National Home Inspector Practice Exam 2026 - Free Home Inspector Practice Questions and Study Guide

The recommended method for terminating a sloped roof with an EIFS (Exterior Insulation and Finish System) wall is to use kick-out flashing into the gutter. This technique is essential for directing water away from the wall and into the gutter, which helps prevent water intrusion behind the EIFS finish.

Kick-out flashing is designed to create a diversion at the point where the sloped roof meets the vertical wall, ensuring that any water that runs down the roof does not flow directly onto the wall. Instead, it is channeled into the gutter, reducing the risk of moisture buildup that could lead to potential damage or deterioration of the wall system. This is particularly important with EIFS, as improper water management can lead to serious issues like mold, rot, and structural damage.

While caulking options may provide a temporary sealing solution, they do not address the fundamental need for effective water diversion. Step flashing can also be used in conjunction with kick-out flashing; however, relying solely on it without incorporating kick-out flashing does not adequately manage the water drainage and can still allow for moisture problems around the intersection of the roof and wall. Therefore, using kick-out flashing is the most efficient and effective method to ensure proper water management at this junction.