08/20/2026
🏠 CHIMNEY FLASHING A SMALL DETAIL THAT MAKES A BIG DIFFERENCE! 🏠
Your chimney may look great from the ground, but one of the most important areas to check is the flashing where the chimney meets the roof. Proper flashing helps keep water from getting into the attic, roof structure, and walls.
🔎 What should properly installed chimney flashing look like?
✅ Step flashing should be installed along the sides of the chimney, with individual pieces integrated with the roofing material.
✅ Counterflashing should be installed into the chimney masonry and overlap the step flashing to help prevent water from getting behind the flashing.
✅ At the uphill side of the chimney, a properly installed cricket or saddle may be needed on larger chimneys to divert water around the chimney instead of allowing it to collect behind it.
✅ Flashing should be secure, properly overlapped, and free of significant gaps or damage.
⚠️ Watch out for excessive caulking or roofing cement! While sealants can be part of a proper flashing system, large amounts of sealant used as the primary method of keeping water out can be a sign of an improper or temporary repair.
💧 Why does it matter?
Failed chimney flashing can allow water to enter areas you can’t easily see, potentially leading to rotted roof sheathing, damaged framing, insulation problems, staining, and interior water damage.
During a home inspection, don’t just look at the chimney itself look at how the chimney and roof are connected. That transition is where proper installation really matters!
🔨 A good inspection looks beyond what catches your eye and checks the details that help keep your home dry.
📲 Thinking about buying or selling? Let Modern Home Inspections help you identify potential problems before they become expensive surprises.
What do you think about this chimney??🧐
