Making Your Remodel Easier

The chimney is an important part of your roof. First of all, most people like the look of an actual stone chimney sticking out of their roof. It has an old fashion style that can be rustic and charming.

The chimney is also significant because it can actually be the weak point of the roof. The chimney kind of sticks out like a sore thumb, and it can get damaged in a number of ways. The biggest problem with most chimneys is that water damage can occur where the base meets the roof. This happens a lot on slanted roofs, especially along the top edge of the chimney where it meets with the down slope of the roof. Water can accumulate here and sit for several days as it dries if it is nor properly designed or if anything blocks it from draining.

Restore the Flashing

Regardless of what material you have on your roof, there is probably a protective metal flashing underneath it. But if this flashing is not perfectly sealed, water can seep underneath it. Flashing is usually just glued down to the roof deck, so don't be surprised if it has become separated over the years.

Check for Leaks

One of the easiest ways to tell if your flashing needs to be replaced is to see if there is actual water leaking into your chimney flue. This means not only that the flashing is compromised but also that the grout between the brick in the chimney is no longer water tight.

Check the Chimney Cap Too

If water is coming into your chimney, it is either coming through the flashing or through the protective cap on your flue opening. If you look at it, you should be able to easily tell if it is sealed. Caps can get damaged in hailstorms or get damaged by severe weather, but they are usually very sturdy. It is more likely the problem has to do with the flashing.

Get Up on the Roof

Obviously, you can't even really get a good look at your flashing unless you climb up on your roof and have a close look at it. If the tile above it is peeling away and you notice that the metal is also separated from the deck, you will need to remove this tile and the flashing and install a new piece.

This is not particularly difficult work, but you should let the professionals handle it. A general contractor such as those with J. Forrest Development can not only do the flashing repair but also inspect the surrounding area to see how severe the damage is. If any sections of your wooden roof deck also need to be replaced, this should be done now, rather than just replacing the flashing and leaving the damage to the deck.