CSLB C-39 Roofing ContractorFlashing, Ventilation and InsulationMedium

A technician installs step flashing along a shingle roof/sidewall intersection. Each individual step flashing piece must extend a minimum of how far up the wall and overlap the piece below it by how much?

  1. A2 inches up the wall, 1 inch overlap
  2. B6 inches up the wall, 3 inches overlap
  3. C8 inches up the wall, 4 inches overlap
  4. D4 inches up the wall, 2 inches overlap
Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: D. 4 inches up the wall, 2 inches overlap

Code requires each step flashing shingle to extend a minimum of 4 inches onto the wall surface and lap the piece below by at least 2 inches, ensuring continuous water shedding down the wall and onto the roof plane.

Why the other options are wrong

  • A. Insufficient height and overlap for reliable water shedding.
  • B. Exceeds code minimum; not the standard requirement.
  • C. Far exceeds the required minimums.

Step Flashing Dimensions

Step flashing pieces must rise at least 4 inches up the sidewall and lap the previous piece by at least 2 inches to prevent water bypass.

  • Installed with each course of shingles, not as one long strip.
  • Minimum 4-inch wall leg per code.
  • Minimum 2-inch overlap between successive pieces.

Memory trick: 'Four up, two over' keeps the water covered.

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