How to replace weatherboards with metal flashing underneath?

[claire_t]

Hi!  I'm needing to replace some rotting weatherboards prior to painting, and have what I believe is some type of metal flashing between the bottom weatherboard and the skirt. The flashing is pretty warped in most cases and seems like it might actually be catching water where it's turned up- what's the best solution cost effective solution moving forward? Do I need to replace the flashing all around the house/ is it needed? Thanks in advance!

[Jason]

Hi @claire_t,

Great to see you make your first post on Workshop after being a member for a couple of years. Welcome aboard!

A couple of our resident Bunnings D.I.Y. experts are taking a well-earned break at the moment, so apologies that there might be a bit of a delay before one can get back to you. 

In the meantime, let me tag some other experienced community members to see if they can share their thoughts with you about this repair: @Brad, @Jewelleryrescue, @r23on.

Jason

[r23on]

Sorry no expectancies in the work

best of luck in your search 

[EricL]

Hello @claire_t 

I suspect that the upturned flashing may have caused your weatherboard to rot as it ended up catching the rain instead of guiding it away. In this particular instance, I suggest engaging the services of a registered builder so that the repair will be done to code and is compliant. Should any damages occur after the repair, you have proof that it was repaired by a registered trade.

It's probable that once the builder removes the rotted weatherboard, they will examine if the flashing has been installed correctly or if it needs replacing. This also becomes a good opportunity to inspect the timber studs behind the wall, you'll be able to tell if the studs have rotted due to water coming in and if it needs repair. I propose giving it a really good examination to make sure that there are no other points of entry for water to come in and ruin your timber wall and weatherboard.     

Let me call on our experienced members @Dave-1 and @Nailbag for their recommendations.

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric

[Nailbag]

Hi @claire_t 

I have had to replace many bottom and 2nd row weatherboards that have rotted. There are two common causes, one being as @EricL suggests with the flashing not doing its job and from rising damp.

A local carpenter or decent handyman would be able to replace the board and any others in the same condition. They will also be able to install new flashings. Just confirm that for any boards they cut that they prime paint the end. Not priming cut ends is a common cause for future rotting boards. Boards meeting corner ends and any plumbing opening should be silicone/gap filled.

Nailbag

[Dave-1]

Morning @claire_t 

I havnt had to go down this repair, I really wanted a weatherboard house but ending up with brick. I do like @Nailbag's suggestion and also @EricL's recomendations. I like doing ajob properly so you dont need to revisit it down the track.

Dave

[claire_t]

Great, thanks so much for all that information  👍. 

[claire_t]

Thanks for those tips, appreciate it!