Damaged, leaky chimney flashing can turn into a major problem if nothing is done about it. The Chimney Guys can solve flashing issues quickly and remove the risk of water damage to your Columbus, Ohio, chimney and home.
Chimney Flashing 101
Chimney flashing is typically made up of two metal panels that are attached to the chimney and roof, blocking the gap between the two. Most often, flashing has an L-shaped piece and a flat piece. When properly installed, flashing is secured tightly to the chimney and roof.
Reasons Chimney Flashings Leak
Anything that compromises the flashing’s seal can lead to water leaking down the exterior masonry below the roof and into adjacent parts of the home. Common causes of flashing leaks include:
- Rust
- Hail storms
- Cheap adhesive
- Lightning strikes
- Low-quality flashing material
- Shifting of the chimney or the roof
- Poor workmanship during the installation
- The effects of season after season of extreme temperatures
Solving Flashing Issues at Your Columbus Home
Chimney flashing is a simple component, yet it can lead to so many serious problems. The good news is, our technicians have the ability to resolve flashing issues quickly and prevent the headaches, hassles and expenses that come with major water damage.
In some cases, the solution for damaged flashing is to replace it. When we install new flashing, we use top-grade materials and ensure that the seal is solid and will hold up well in all kinds of weather. In cases of fairly minor damage, we use a product called FlashSeal, which is specially designed to stop water leaks in compromised flashing.
FlashSeal creates a permanent seal on bricks and roofing materials. The waterproof membrane that covers the flashing is flexible and won’t break with shifting. And it’s guaranteed for seven years.
Schedule a Chimney Inspection
If you’re having issues with your chimney flashing or any other part or component of your chimney system, your first move should be to schedule a proper inspection.
The Chimney Guys provides all three recognized levels of chimney inspection throughout the Columbus region. We’ll learn exactly what the problem is, why it’s happening, what it has affected, and how to resolve it.
Where chimney flashing is concerned, the solution is usually pretty simple, but ignoring it can turn into something a lot more complicated than most people realize.
Worst-Case Scenarios
Because you don’t normally see the area where the chimney and roof connect, a problem with chimney flashing can continue and worsen without you even knowing about it – at least not until there are obvious signs of a leak and water damage.
A leak through damaged flashing can lead to:
- Rotting in the materials of the roof, ceilings, walls and attic
- Deterioration of chimney masonry below the roofline
- Water stains on walls and ceilings
- Musty odors
- Mold growth in unseen areas behind walls
Certified Chimney Repair Services
The Chimney Guys is standing by to help with all your chimney needs, from flashing repair and licensed inspections to chimney sweeping, general chimney repairs and the complete installation of fireplaces and stoves.
Since 2004, we’ve served customers in Columbus OH, New Albany OH, Gahanna OH, Mount Vernon OH, Reynoldsburg OH, Blacklick OH, Heath OH, Powell OH, Grove City OH, Lancaster OH, Canal Winchester OH, and many other Ohio communities.
Reach us at (614) 446-1221, or get in touch with our contact form.
