Chimney flashing or flashing, in general, serves a significant purpose in the overall job of your roof. Knowing what flashing is used for and when it’s necessary to repair it will help you prolong the life of your roof. At the same time, doing so will help you spot issues that may occur in the future.
If there is a moment when you need chimney flashing repairs, contact Fresh Air Duct Cleaning. Our team can perform a variety of chimney repairs alongside a sweep or inspection. No matter what you need for your chimney, our comprehensive chimney services can fulfill your request.
What is Chimney Flashing?
Chimney flashing is no different from standard roof flashing. The only difference is it found where the chimney and your roof meet. In general, flashing is material that covers up joints, intersections, and seams of your roof. Flashing can be found alongside elevation changes, seams of pipes or vents, and of course, the chimney.
Flashing may be made from metal, plastic, or composite materials like your asphalt shingles. The flashing on your roof will primarily be determined by the type of roof you have. However, that is not always a good indicator.
The Purpose of Flashing
Flashing protects the weakest part of your roof, the joints or seams. Seams are capable of allowing water to enter your home. Subsequently, that water can damage materials inside your home and prompt the growth of mold or mildew. It is up to the flashing to keep that water from entering your home.
If at any point your flashing is compromised, a leak can appear within the home. If you ever experience a roof leak, your flashing may be to blame. Flashing around your chimney is just as important as any other flashing on your roof. Chimney flashing keeps water from entering where your chimney sticks out of the roof.
When are Chimney Flashing Repairs Necessary?
There are moments when repairing or replacing chimney flashing is appropriate. Obviously, if you have a leak in the house, checking your chimney flashing alongside the rest of the roof is beneficial. You should also check your chimney flashing anytime you perform maintenance on the roof. With proper care, your flashing and roof can last longer than average.
There are signs you can look for when determining if your chimney flashing needs replaced or repaired. These signs include:
- rusted flashing
- cracked flashing
- loose flashing
- missing flashing
- missing screws or fasteners
Whenever you notice any of these issues, you must have a professional perform the flashing repairs. Without the right knowledge and experience, you may do more harm in repairing the flashing. Enlist a professional to complete the repairs for you.
Why is Chimney Flashing Important?
Flashing around your chimney is as important as any other flashing on your roof. It keeps water from entering your home through the seams. At the same time, it prolongs the life of your chimney. Brick and mortar deteriorate faster when exposed to water. When moisture enters your home through chimney flashing, your chimney may experience rapid deterioration and, eventually, structural damage.
Hire a Professional
Whenever you need chimney flashing repairs or installations made, hire a professional like Fresh Air Duct Cleaning. Our team has years of experience with flashing and other parts of the chimney. Our comprehensive chimney services are perfect for when you want to prepare your chimney for the winter.
Have our team inspect it and perform a chimney sweeping afterward. By doing so, you will prolong the life of your chimney and increase the safety of your home. Give us a call today at (214) 272-9715 for a free estimate over the phone.