Amazing Advice for Shingle Roofs
Correctly Flashing Around Chimneys
Despite their aesthetic and practical value, chimneys often lead to roof leaks because of
improperly constructed or maintained flashing. Water damage inside a property is a common
symptom of neglected chimney flashing, according to New Standard Roofing Orlando. That’s
why we’re going over some basic flashing information with you: what it is, how to install it,
and when to contact local roofers in Orlando for assistance.
Why Is Chimney Flashing Necessary, and What Is It?
Flashing is a thin metal or plastic sheet that is typically attached to roof intersections, such
as the chimney cap. The primary purpose of flashing is to contain water. The flashing around
your chimney Chimney flashing is the first line of protection against water damage during
Florida’s typical wet and stormy weather.
Inadequate flashing allows water to penetrate the roof, insulation, ceilings, and walls, leading
to costly structural damage, rot, and mold growth.
Aspects Crucial to Chimney Flashing
Many parts make up an effective flashing system:
Step flashing is fastened to the chimney at the point where it meets the sloping roof. One
piece of flashing “steps up” the chimney for every layer of shingles.
To prevent water from entering the chimney, the counter flashing is embedded inside the
structure and overlaps the step flashing.
A short, peaked structure that is located behind a wide chimney (usually 30″ or wider) and is
used to channel water around the chimney is called a cricket or saddle.
To keep water away from chimney seams, base flashing runs along the chimney’s base and
collaborates with step flashing.
Amazing Suggestions for Lighting Up Chimneys
Here are some tried-and-true methods passed down from seasoned Florida roofers to keep
water out of your chimney and your roof in good shape.
Use materials that are resistant to rust.
Orlando is one of many humid places where galvanized steel can rust. If your home is
located near the coast, we highly recommend aluminum, copper, or stainless steel.
Second, set up the counter and step flashing.
While some contractors may omit one step, it is essential that they both be present for the
barrier to be fully effective. Contact a reliable Orlando roofing specialist to assess your home
if you find that it just has one type.
Remember the Cricket
You absolutely must have a chimney cricket if the width of your chimney exceeds thirty
inches. The risk of leaks and decay increases when water collects behind the chimney in its
absence.
Apply a Good Roof Cement or Caulk Sealant.
Applying a UV-resistant sealer to gaps is a good idea even if the metal flashing is neatly
fitted. Do it yourself caulks from big-box stores won’t hold up in the Florida sun.
Check Once a Year
How can one ensure that their chimney will not leak? Get a head start. Before and after
hurricane season, make sure to schedule a roof inspection at least once a year.
Indicators That It’s Time to Fix Your Chimney Flashing
Notify your Orlando roofing company immediately if you observe any of the following:
Spots on the ceiling around your chimney caused by water
Flashing that is rusted, twisted, or missing
Debris in the area surrounding the base of the chimney
The shingles around the chimney are rising or curving.
Musty smells emanating from your home’s attic or fireplace
Experts in fixing and replacing flashing.
Skill and accuracy are required when repairing chimney flashing. Our flashing installation
services at New Standard Roofing Orlando are designed to withstand the most severe
storms that Florida has to offer.
Near you, our professional team of roofers in Florida can:
Find any damage or improperly installed flashing and fix it.
Use long-lasting materials to replace the flashing on the steps and counters.
Waterproof your chimney and install crickets made to order.
Use roof cement and high-performance caulks to reseal the flashing.
Make Sure Your House Is Safe From Future Storms
Roofs can be saved from damage caused by improper chimney flashing. If you have seen a
leak or would just like some assurance before hurricane season, the professionals at
New Standard Roofing Orlando can assist you.
Schedule a roof inspection with local, professional roofers in Orlando.
We’ll check the flashing around your chimney to make sure it’s storm-ready.