What is the #1 Source of Roof Leaks you ask?
Last week was Ice Dams, this week it is all about Chim chiminey Chim chiminey Chim chim cher-ee….Chimney Flashing. If you ask Dave from Marblehead Chimney you will hear the same stories we hear. If you are like our customers and have a leaky roof, the source of the leaks is usually around your chimney. One of the most crucial steps to the integrity of a roofing system is proper chimney flashing.
Of course there are other causes such as rotten roof boards, but the majority of roof leaks we see stem around the chimney. The flashing either failed or someone installed it incorrectly, causing leaks and damage to the roof decking. With the chimney being the largest protrusion, it is critical that you have proper installation methods performed by a Master Elite roofing contractor to ensure the integrity for the lifetime of your roof. By the way, you should always have a lifetime warranty on your roof.
So think of this analogy. You have a flat surface then you have protrusions piercing through such as pluming ventilation pipes, bathroom vents and you guessed it chimneys. Of course now the surface is vulnerable-junior high science class here. So, you must make sure that the largest of them all-your chimney- is protecting your supposed waterproof barrier to your home from water infiltration.
POP QUIZ TIME: What is flashing and why do we need it installed properly?
Proper flashing seals the void between the chimney and the roof deck. Chimneys being the largest of all protrusions lead to the most problems we see with water infiltration and leaks thus causing much damage to the home. Since chimneys are made of brick or stone and not smooth like a vent or pipe, it makes them harder to seal because of their rough surface. Therefore, it is harder to create an effective watertight barrier with the flashing job.
What You Need To Know:
Is your roof leaking? Failed chimney flashing could be the reason. You bet—it’s a common issue in older homes. Many New England homes were built before modern flashing systems existed, especially those from the early 1900s. Some roofing contractors still use outdated, one-piece flashing systems because they’re cheaper and easier to install. These inferior systems don’t offer long-term protection and often lead to costly repairs. When getting a roof estimate, ask about the chimney flashing type. You should always request at least a two-part system for better durability. Stay informed and know what questions to ask before signing a contract. To learn more about choosing the right contractor, download our free Consumer Standards Guide here. Always address every symptom before attempting to solve the problem. Being proactive now can save you time and money later.
Bonus Question: Worth 5 Extra Points on your quiz… and a $10.00 Starbucks Card or a Mary Poppins DVD for the first person who answers correctly in the comments section below. I will email the winner!
What ancient British folklore was attributed to chimney sweeps?
