Why Good Chimney Flashing Is Important 

You have probably heard about the importance of flashing on your roof and how it protects seams from leaks that could be detrimental to your home. Have you ever considered the importance of flashing around your chimney? Does your chimney have flashing? Here are several reasons why good chimney flashing is important for the long-term good of your home.

The Importance of Chimney Flashing Protecting Your Home from Water Damage

If you want your home to stand a long time, certain elements are essential for protecting its structure and ensuring its longevity. One such critical component is chimney flashing. While it may not be as well-known as shingles or gutters, chimney flashing is crucial in preventing water damage and maintaining the integrity of your roof’s structure. Here are some things that chimney flashing does for your roof.

What is Chimney Flashing?

Chimney flashing is a type of roofing material, usually made from galvanized steel, aluminum, or copper, designed to create a waterproof barrier between the chimney and the roof. This barrier is important because the area where the chimney meets the roof is particularly susceptible to leaks. Flashing involves several parts that seal this joint, preventing water from invading your home.

What Does Chimney Flashing Do?

The purpose of chimney flashing is to prevent water from entering the space where the chimney meets the roof. Without flashing, rainwater and melting snow can seep into the junction, leading to a number of problems, including:

• Water Damage- Water can permeate your roof, causing wood to rot, mold growth, and damage to insulation.
• Structural Issues- Over time, water infiltration can weaken the structural integrity of your roof and chimney, leading to expensive repairs.
• Interior Damage- Roof leaks around your chimney can cause water stains on ceilings and walls, paint and wallpaper to peel and flake off, and even electrical issues if water reaches wiring in your home’s walls.

What Kind of Roofing Needs Chimney Flashing?

Flashing is imperative for all types of homes with sloped roofs that have a chimney. Strong flashing around the chimney is necessary to prevent water infiltration, whether your roof is covered with asphalt shingles, metal roofing, slate, or tile.

What Happens to Sloped Roofs Without Chimney Flashing?

Here are some of the issues a home with a chimney and a sloped roof will face without a chimney flashing:

• Leaks and Water Damage- As we mentioned earlier, the most immediate and noticeable problem is water leaks, which can cause extensive damage to your home’s structure and interior.
• Increased Repair Costs- Ignoring the need for chimney flashing can lead to expensive repairs down the road, as water damage can spread and worsen over time.
• Decreased Property Value- Repeated water damage and structural issues can reduce your home’s value, making it less attractive to potential buyers.
• Health Hazards- Mold growth from water infiltration can pose serious health risks to you and your family. Mold is especially harmful to those with respiratory issues.

How is Chimney Flashing Installed?

Installing chimney flashing is a painstaking process that a qualified chimney sweep should carry out to ensure it is done correctly. The process involves several steps:

• Preparation- The area around the chimney is cleaned, and any old or damaged flashing is removed.
• Base Flashing- The first layer, known as the base flashing, is installed at the bottom of the chimney. This piece extends up the side of the chimney and under the roofing material.
• Step Flashing involves installing L-shaped pieces of metal that overlap each shingle and extend up the side of the chimney. Each piece is layered with the shingles to create a watertight barrier.
• Counter Flashing- Counter flashing is installed over the step flashing. This piece is embedded into the chimney’s mortar joints and bent down to cover the top of the step flashing.
• Sealing- Finally, the flashing edges are sealed with roofing cement or another suitable sealant to ensure a tight, waterproof fit.

To Sum Up

Chimney flashing is a fundamental component of any sloped roof with a chimney. It protects your home from water damage and extends the longevity of your roof.

Proper chimney flashing installation and maintenance can save you from costly repairs and health hazards associated with water infiltration and mold growth. If you suspect your chimney flashing is damaged or improperly installed, contact a chimney sweep right away to inspect it.

Let Hudson Valley Chimney Install Chimney Flashing on Your Roof

Call us in Hyde Park, Hopewell Junction, Staatsburg, Millbrook, Dover Plains, Pawling, Beekman, East Fishkill, Fishkill, Wappinger Falls, New Paltz, Stanfordville, or the greater Hudson Valley areas at 845-471-1071 or complete our simple contact form. We can install chimney flashing to protect your roof from leaks around your chimney.