Do You Have Chimney Leaks? Your Flashing May Need Repair
Water leaking in the chimney is a common problem for many homeowners throughout northwest New York. After a significant rain event like a snowstorm or heavy rain, you may see water stains on your ceiling or hear dripping water inside the chimney. These are typical signs that the chimney flashing may need repair or replacement, so it is best the call the pros at Felgemacher Masonry & Chimney to prevent further damage to your chimney and fireplace.
Our Certified Professionals provide prompt chimney repairs throughout Buffalo, NY, Rochester, NY, and surrounding Genesee Valley communities in Northwest New York.
What is Chimney Flashing?
Chimney flashing is a layer of sheet metal that creates a watertight seal where the chimney meets the roof to prevent moisture intrusion. Several materials are used for flashing with varying quality, weight, and appearance, such as aluminum, copper, galvanized steel, PVC, and stainless steel.
Why Your Flashing Is Failing
The flashing contains three sections, and each piece must be installed correctly. Then, they are sealed with caulk or other waterproofing material. If the step, counter or cap, and base flashing are not installed correctly, the flashing will fail prematurely, another common cause of leaky chimneys in Buffalo and Rochester communities. So, always hire an experienced Certified Chimney Professional® like the experts at Felgemacher Masonry & Chimney for flashing inspection, repair, and replacement.
Some other causes of flashing failures include:
- Normal wear and tear
- Warping
- Rust/Corrosion
- Damage due to snow and ice accumulation or water pooling
Here are some of the signs that your chimney flashing needs a professional inspection:
- Water stains/peeling paint on the walls/ceiling around the fireplace.
- Water penetrates the attic through the roof deck.
- Mold or mildew in the attic.
- Rust stains or other brick discoloration.
- Water puddles in the firebox.
Signs Your Flashing May Need Repair
Since the flashing is about 30 to 40 feet off the ground, most homeowners are only aware their flashing needs attention once the damage is discovered during a routine inspection or they notice a chimney leak.
Flashing Repair
Felgemacher Masonry and Chimney has more than fifty years of chimney repairs in Northwest New York. In our experience, we typically recommend flashing replacement. That's because most flashing repairs are a temporary "band-aid" solution. So you will end up paying for the repair and its eventual replacement down the road. In the meantime, your chimney can suffer additional damage when the temporary repair wears out, and you've got another leak to fix.
Flashing Damage: Common Cause of Chimney Leaks
Flashing damage is one of the most common causes of a leaky chimney. After a prompt inspection by a Felgemacher Masonry and Chimney certified professional, we will clearly explain whether it is best to repair or replace the flashing.
Flashing Replacement & Cost
According to HomeGuide, flashing replacement costs range from $500 to $1,500. Remember that the actual price can vary depending on location, materials, size of the chimney, and fuel type. However, the cost of not replacing the flashing is substantially greater.
So, if you suspect a chimney leak, the best thing to do is call Felgemacher Masonry and Chimney to schedule a chimney inspection as soon as possible.
We will assess the damage, provide our expert recommendations and install high-quality flashing so you can enjoy your fireplace and other attached heating appliances safely.
Chimney Flashing Repair and Replacement in Northwest New York
We’re in your neighborhood. With locations in Buffalo and Rochester, NY, our trained and certified chimney and masonry professionals serve a wide area of Northwest New York.
