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What is Chimney Flashing
There are many different aspects of a chimney and all of them play important roles in how it performs. If one part of your chimney is damaged, completely broken or just plain missing, your home’s safety is at risk. Chimney flashing is no exception.
People often talk about tuckpointing, sweeping, liners and other chimney services but flashing often is overlooked. However, chimney flashing is an extremely important part of your chimney’s functionality.
What is Chimney Flashing?
Flashing is found at the point where your roof meets your chimney. It’s supposed to create a waterproof seal that protects your roof and chimney from moisture penetration.
When chimney flashing is properly installed, it can last over 30 years depending on factors such as where you live, the shape and size of your chimney and the materials used.
There are a few different types of chimney flashing:
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Aluminum – a very popular choice. Aluminum flashing is inexpensive and can be installed on any type of roof. It’s also resistant to rust.
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Steel – steel is also a very common material used for chimney flashing and provides excellent strength and anti-corrosive properties.
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Copper – lightweight, extremely durable and boosts curb appeal. Copper will never rust and can withstand any weather. However, copper is the most expensive option.
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Vinyl or PVC – should only be used in warm weather climates. Can crack under extreme weather conditions.
Parts of Chimney Flashing
There are a few parts that make up the entire chimney flashing. The first is the base or step flashing which is found under your roof’s shingles and bent upwards against your chimney’s exterior.
On top of the step flashing is the counter flashing. Counter flashing is bent down and installed in the mortar joints of your chimney. It’s purpose is to seal off the top of the base flashing.
For chimneys wider than 30″, there should be a saddle flashing installed. Saddle flashing creates a peak that allows water and snow to run off and prevents it from building up on your roof and chimney.
It’s important to make sure your chimney has all the proper flashing parts so that your home can stay free of water damage.
CRICKET OR SADDLE
A cricket or saddle is typical on a chimney and is required by many authorities when the chimney width is more than 30 inches. The cricket or saddle is a peak that deflects water and snow around the chimney, preventing it from accumulating against the top side of the chimney. The cricket usually is made of the same material as the roof sheathing (plywood or waferboard in modern construction). Where no cricket is used, the top flashing should extend at least one-sixth of the chimney’s width up the chimney (6 inches minimum) and should extend up the roof under the shingles to a height that is equal to the distance the other end of the flashing extends up the chimney (some say 18 inches).
All of the base flashings are fitted against, but not attached to the masonry.