Chimney Flashing and Crickets
In this section, we are referring to the bottom of your chimneys and chases where the roof touches the chimney. There is metal “flashing” around the bottom, preventing water from getting in your home. Even for pipe chimneys, you’ll want the flashing properly installed to avoid water coming in your home.
Chimney Flashing
The flashing at the bottom of the chimney has a pretty long life before needing repair. Chimney flashing is a waterproof layer that seals the gap between a chimney and a roof to prevent water, snow, and debris from entering the home. If left unflashed, this gap can lead to water damage, rot, mold, and other issues. When installed correctly, chimney flashing also channels water away from the chimney and towards the gutters.
Any chimney wider than 30” needs a Cricket, to avoid letting water pool up as well as debris from piling up which will rust out the flashing prematurely.
If you just had your roof re-done, you might want to call us out to inspect your chimney and dryer vents. Especially recently, we have found that roofers and contractors have been installing dryer vent caps incorrectly, and chimney flashing poorly, allowing water to come into the attic. Here is a picture of flashing for chimney pipe; replaced for an older unit.
Chimney Crickets
A Chimney Cricket is the pyramid on the home-peak side that directs the water to flow beside the chimney. Chimney Crickets are recommended for chimneys that are wider than 30”. The purpose for the chimney cricket is to prevent water from pooling up and rusting out the chimney flashing; leading to let water leak into the attic creating mold and other damages.
