Chimney Flashing Repair
Chimney flashing creates a waterproof seal where your chimney meets the roof. It consists of step flashing (metal pieces woven into shingles) and counter flashing (embedded in chimney mortar). Leaks typically occur when flashing separates from the chimney, mortar deteriorates, or improper installation allows water intrusion. Repairs range from $200-800 depending on extent.
Chimney Flashing Facts:
- • #1 source of roof leaks in homes with chimneys
- • Proper flashing has multiple overlapping components
- • Should be inspected annually and after storms
- • Cricket/saddle recommended for chimneys over 30" wide
How Chimney Flashing Works
Step Flashing
- L-shaped metal pieces installed along chimney sides
- Woven under each shingle course as it's installed
- Directs water onto shingles, away from chimney
- Typically aluminum or galvanized steel
Counter Flashing
- Installed over step flashing
- Embedded into chimney mortar joints
- Covers top edge of step flashing
- Creates weather-tight seal
Base Flashing
- Covers front of chimney at roof junction
- Extends under shingles and up chimney face
- Counter flashing overlaps top edge
Need Professional Help?
Gimo's Roofing offers free inspections and estimates throughout Jacksonville and Northeast Florida.
Common Chimney Flashing Problems
- Separation: Flashing pulls away from chimney
- Mortar Deterioration: Counter flashing loosens as mortar fails
- Rust: Galvanized flashing rusts over time
- Improper Installation: Single-piece flashing instead of step
- Caulk Failure: Sealant dries out and cracks
- Missing Cricket: Water pools behind wide chimneys
Signs Your Chimney Flashing Is Failing
- Water stains on ceiling near chimney
- Visible gaps between flashing and chimney
- Rust stains running down chimney or roof
- Cracked or missing caulk around flashing
- Damaged or loose flashing visible from ground
- Water in attic near chimney during rain
Chimney Flashing Repair Options
Minor Repairs ($200-400)
- Resealing counter flashing to chimney
- Applying new sealant to gaps
- Patching small holes or cracks
- Re-embedding loose counter flashing
Partial Replacement ($400-600)
- Replacing counter flashing only
- Replacing one side of step flashing
- Installing new base flashing
Full Replacement ($600-1,200+)
- Complete step and counter flashing replacement
- Cricket/saddle installation if needed
- Mortar repair in chimney joints
- Typically done during roof replacement
Chimney Cricket (Saddle)
A cricket is a small peaked structure behind the chimney that diverts water around it:
- When Required: Chimneys wider than 30 inches
- Purpose: Prevents water/debris pooling behind chimney
- Materials: Metal or matching roof materials
- Cost: $300-600 additional
Get a Free Roofing Estimate
Instant online pricing or schedule an in-person assessment. Financing available from $99/month.
You Might Also Read
- Roof Repair vs Replacement - When to repair, when to replace
- Roof Leaks in Heavy Rain - 7 common causes and fixes
- Roof Replacement Cost Jacksonville - 2026 pricing guide
Key Takeaways: Chimney Flashing
- • Chimney flashing is critical, major leak source when it fails
- • Proper installation uses step flashing, not single-piece metal
- • Counter flashing must be embedded in mortar, not just caulked
- • Wide chimneys need crickets to divert water
- • Inspect annually and after severe storms
Suspect chimney flashing problems? Contact Gimo's Roofing for inspection and repair. We properly install step flashing and counter flashing. Call (904) 606-5313.
