Flashing is the system of metal pieces that bridges the gap between a chimney and the roof around it. Done properly, it has two layers: base and step flashing woven into the shingles, and counter-flashing cut into the mortar joints of the chimney and bent down over the first layer. Water that runs down the brick hits the counter-flashing, drops onto the step flashing and is carried out onto the roof.
Flashing fails in predictable ways. Counter-flashing that was surface-mounted and caulked instead of let into the mortar pulls away as the sealant ages. Step flashing that was reused during a reroof no longer laps correctly. Metal corrodes, nails back out, and the mortar holding the counter-flashing erodes. Asset Roofing & Chimney repairs all of it, and because we are masons as well as roofers, we can grind and repoint the reglet joint rather than smearing sealant over it.
If you see a stain on the ceiling along one side of the chimney, lifted or rusted metal at the roofline, or dried caulk peeling away from the brick, flashing is the likely cause. It is one of the more affordable chimney repairs when caught early and one of the more expensive leaks when ignored.
What chimney flashing repair from Asset includes
- Assessment of base, step and counter-flashing and the mortar they sit in
- Removal of failed sealant and corroded or improperly installed metal
- New step and base flashing woven into the roofing
- Counter-flashing cut into the mortar joints and sealed, not surface-mounted
- Cricket construction behind wide chimneys where missing
- Shingle replacement around the chimney where roofing was disturbed
- Repointing of mortar joints that anchor the flashing
