Why Good Chimney Flashing Is Important
When you think of a chimney what parts come to mind? The brick? The fireplace? Perhaps you even think of the interior flue, but one crucial chimney component you likely don’t consider is the chimney flashing. The flashing plays a major role in waterproofing for both the chimney and roof of your home. So, let’s talk about the importance of quality flashing and the consequences of damaged or missing flashing.
What is Chimney Flashing?
As we mentioned above, chimney flashing is used to help waterproof the area where your roof and chimney meet. It is created using three components known as the base flashing, step flashing, and counterflashing.
Base flashing sits against the roofs surface and, as its name would suggest, is the base for the other two components. Step flashing comes next, step flashing is what we call the metal sheets that are placed along the roof and sides of the chimney in a layered sequence and its main purpose is to direct water away from the chimney. Lastly, counterflashing is the outermost layer and is typically attached or embedded into the chimney. This layer reinforces the security of the flashing and provides extra protection from moisture.
Major Benefits of Chimney Flashing
Waterproofing
The number one reason to have proper chimney flashing is its waterproofing abilities. Without proper flashing your chimney and roof are far more vulnerable water intrusions. Ignoring your leaky chimney can result in costly repairs in the future.
Protection for Your Roofing Materials
In addition to leaks, excess moisture can wreak havoc on the roofing materials themselves leaving you with wood rot and further damage.
Protection for Your Chimney
Water is a chimney’s worst enemy. Along with roof damage, pooling water can severely damage your brick and mortar leaving you with a weakened and deteriorating chimney structure. Flashing will help direct water away from the chimney structure preventing pooling and seeping water from damaging your chimney masonry.
A More Efficient Chimney
One of the lesser-known benefits of chimney flashing is it’s ability to help better insulate your chimney. With better insulation comes a more controlled draft and reduced heat loss from your fireplace, keeping you warm and cozy throughout the winter while still preventing extra heat from entering in the summer.
Lowered Costs in the Long Run
By stopping water damage in its tracks with proper chimney flashing you can save yourself both a headache and costly repairs down the line.
Signs that it’s Time to Replace or Repair Your Flashing
There are a few obvious signs that your flashing is damaged and a few that are maybe not so obvious.
Visible Damage & Water Stains
Visible damage is, of course, the clearest tell-tale sign that your flashing needs to be replaced or repaired. If you can see that the flashing has signs of wear and tear, it’s time to schedule an appointment with the pros.
Additionally, signs of chimney damage such as discoloration or water stains on you chimneys interior, interior walls, or ceiling could mean there is possibly damage to your chimney flashing.
Loose Flashing & Roof Damage
Some less noticeable signs of damaged flashing include loose flashing and roof material damage. Since these are things you cannot see from the ground, it’s important to keep up with annual inspections so that a chimney professional can safely access the space for any damaged or missing chimney components.
Call The Chimney Guys for Your Chimney Needs!
Chimney flashings are crucial components of your chimney system that help prevent damage from leaks and moisture. Investing time and effort into maintenance for your chimney flashing can save you from costly repairs down the road. Pataskala OH residents trust our certified experts to keep their chimney in top condition.
