Understanding Kick-Out Diverters: Your First Line of Defense Against Water Damage

In today's world, where insurance claims for water damage are increasingly common, the importance of preventative measures cannot be overstated. One such measure is the installation of kick-out diverters, a small but mighty tool in the fight against water damage. This article will delve into the significance of kick-out diverters, their role in preventing water damage, and the consequences of not having them installed.

What are Kick-Out Diverters?

Kick-out diverters, also known as kick-out flashing diverters, are simple pieces of metal installed where the roof edge meets a wall. These diverters guide the flow of water into the gutter, away from the cladding and walls of the structure.

They are a critical component in every roof-to-wall connection and are essential in preventing water intrusion, which can lead to severe structural damage over time.

The Science Behind Kick-Out Diverters

The principle behind kick-out diverters is simple: control the flow of water and direct it away from potential damage points. Without these diverters, water runoff from the roof can seep into the siding and walls, leading to moisture build-up, mold growth, and eventual structural damage.

Water's destructive power comes from its ability to exploit even the smallest vulnerabilities in a building's defenses. Over time, unchecked water intrusion can lead to rot, deterioration, and costly repairs.

The Cost of Neglect

Without proper installation of kick-out diverters, the potential for water damage increases significantly. For instance, if water infiltrates the wall, it can damage the wall sheathing and framing, leading to costly repairs and potential health hazards like mold and mildew.

Moreover, these damages can result in hefty insurance claims. According to the Insurance Information Institute, water damage and freezing account for the second most frequent insurance claim, with an average claim cost of $10,234.

Tips for Proper Installation

To ensure the effectiveness of kick-out diverters, proper installation is crucial. Here are some tips for correct installation:

  1. Positioning: Install the diverter at the point where the roof and wall intersect, directing water into the gutter.

  2. Size: The diverter should extend at least 2 inches beyond the wall to effectively guide water away.

  3. Sealing: Seal the top edge of the diverter to prevent water from getting behind it.

  4. Inspection: Regularly inspect and maintain your diverters to ensure they're functioning correctly.

kick-out diverters play a pivotal role in preventing water damage and subsequent insurance claims. By understanding their significance and ensuring their proper installation and maintenance, you can protect your building from potential water damage and save on unnecessary repair costs.

Sources:

  1. Fine Homebuilding

  2. Building Science Corporation

  3. Family Handyman

  4. Insurance Information Institute

  5. Home Inspection Insider

Bill Simmons, AIC, CPI, CASA is the owner of L2 Insurance Consulting LLC, and he is an industry recognized expert relating to insurance claims and claim related damage. Bill has worked in every aspect of insurance claims from automobile liability and subrogation to property claim specialist, and he has worked both aspects of insurance claims, for carriers as a staff adjuster and as an independent adjuster. Bill also serves as an expert witness in the insurance claim legal process. Bill lives in Panama City, FL with his wife, Amanda and their two sons, Layton and Lucas.

Bill Simmons, AIC, CPI, CCI, CASA

Our entire goal and mission is to return our client’s home or commercial property to its pre-loss condition. We know that insurance carriers are under tremendous pressure to get claims handled quickly when disaster strikes. Our mission is to partner with our client’s desk adjusters to get them taken care of as quickly as possible to get them back to normal as quickly as possible.

We review and interpret insurance policies and coverages, and then apply those policies and coverages to the claim scenario at hand.

http://www.L2InsuranceConsulting.com
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