Chimney Flashing Repair in North New Jersey

Flashing leaks typically show up as a stain along one side of the chimney at ceiling level, often worse after wind-driven rain. Crown and cap leaks tend to appear in the firebox or as a stain centered on the chimney. Brick absorption shows as damp or peeling surfaces on the chimney breast. The pattern helps, but we confirm it from the roof before recommending anything.

In nearly every case, yes. New shingles with old flashing is a weak point built into a new roof, and redoing it later means disturbing shingles that were just installed. If you are planning a roof replacement, ask that chimney flashing be included and that counter-flashing be cut into the mortar, not caulked on.

Step flashing alone leaves a vertical edge against the brick where water can get behind it. Counter-flashing is a second piece set into a mortar joint above and bent down over the step flashing, so water running down the chimney is shed onto the roof rather than behind the metal. Without it, the system relies on sealant, which does not last.

Chimney size, roof pitch and height, the number of sides that need work, whether a cricket must be built, and how much roofing has to be removed and replaced to do it properly. A small chimney on a low roof is a quick job; a large stack on a steep slope with a missing cricket is not. Estimates are free and itemized.

Metal work can be done year-round. The limiting factor is the mortar used to point the counter-flashing joint, which needs to cure above freezing. In winter we can install the flashing and use an appropriate sealant at the reglet, then return to point the joint when temperatures allow, or schedule the whole job for a mild stretch.