Amenity Roofing & Siding

Chimney Flashing Repair in Oswego, IL: Everything You Need to Know

It’s no secret that fireplaces are less popular in new homes built today than they were even 20 years ago. However, with the popularity of older homes and the charm that comes with them, you’ll often find a chimney that needs to be cared for properly.

Chimney flashing repair (or maintenance) has to happen eventually. But because chimney flashing lasts so long, it can be difficult to figure out if you actually need help with this task yet or not.

Are you curious about how to repair leaking chimney flashing? Do you want to figure out if your chimney flashing needs replacing entirely?

If so, keep reading below, and learn about chimney flashing repair, signs that you need it, and what it looks like.

What Is Chimney Flashing?

Chimney flashing is an important part of the seal between your chimney and roof.

It creates a waterproof sealant that will protect both the chimney and the roof from any type of water damage or infiltration into your home. As a result, it sits at the very base of the chimney on top of your roof.

The entire setup is composed of three parts: the step flashing, the counter flashing, and the base flashing.

Step flashing sits under your roof’s shingles and is usually made of metal (such as aluminum, steel, or copper). It is formed into an L-shape.

Counter flashing is embedded into the chimney bricks. It sits on top of the step flashing as well in the same L-shape and is also usually made of metal.

Base flashing sits on a vertical surface and the base of your room near the chimney to act as the waterproofing agent.

All of these three parts work together to make sure that water isn’t able to seep into or around the chimney since its addition makes your roof slightly more vulnerable.

What Are Signs You Need Chimney Flashing Repair?

If your roof flashing is installed correctly, it can last for decades. There are many factors that influence how likely your flashing will last that long though, such as your location in Oswego (or the area around it), the size of your chimney, the shape of your chimney, and what materials were used.

Some clear signs that you have bad chimney flashing include:

  • Discolored bricks
  • Leaking around or inside the chimney
  • Dripping sounds
  • Water stains on your ceilings or walls
  • Rust stains
  • Noticeable gaps around the flashing
  • Crumbling or breaking of the chimney bricks

Whenever you notice something that looks like it is out of the ordinary, you should find the right chimney flashing repair companies available to do the job, such as Amenity Roofing.

We offer many services that can help you get your roof back to tip-top shape. Experts that know about repairing chimney flashing and repairing your roof will be the best for this type of job.

Is Chimney Flashing Something to Repair Yourself?

While it may not sound difficult to install chimney flashing or repair one that is already there, it can be a challenge for people that are unfamiliar with roofing. 

Chimney flashing is located on the roof, so that should be your first consideration. It can be dangerous for people that are not experienced to spend time trying to repair anything on the roof, especially considering how many professionals themselves fall every year.

You also would need the right materials. Professionals already have the tools, equipment, and materials needed on hand to complete this task. As a result, it may actually be less expensive for you to hire someone to do the job for you rather than having to go and buy the tools needed yourself. 

Lastly, your roof is going to be vulnerable during the repair process. You want it to be completed as soon as possible so that your roof can protect itself and your home. The team of professionals will be able to do the job in a more efficient way due to their expertise and skill. 

Because chimney flashing is often complex and is easy to install incorrectly, it is best to let the professionals handle this task.

What Does the Repair Process Look Like?

If your chimney flashing is leaking, it may be possible to seal it with roofing cement or caulk. Many other issues, however, may warrant a replacement.

The process to replace warped, torn, or damaged flashing has approximately five steps.

First, the old chimney flashing and the shingles around it are removed. 

After this, the professionals will install the new base flashing around the bottom of the chimney.

The next step is to place various sections of step flashing and shingles. They are strategically added to make sure that the water from rain will drain away from the chimney and the roof as much as possible.

Once that’s complete, the front, side, and back flashing are all added on top.

To finish it off, the professionals will add counter flashing and caulk to waterproof the connection between the chimney and your roof.

Get Help From the Roofing Professionals

Chimney flashing is a necessity if you have a roof, but it doesn’t last forever. Eventually, you will notice signs of deterioration that will need to be addressed.

If you’re looking for a chimney flashing repair expert in Oswego, IL (or the surrounding area), look no further than Amenity Roofing. We have over 20 years of combined experience with roofing and are capable of helping any customer that needs it.

Contact us today to get a free estimate for your roofing job.

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