1. Window and Door Flashing: Metal flashing is commonly installed around windows and doors and integrated directly into the stucco system. These thin metal sheets form a watertight seal, preventing water from entering wall cavities through these vulnerable openings.
2. Overlapping Design: Flashings are strategically layered beneath the stucco finish to channel water away from high-risk areas. Though concealed from view, they play a critical role in the system’s defense against water.
3. Built-In Moisture Barrier: Flashings act as a secondary moisture barrier. If water penetrates the stucco surface, flashing redirects it outward before it can reach the inner wall structure.
4. Damage Prevention: Without proper flashing, water can infiltrate behind the stucco—leading to mold growth, wood rot, interior leaks, and structural decay. Flashing helps stop these problems before they start.