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I get frequent calls from shoppers about leaks round their chimneys. Most of the time, the perpetrator is the roof flashing — sheet metallic that retains the intersection of the chimney and the roof watertight. When water will get behind defective flashing, it could actually injury the roof sheathing, framing, and the ceiling under, so it must be handled instantly.
Earlier than I get began, right here’s a fast video on repairing flashing round a chimney.
Flashing Design and Supplies
Correct flashing round a chimney contains two layers. The primary known as step flashing — sections of L-shaped sheet metallic are woven into the shingle programs and lapped up the facet of the chimney. Subsequent comes the counterflashing — a second layer of metallic is embedded within the chimney mortar joints and folded all the way down to cowl the highest of the step flashing.
The corners are particularly weak on chimney flashing. The sheet metallic have to be fastidiously minimize and bent across the corners, usually leaving a small hole that ought to be sealed with a high-quality urethane caulk. Over time, this caulk can dry out and detach, permitting water to seep in behind the flashing.
There are a number of forms of metallic used for chimney flashing, relying on local weather:
These are frequent in most climates. These metals maintain up properly in warmth, humidity, and reasonable chilly.
Copper is the longest-lasting possibility and the most costly, so it’s largely seen in high-end jobs or historic properties. Copper gives the benefit of soldered corners for a watertight seal.
Leak flashing is typically used as a result of it’s pliable and easy to bend into form. Nonetheless, lead may be poisonous if not dealt with correctly.
Chrome steel can be fairly sturdy, though costlier than aluminum or galvanized metal. The benefit is superb corrosion resistance.
Irrespective of the fabric, correct layering method is essential to maintain water out of the weak chimney–roof intersection.
Inspections and Upkeep
As a result of chimneys have so many potential leak factors, I like to recommend inspecting the flashing and masonry a minimum of each different yr. Search for the next bother indicators:
- Free, curled, or lacking sections of flashing
- Cracks or lacking mortar within the brickwork that may permit moisture penetration
- Indicators of water injury, comparable to rotted sheathing underneath the shingles
- Rust stains on the chimney or roof
Cracks within the masonry may be repaired with versatile caulking designed for the aim. I additionally recommend resealing brick chimneys each few years utilizing a silicone-based water repellent utilized with a backyard sprayer. This helps stop moisture from seeping into porous brick.
For indifferent flashing, the answer is eradicating and changing the affected sections or presumably your entire flashing system if the injury is intensive. I usually favor to exchange your entire system, even when just one half is dangerous. It provides the shopper extra peace of thoughts and permits me to correctly assure my work.
Chimneys on the backside of a roof slope ought to have a cricket — a small sloped roof construction that diverts water away from the chimney’s upslope facet. The cricket ought to be utterly lined with roofing membrane earlier than shingles are put in. This provides one other layer of leak safety.
Hiring a Skilled Roofer
Whereas minor chimney flashing repairs are doable for a useful house owner, intensive points are finest left to an expert roofer. They’ve the abilities, tools, and expertise to diagnose and repair chimney leaks for the long term.
Earlier than hiring one, get a number of quotes and examine references to search out reliable native roofing contractors. Be certain that they totally clarify the required repairs and supply an in depth written estimate.
So, Is Leak-Proof Flashing Round Your Chimney Necessary?
Correct flashing is essential for holding the weak chimney–roof intersection watertight. Deteriorated, improperly put in, or lacking flashing can permit torrents of water into your attic and partitions, resulting in costly structural and inside injury. Common inspections and immediate repairs of any points are key to avoiding main chimney leak complications down the highway. Don’t ignore early warning indicators like rust stains or broken shingles across the chimney. Addressing issues early is all the time the wisest and most cost-effective strategy.
FAQs About Chimney Flashing Repairs
How usually ought to chimney flashing get replaced?
With high quality supplies and workmanship, flashing ought to final 15 to 50 years, relying on the fabric. All flashing can be assessed by a contractor when your own home is re-roofed. They’ll inform you if it wants changing.
Does my roofer want a mason to do chimney flashing repairs?
If the chimney masonry is undamaged, a roofer can deal with flashing repairs solo. But when the brickwork wants repointing or repairs, a mason must restore it earlier than the roofers can flash it.
If I am getting a brand new roof — ought to the flashing get replaced, too?
It will depend on the state of the flashing, which can be assessed by the roofing contractor. In some circumstances, the flashing needs to be changed. In others, it doesn’t. I’d belief the opinion of the contractor you rent.
Can I seal gaps in flashing briefly to cease leaks?
You’ll be able to attempt sealing small gaps with roofing cement as a short lived repair. Nevertheless it possible received’t maintain for lengthy, so full flashing repairs ought to nonetheless be completed as quickly as attainable.
Ought to I paint my flashing to assist protect it?
Most flashing comes painted with a protecting coating, so portray it your self isn’t often obligatory. For naked metallic flashing, you’ll be able to if you wish to, however you don’t have to. Metals like lead or galvanized metal left naked for flashing are naturally weather-resistant.
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