How to Fix Leaking Roof Flashing on a Chimney

There are several different causes of roof leaks around chimneys, including poor flashing on the roof and porous masonry from spading bricks. Some chimneys may have multiple problems that can lead to leaks. Understanding the potential causes of your chimney’s leakage can enable you to choose chimney repair services more wisely, potentially saving you money.

Homes that have chimneys require more upkeep than those that don’t. You might need to fix your chimney flashing if you’ve lately experienced a chimney leak or observed rust spots inside your firebox. A type of roof flashing called chimney flashing forms a waterproof seal to guard your chimney and roof from leaks and water damage. Step flashing, counter flashing, sometimes known as cap flashing, and base flashing are the three main components of chimney flashing, which essentially serve as weatherstripping for your chimney.

Rainwater can leak into homes when the roof flashing around chimneys separates from the brick. A leaky chimney can lead to a variety of issues that require expensive repairs. We frequently discover that poor flashing is the cause of chimney leaks when we respond to service calls. The flashing is a sheet of metal that is installed to make sure that the connection between the chimney and roof is watertight, however, flashing ultimately loses its usefulness. Getting an annual Local Chimney Cleaning Kirkwood inspection is the best approach to prevent moisture problems brought on by flashing; every component of the chimney system is meticulously inspected.

Flashing typically consists of two metal panel components. The first component, called the step or base flashing, is put beneath a shingle and is bent upward against the brick chimney. We frequently discover holes and cracks when we analyze the base flashing’s L-shaped parts. Counter flashing is the name of the second element of flashing. This piece caps or closes off the top of the step flashing by being bent down over it, cutting back, and being implanted into a chimney mortar joint at the top.

Flashing installation can be difficult; corners in particular are prone to failure. Even with excellent installation, there is a small area where premium urethane caulking should be used to finish the procedure’ waterproofing component. If leaks around flashing aren’t allowed to persist for too long, reapplying caulk can be all that’s required. Caulk, on the other hand, won’t work to solve the issue if the flashing materials are not correctly overlapped.

Although they frequently go undetected at first, leaks near the chimney can seriously harm its structural integrity. Wood rot, roof damage, attic damage, and possibly ceiling drywall damage result from moisture getting into the roofing, attic, and possibly ceiling sections. Every six to twelve months, you should check the chimney area in the attic to make sure there are no leaks.

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