Preventing Leaks Where Your Chimney Meets the Roof
7016432677 • September 17, 2025
Proper Chimney Flashing and the Importance of a Chimney Cricket
When it comes to protecting your home from leaks, few areas are more vulnerable than where your roof meets the chimney. Water is relentless—it will find even the smallest opening. That’s why proper chimney flashing and, in some cases, a chimney cricket, are critical for keeping your roof watertight and your home safe.
What is Chimney Flashing?
Chimney flashing is the system of metal (often aluminum, galvanized steel, or copper) installed at the base of the chimney where it intersects with the roof. Its purpose is to create a water-tight seal between the chimney structure and the roofing materials.
A proper flashing system typically includes:
Step flashing
– Small pieces of metal that overlap with shingles and run up the side of the chimney.
Counter flashing
– Installed into the mortar joints of the chimney, covering the step flashing for a secure seal.
Base flashing
– Directs water away from the chimney base.
Without correctly installed flashing, water can seep into your attic, damage your roof decking, and even cause interior leaks. Over time, poorly installed or deteriorated flashing is one of the most common sources of roof leaks.
What is a Chimney Cricket?
A chimney cricket (also called a saddle) is a small, peaked structure built on the high side of a chimney. Its job is simple but important: to divert water, snow, and debris away from the chimney and down the roof.
Chimney crickets are especially important if:
- Your chimney is more than 30 inches wide.
- You live in an area with heavy rainfall or snow.
- You’ve noticed water pooling behind your chimney.
Without a cricket, water and snow can collect behind the chimney, putting stress on your flashing and increasing the chance of leaks.
Why These Details Matter
Proper chimney flashing and, when needed, a chimney cricket, are not just add-ons—they are essentials for protecting your home. When installed correctly, they:
- Extend the life of your roof.
- Prevent costly interior water damage.
- Reduce the risk of mold or rot around your chimney.
- Improve the overall performance of your roofing system.
Final Thoughts
Your chimney may not seem like the most vulnerable part of your roof, but it’s one of the first places water will try to find its way in. Whether you’re replacing your roof or repairing a leak, make sure your contractor addresses both chimney flashing and the potential need for a chimney cricket. A little extra attention now can save you from major repairs later.
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