Keep Water Out of Your Chimney With Flashing Repair Services From Mountain Man Fireplace & Chimney, Inc.
Faulty chimney flashing can compromise your home’s safety and leave you holding a long and expensive repair list. Damaged flashing can cause water leaks, property damage, and mold growth. At Mountain Man Fireplace & Chimney, Inc., our certified chimney sweeps are experts in chimney flashing repairs. We use only the best materials and industry-proven techniques to deliver long-lasting solutions to our clients. From minor leaks to complete flashing replacements, our team is dedicated to protecting your property.
Get in touch with us to schedule a chimney inspection to determine if flashing is the cause of your leaky chimney. Call us now at 303-679-1601 or request your appointment online.
What Is Chimney Flashing?
Chimneys and roofs are made from very different materials. Because of this, the area where your roof meets the base of your chimney is very difficult to seal, making it susceptible to water damage. Flashing helps protect this area from moisture intrusion.
Flashing is usually crafted from materials like aluminum, copper, or galvanized steel to create a watertight seal at that crucial intersection of the chimney and roof. It is installed in multiple layers for maximum protection with the base layer of flashing wrapped securely around the chimney’s base. Step flashing is then interwoven with the roof shingles, and an additional layer known as counter-flashing is installed on top of the base flashing to provide an extra line of defense.
When installed properly, flashing redirects rain and snow away from this vulnerable area and safeguards both the chimney and the roof.
How Do I Know if My Chimney Flashing Needs Repair?
When flashing fails, you may not be aware that it’s the origin of your chimney issues. There are several components of your chimney system where water can enter and cause damage.
If you see any of the following signs, reach out to us for a chimney inspection so that we can locate the source of the chimney leak:
- Rusted or loose flashing. It may be hard to see if the flashing is damaged from ground level but if you spot rust or it looks loose, reach out to us.
- Signs of water damage near the chimney. Water stains, peeling paint, or discoloration on the ceiling or walls near the chimney can be signs of a leak from the chimney that may have originated from damaged flashing.
- Missing shingles. If you see broken or missing shingles around the chimney, it’s a warning sign that the flashing underneath might be failing. This is because damaged shingles compromise the overall strength of the roof where it meets the chimney.
- Mold and mildew growth. A musty odor is often the first sign of the presence of mold or mildew. You may also notice green or black discoloration on the exterior and interior of the chimney.
Can I Repair Chimney Flashing Myself?
Although you can attempt to take on a chimney flashing repair yourself, we don’t recommend it. While there is no shortage of instructions and videos available online, this job involves working at heights, transferring potentially heavy materials and requires masonry skills.
Improper sealing due to inexperience can lead to further water infiltration. As a result, this could cause hidden damage to underlying structures or even interior walls. In the end, these complications could translate to a much more expensive repair job than the initial flashing issue. You can save yourself a lot of money and a serious headache by bringing in the trusted crew from Mountain Man Fireplace & Chimney.
Damaged Flashing Can Become a Major Problem
When things break around the house, it causes unnecessary and untimely stress. Flashing repair doesn’t have to fall into the category. Instead of trying to take on an overwhelming process alone, count on the expertise of the team here at Mountain Man Fireplace & Chimney. We’re here to make your life easier. Click here to request an appointment or give us a call at 303-679-1601.
Like chimney crowns on traditional brick fireplaces, chase covers need repairs from time to time to help prevent chimney leaks. Get in touch with us right away if you think you might need this service.