When it comes to safeguarding your home from the elements, one challenge that demands particular attention and careful planning is chimney leak repair.
Chimney leaks are among the most common roof leaks homeowners experience and can be challenging to deal with, especially if you’ve never dealt with them before. Typically, however, if there is a leak around your chimney you’ll most likely need flashing repair/replacement.
It may be that the flashing around the chimney is inadequate, worn, or corroded, or that it was improperly installed in the first place. Do not use caulk to repair these flashings! Whenever it’s practical to replace damaged roof flashing, have your roofing contractor do so.
Residential Roofing: 4 Easy Steps to Chimney Leak Repair
1. Inspect Your Chimney for Roof Leaks
Start with a comprehensive inspection. A professional roofer will examine the chimney base, walls, and surrounding roof decking to assess the damage. Look for signs like:
- Water stains on ceilings or walls near the chimney
- Rusted, bent, or missing flashing
- Cracked mortar or loose bricks
Tip from your roofer: Document any visible damage with photos. This helps your contractor identify issues and can be useful if you need to file an insurance claim.
2. Remove Damaged Flashing and Materials
Next, remove any worn or damaged materials around the chimney base. This includes old flashing, roofing cement, and any caulking that previously sealed the chimney-roof connection. Sometimes, siding or plywood may also need replacement.
Tip from your roofer: While clearing materials, check for hidden water damage or rot under the old flashing. Early detection can save you from costly repairs later.
3. Replace Step and Counter Flashing
Step flashing and counter flashing must be replaced if they show cracks, chips, or bends. Proper installation is crucial for a durable, watertight seal.
Tip from your roofer: Ensure your roofer uses high-quality, corrosion-resistant metal flashing. Stainless steel or copper are excellent options for long-lasting performance, especially in areas prone to heavy rain or snow.
4. Seal the Chimney-Roof Junction
Once the new flashing is installed, seal the flashing-chimney junctions with masonry caulk or specialized roofing cement. Every seam should be carefully covered to prevent water penetration.
Tip from your roofer: After repairs, monitor the chimney area during the next rainstorm. If you notice leaks, call your contractor immediately—early action prevents bigger damage.
Stop Chimney Leaks Today–Hire a Pro
Since improperly installed flashing leaves your home unprotected from rain, wind & hail and will allow water penetration to occur again and again, it is critical to handle repairs immediately.
If you need an experienced Delaware or Eastern Pennsylvania roofing repair contractor, call All Roofing Solutions. Specializing in residential and commercial roofing repair and replacement, we are a skilled local roofing company with over 15 years of experience and a reputation for honest and thorough service. We’ll be happy to assist you with your emergency roofing repairs, large and small.
To schedule your free consultation, call 302-725-ROOF (7663) in Delaware or 610-551-ROOF (7663) in Pennsylvania. Contact us today and receive a discount of 15% off any roofing repair job.
Why Choose All Roofing Solutions
- Family-owned and operated Delaware & Pennsylvania roofing contractor.
- Fully licensed and insured.
- Over 25 years of experience with roofing & siding installation and repair.
- A+ rated BBB member
- Complimentary Extended Material warranty
- 30-year workmanship guarantee on full roof replacements
- Lien Waiver to protect the homeowners from material liens
- Own crew—no subcontractors!
- Full-service roofer handling all types of residential and commercial roofing, windows & siding projects.
- Most re-roofing projects are completed in one day.
- Because we are efficient we are able to offer very competitive prices compared to large contractors with bigger overhead.
- Each roofing/siding project includes a meticulously performed, post-roofing inspection. We want to make sure that your roof replacement is done correctly and that it meets your complete satisfaction.
- The company owner supervises all projects to ensure high-quality workmanship.
- Customer Satisfaction Guaranteed!
