Christchurch-based company Flashman Flashing Systems Ltd recently launched the Flashman window and door flashing system.
The system, designed by co-directors Mike Anticich and Steve Hotton, is fabricated from extruded aluminium and fitted on site by approved Flashman installers.
Rigorously tested
Mr Anticich says the system was rigorously tested in various weathertightness booths, and was recently issued with a BRANZ appraisal for use with a wide range of claddings.
In addition, it is the only full flashing system for doors and windows in the country.
“This virtually bullet-proof window and door flashing system simply will not allow water to enter and thereby cause damage around critical openings on residential or low-rise commercial buildings,” he says.
The system was tested in 180km/h wind and rain, and was rated by BRANZ as suitable for Specific Engineered Design up to an Ultimate Limit State of 2.5Kpa.
The flashing suite comprises an external, heavy-duty aluminium sill, a combination cavity closure and head flashing with stop ends, a jamb flashing, and an internal window and door mitre soaker to catch any water from leaking windows and expel it to the exterior via the sill.
Mr Anticich says products in the Flashman stable are designed in accordance with the four principles of classic flashing design — deflection, drainage, drying and durability.
Adding a fifth ‘D’
“However, we’ve added a fifth D — ‘do-ability’. It’s vital to ensure that any flashing can be quickly and accurately fitted on site.
“We pay particular attention to junctions. We’ve found the only successful way of designing and fitting flashings was to make up full life-size models as they occur on site complete with the cladding system, and then test for weathertightness and ease of fitting,” he says.
This focus on do-ability has been the cornerstone on which the company was built. Mr Anticich says in 2003 he and Mr Hotton were determined to solve leaking window junctions, which account for around 50% of leaks in leaky buildings.
“Hundreds of hours of practical research and model building have eventuated in a ‘Rolls Royce’ flashing system which is extremely cost competitive,” Mr Anticich says.
“In particular, we steered clear of sealant as first line of defence against leaks, as we believe it’s often used inappropriately and incorrectly.
“We also focused 100% on deflecting the elements — then drainage, drying and durability largely take care of themselves,” he says.
Research into new solutions continues.
The company also offers a 45mm slim line sill that complements the traditional 90mm sill. It is used with flat sheet exterior cladding to produce “an ultra modern-looking weathertight defence against the elements”.
