Ideas to cover a gap.

[Michael Geile]

I'm replacing my hideous aluminum siding with LP Smartside and updating the rain protection at the window installations.

The base is OSB. Then I put a layer of Tyvek and seal all seams as per manufacturer instrusions. Then I install the LP Smartside to the instructions.

I made z-flashing over the windows to improve water shed. The trim manufacturer recommends a 1/4 inch gap left above the z-flashing; I'm guessing that is so when water runs over the flashing that it doesn't soak into the trim piece. I used Tyvek tape to seal the Tyvec to the flashing - make all water run down. However, after the trim is up, you can see the Tyvek printing through the 1/4 gap above the window - it's fairly noticeable.

Caulking the gap doesn't make sense - the whole purpose of the z-flashing is to let waster run to the outside and down the exterior. And I doubt if the Tyvek tape will take paint.

Any suggestions on how to cover the gap so the tape printing isn't visible while retaining the desired drainage?

 

[nealtw]

Sneak the blade in there and cut it.

 

[Michael Geile]

Sneak the blade in there and cut it.

That's one idea. But the tape is about 1.5 inches back and the flashing is thin aluminum - so the knife could cut it during surgery. But I could cut lightly, then get an edge to peal up, and use a needle-nose to try and pull it off. Could be a bit tedious, but a plausible approach.

 

[Gary]

Tape off the gap and spray matching paint into the gap. Rattle can paint should work if you mask it off well enough to not get overspray on the surface.

 

[Michael Geile]

That's a good idea - although I don't know if paint will adhere to the tape. But a minor variation is to use a black, permanent marker. I think I'll try the marker and if that doesn't work will use the paint.

Thanks to you both for the ideas!