Guide
Sidewall step flashing: why each course must be counted on the estimate
Written by Ultra Power Construction. The credentials page states that this contractor is licensed and insured in New Jersey and lists GAF and Owens Corning programs. Updated 2026-09-28.
Glen Ridge, Montclair, and Maplewood houses often tuck a roof against a taller wall, dormer cheek, or chimney cheek. Those sidewalls fail when step flashing is reused or covered with tar. The decision is whether the estimate counts new step flashing per course or hides it under one “flashing” line.
- Step flashing is one piece per course
- Reuse is the common short cut
- What the counted line should say
Step flashing is one piece per course
Each shingle course along a sidewall needs its own L-shaped piece woven into the wall and roof. Counterflashing or siding then covers the vertical leg. Tar over old metal is not a substitute.
Reuse is the common short cut
Leaving rusty, short, or caulked step flashing under new shingles recreates the leak. Ask whether every piece is new and whether wall cladding will be lifted to receive it.
What the counted line should say
Require new step flashing along named walls, plus counterflashing or siding integration. A Montclair or Maplewood lump sum for “flashing” does not prove the sidewall was priced.