Proper flashing is key to preventing water damage and extending the life of your roof.
At GMT Home Services, we know your chimney is a hidden danger. Often, issues with flashing go unnoticed until water has seeped deep into your under-roofing. Then, you have wood rot and drywall damage. Compromised flashing allows water to get into your attic or ceiling, and you’ll have costly and extensive repairs down the line.
Over time, water can also weaken the mortar joints between the bricks of your fireplace and chimney and cause structural damage. That’s why we stress the importance of regular inspections and timely repairs. Trust GMT Home Services to protect your home from water damage and preserve it for years to come.
Chimneys are a source of leaks, and the sheet metal flashing around them is usually the culprit. You don’t have to be an expert to spot the problem. Water-stained ceilings or moisture around your chimney are clear signs of an issue. If your metal chimney flashing is missing, rusted, coming loose or covered in roofing tar—a temporary fix that often hides bigger problems—it’s time to install new flashing.
We carefully remove the old flashing to prevent injuries from sharp metal pieces. When installing new flashing, we recommend installing new shingles, too, so it will last as long as your new roof, usually 25-40 years. Chimney flashing can be made of vinyl, aluminum, copper or galvanized steel, depending on your roof and chimney type and local climate.
At GMT Home Services, we know chimney flashing is key to protecting your home from water damage. Repairing or replacing chimney flashing is a complex task that requires expertise, precision and care. Harsh weather conditions can damage your chimney flashing, and regular inspections can detect the problem early. If your flashing is warped, flared or deteriorated, it’s time to replace it, especially if you’re already planning to repair or replace your shingles.
Installing new chimney flashing involves precise measurements, cutting and fitting. This involves embedding a cap flashing into the chimney’s mortar joints to create a secure, watertight seal. When it comes to protecting your home from water damage and preserving your chimney and roof, trust GMT Home Services to get it right.
Chimney flashing is part of your roof’s defense system. It’s a waterproof barrier that protects your chimney and roof from water damage. It’s like weather stripping for your chimney and consists of three pieces: step flashing, counter flashing (or cap flashing) and base flashing.
Step Flashing is an L-shaped metal piece that fits under the roofing or asphalt shingles and runs along the brick of your masonry brick chimney, directing water away from it.
Counter Flashing (Cap Flashing): This L-shaped metal piece covers the step flashing and is embedded into a groove cut into the chimney brickwork, adding extra protection against water penetration.
Base Flashing: Located at the corner of the joint where the chimney meets the corner of the roof, base flashing creates a watertight seal to prevent water from entering your home.
With caulk, these pieces create a durable waterproof seal. But if your caulk or chimney flashing fails, it can cause big problems.
Chimney flashing can last up to 30 years when installed properly. However, its lifespan depends on many factors, including the location, shape, and size of your house and chimney, and the materials used to install flashing. Knowing how old your house is is key to tracking the life of your chimney and its components.
Signs it might be time to repair your chimney flashing:
Gaps in the caulk around the flashing can be resealed with roofing cement to address leaks and ensure a proper seal between the flashing and the chimney structure. At GMT Home Services, we can help you maintain, repair, and protect your home through chimney flashing inspections, repairs, and replacements. Contact us today to keep your chimney and roof secure and watertight.
At GMT Home Services, we know that damaged or worn-out chimney flashing can compromise your home’s protection. If your flashing is warped, flared, or showing signs of wear and tear, it may be beyond repair. Harsh weather can wear down the flashing over time, so regular inspections are key. These inspections allow us to determine when to replace or repair flashing. If you’re already repairing or replacing shingles, it’s the perfect time to check and replace your chimney flashing to ensure long-term protection.
Installing new chimney flashing is a specialized job that requires expertise and confidence working at heights. At GMT Home Services, we take safety seriously and use the proper equipment, like personal fall arrest systems and secure extension ladders. We start by measuring your chimney and selecting the right materials, such as step and base flashing material. Our experts then cut the flashing to match the roof angle and bend it around the chimney to ensure a perfect fit and watertight seal. Trust us to protect your home with professional chimney flashing installation.
Chimney flashing is a roofing component that creates a watertight seal where the chimney meets the roof. Its metal sheets are installed to prevent water from entering the gap between the chimney and the roof, protecting your home from leaks and water damage. If you see water in the cracks of your chimney saddle or firebox, it might not be a flashing issue—it could be a cap problem instead.
Chimney flashing should be installed over and under shingles to cover it. Step flashing, which is installed along the sides of the chimney, should go under the shingles above it and over the shingles below it to cover it. This layering directs water away from the chimney and onto the roof to prevent leaks. Counter flashing, which covers the step flashing, is embedded into the chimney’s mortar joints and sits on top of the step flashing to seal the connection between the chimney and the roof.
Yes, flashing is required around a chimney. Without flashing, water can enter the gap between the chimney and the roof and cause significant damage to your home’s roof, attic, and interior. Flashing is a protective barrier around the chimney that prevents water infiltration, reduces roof damage, and maintains the structural integrity of both the chimney and the roof.
The best flashing for a chimney depends on your roofing type and local climate. Common options are galvanized steel, aluminum, copper and lead. Copper is often the best option for chimneys because of its durability, corrosion resistance and longevity. However, galvanized steel is a popular and affordable choice. Aluminum is lightweight and rust-resistant and is good for some climates, while lead is highly durable but less commonly used due to environmental concerns.
Yes, you can install chimney flashing on your own, but it requires advanced DIY skills, comfort working at heights, and proper safety precautions. Precision is key, and you’ll need the right materials and tools. If you’re unsure or lack experience, it’s safer to hire a professional like GMT Home Services to ensure the job is done correctly and safely.
With years of professional experience and a strong commitment to customer satisfaction, we consistently uphold our legacy of excellence in every job we complete.
Ensure the safety and efficiency of your fireplace by scheduling your relative chimney service with GMT Home Services today we are committed to providing top-notch various chimney services to ensure your home is safe and your fireplace is running efficiently.
Our experienced technicians offer a comprehensive range of chimney services tailored to your specific needs. From thorough cleaning and inspections to repairs and maintenance, we’re committed to keeping your home safe and your fireplace functioning optimally.
Experience the benefits of a cleaner, healthier home by scheduling your required chimney service with us today.
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