Why Should I Be Concerned About Chimney Flashing?
You’ve probably heard the term “flashing” before with regards to roofs and chimneys. But what is it and what does it mean?
Chimney Leaks On Your Roof
Leaks around chimneys on your Cincinnati home’s roof can cause serious problems in the home. The water can travel down roof supports and into the areas behind the walls. The damage is often not recognized until it is too late. Toxic mold can grow in the attic and in the walls if the water continues to leak over time. This can turn into a serious issue.
Deterioration Of Chimney Flashing
The leaks are generally the result of flashing that has deteriorated. Metal flashing can rust or otherwise weaken from the elements. Caulking around the flashing becomes a problem because it can work itself loose over time. The homeowner likely cannot see these problems from the ground (and as you know, getting up on your roof can be dangerous). It is possible to detect leaks from the roof by going into the attic and looking for signs of leaks. Or, our roofing experts can inspect the chimney flashing and determine if its condition warrants repairing.
Construction Of Flashing
When we talk about flashing, we are referring to the sheet metal that prevents water from leaking at the intersection between the roof and the chimney. Proper flashing involves two steps. First, sections of L-shaped metal are inserted under the shingles and lapped up the chimney. A second layer of metal is inserted into the mortar joints of the chimney, and then it is folded down over the first layer of metal. The corners are protected by bending a metal piece around the corners. The flashing installation is then examined for areas that need to be sealed with a high-quality urethane caulk.
Flashing is very thin, and the metal used for it is usually galvanized steel. As the flashing is designed to direct the rainwater away from critical parts of your roof, we install it around features like vents, skylights, and chimneys.
Ideally, if the flashing has been installed correctly, this runoff water goes down the side of the flashing and toward the shingles, rather than toward the roof deck. Without this flashing, the water would just drip slowly into that little crevice between the roof and the wall. It might even just drip in your house.
Flashing that looks like it is in good condition may need new caulking. As mentioned above, caulking can deteriorate over time, and it surely will if it is not a high quality caulking material. Replacing the caulking requires that all of the old caulking be removed first (not a good idea to skip this step).
Roof Flashing Replacement
If the flashing must be replaced, it is important to use the right metal. 26 gauge galvanized steel is a good metal to use for flashing. It is a heavy duty metal and it will resist corrosion. It meets building codes, and it can be soldered easily. Galvanized metal flashing should be painted after it has been cleaned with a degreaser. Chimney flashing paint should be inspected every five years or so.
Aluminum is another flashing choice, and it should also be painted. Unlike galvanized steel, aluminum cannot be soldered easily. So, it is important to install aluminum with a tight fit everywhere there is a risk of water leaking. It should also be inspected every five years as well.
Although copper is attractive and easy to work with, it is not recommended for homes that do not have copper gutters and valley flashing since it adversely interacts with other metals. Copper is also expensive!
Free Estimates on Roof Flashing
The surest way to ensure that your flashing is holding up is to schedule a free roof inspection. Having roofing experts evaluating your flashing can resolve any questions or concerns you may have. Rather than risk water damage to your walls, get out in front of any potential problems.
Flashing And Roof Inspections
Our Cincinnati roofing experts can examine the chimney flashing on your home and recommend repairs if any are necessary. If you want a free roofing estimate in order to ensure your chimney flashing is still in good shape, contact Harper Siding and Roofing today!
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