Water damage in your chimney can spread and affect your roofing system. That’s why you should carry out preventive maintenance on a regular basis. The base of the chimney is usually susceptible to leaks, so you might want to watch out to see if water starts collecting in this area. And, you might want to invest in a roof cricket.
What Is a Roof Cricket?
A roof cricket, also called a “saddle”, is a ridge structure that’s typically located on the high side of a chimney or at the point where one roof meets another. Its main function is to divert water away from the chimney’s base and prevent leaks. Roof crickets are often covered with metal flashing or the same material as the roof.
Crickets are very useful in keeping the base of the chimney clear from leaves, sticks and other debris that could potentially build up over time. Water pooling in this area can also end up frozen during the winter months and put pressure on your roof.
Why Should You Consider Installing a Roof Cricket?
Leaks are a common problem with chimneys. Some of the signs that would help you spot this kind of issue are water stains on your ceiling. Of course, you would still need roofing contractors to confirm this for you.
If there’s a leak originating at the base of your chimney, your contractor will likely recommend installing a roof cricket and inspecting it every one or two years. During inspection, you should be particular about loose or missing flashing as well as cracks in the masonry. Small cracks are typically fixed with caulk while larger cracks need to be repointed.
Exterior Building Solutions has skilled workers who carry out residential and commercial roof installation. Call us at (314) 470-8783, or fill out our contact form to request a free consultation. We offer our expertise to homeowners in St. Louis, MO, and nearby areas.