In homes with a fireplace, your chimney is a vital component in maintaining warmth in your home throughout brutal Illinois winters. Over time, problems may arise with your chimney. One of these problems is damage to chimney flashing. On this page, you will find 6 signs that your chimney flashing in Oak Lawn, IL, and surrounding Chicago areas, needs repair. 

Chimney Flashing Basics 

Chimney flashing is an important component of your roofing and chimney, usually consisting of thin pieces of metal. This area serves to prevent water from leaking in through the area where the chimney and the roof meet. This material is usually a tough metal like aluminum, copper, or stainless steel in order to prevent weather damage and rust. It is important that your chimney flashing is able to maintain this seal to prevent water damage to your roofing and inside your home. 

There are several different types of chimney flashing, each fitting a specific home design.

1. Step flashing is used when your roof meets a vertical wall, the sides of the chimney, and uses multiple pieces of material that overlap each other in a stair-step pattern. This design directs water away from the chimney onto the roof to slide downward. Counter flashing is installed over the step flashing, embedded into the chimney’s mortar joints. This provides your chimney with an additional layer of protection against water leaks. Base flashing may also  be installed in addition to step flashing for an additional layer of protection. 

   
   

2. Continuous flashing, or apron flashing, is a long piece of metal at the base of the chimney, where it meets the roof. This type of flashing also carries water down to the shingles, away from the chimney. 

   
   

3. Cap flashing, or saddle flashing, appears at the top of the chimney, preventing water from entering the structure. This type of flashing is often used alongside counter flashing as an additional protective barrier. 

   
   

As you can see, chimney flashing is very important if you want to keep your home warm and dry during the winter months.

Here are 6 signs you need a chimney flashing repair

#1 Water Leaks or Staining 

Have you noticed water leaking or water stains on the walls or ceiling near your chimney? This may be a sign that your chimney flashing needs to be repaired. You will need to find the source of the leak and repair it which may involve repairs in flashing, sealing gaps, or chimney cap repairs. 

#2 Rust or Corrosion 

Over time, the metal used in flashing may be vulnerable to rusting or corrosion. This unfortunately risks the integrity of your chimney flashing and can lead to water leaks. In this case, your chimney flashing may need to be replaced. 

#3 Loose or Missing Flashing

In the Chicagoland area, residents are no stranger to high winds. Wind damage can occur to chimney flashing, leaving pieces of material loose or even missing entirely. This leaves your chimney vulnerable to water leaks. You may need to have the chimney flashing reinstalled or replaced in this case. 

#4 Sealant Damage

Over time, the sealant used for your chimney flashing can wear down and crack. This, too can lead to water seeping through into your chimney or home. Sealant may need to be patched or reapplied to fix this issue. 

#5 Cracked Mortar Joints

If your chimney is made of brick, you may experience cracks in the mortar joints near your chimney flashing. This allows water to seep in and eventually poses risk to the chimney’s structure.

#6 Algae or Mold 

Algae and mold grow in areas of excessive moisture. If moisture is consistently present around your chimney flashing, algae, mold, or mildew may begin to grow. Algae, mildew or mold growth may be accompanied by an unpleasant smell in or near your chimney as well. This signals that the water is not being cleared from the area, and there may be a problem with your chimney flashing. This may show the need for chimney flashing repairs or replacement. 

Repairing Chimney Flashing is Important

Chimney flashing problems may seem minor at first, but over time these issues can lead to extreme water damage and pose risk to the integrity of your chimney and roof. In addition to water damage, leaks can bring about mold growth, which is unsafe for anyone living in the home. Damage to chimney flashing can also lead to a higher risk of chimney fires, which is something you surely want to avoid. By addressing the aforementioned issues early on, you are saving yourself more extensive repairs in the future. 

Need Chimney Flashing Repairs in Oak Lawn, IL?

If your chimney flashing is in need of repair in Oak Lawn, IL or Chicago’s surrounding areas like Ashburn, Gresham, or Beverly, IL, Velazquez Roofing can take care of it for you. If you are noticing any of the six signs mentioned above, our team of experienced chimney flashing installers can help you avoid larger problems down the road by fixing your chimney flashing using quality materials that will last. Next time you notice issues with your chimney flashing, contact us today so we can help get your chimney back in working order!