The metal strip above a bedroom window slopes the wrong way — toward the wall instead of away from it
What we found
The head flashing — the metal strip that sits across the top of a window opening — was observed to be pitched back toward the wall rather than angled outward and downward. Water reaching that strip is directed toward the wall assembly instead of away from it.
Why it happens here
Head flashing is designed to act like a tiny roof over a window: it sheds water outward so moisture never gets a chance to work its way behind the exterior cladding — the outer layer of wall material. When the slope runs the wrong direction, the flashing works against that purpose and routes water toward the joint between the window frame and the wall instead of away from it.
What it means for you
A qualified contractor experienced in window flashing and exterior envelope — the system of layers that keeps a wall weather-tight — work should evaluate this and correct the pitch so water is directed away from the structure.
What to do
Have a contractor experienced in window flashing and exterior envelope work evaluate and correct the slope at this location.
How common is this
Inspectors routinely check the slope of head flashing as part of a window and door review, and correcting the pitch is a standard repair in exterior envelope work.
Getting the slope right on a small piece of metal is a straightforward fix that keeps the wall system behind it doing its job.
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