant that was generously applied. There was no step flashing reveal to confirm the presence of step flashing. What do you guys think?
Roofer is wrong, wrong, wrong… No shingle manufacturer allows shingles to be caulked to siding. Of course, there are probably 10,000,000+ similar installations nationwide that aren’t leaking but that’s not your problem.
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I agree with Matt, it’s wrong, and I also would call it out as such. If it was properly flashed, there would be no reason to caulk it.
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^^^^^
Exactly.
It needs the step flashing to be proper, IMO
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This is where words matter.
Is it that the visible flashing is defective, or rather the installation (poor workmanship) of the visible flashing?
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Exactly, words do matter!
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I do not mince words either… Simply say “missing or incorrect step flashing or counter-flashing” and “this area is prone to leaks.” If there is actual step flashing underneath, then the counter-flashing is incorrect. The only correct installation of step flashing is where you see the steps. And, as others have indicated, there is no need for sealants.
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Did you look in the attic? My house and the many in this neighborhood have the step flashing behind the sidewall. The caulk is wrong.
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The roof was installed last month. I did looked in the attic and the place was dry but signs of prior leaks were there. Thanks for the reply.
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The step flashing is what to look for in the attic. On my roof (and all the others in this neighborhood) the step flashing is not visible from the outside. It is behind the short sidewall between the two roof levels and of course under the shingles. If not visible there (in the attic) it is missing and should be reported as such. The caulk is superfluous. It will not replace flashing and if the flashing is there and properly installed it is not needed.
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Poor shingle, sidewall clearance.
No visible step flashing.
Incomplete counter flashing. Shingles nailed on top of the sidewall counter flashing that partly covers the step flashing and shingles.
Write it up.
Exactly what is the defect here? 2018 IRC allows angle flashing. Manufacturer may require step flashing. But, who is the manufacturer? Caulk is not a defect as it may only be precautionary.
Words do matter and defect would not have been my adjective.
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