Why Is Chimney Flashing Important?

Chimney and chimney maintenance as a whole is often disregarded by many house owners. However, one important aspect of the chimney system that most people ignore is chimney flashing. This is a simple strip of metal that is fixed in between the chimney and roof, yet it plays a very important role in keeping the house dry. A little bit of flashing works wonders. Without proper flashing, water will trickle down the gaps and lead to several issues, such as water damage, the presence of mold and the decay of materials. These are risk factors that not only compromise the integrity of the walls and roofs but also lead to high costs of repair in future. In this regard, there is no way one can avoid chimney flashing if repairs are not to take all the time and resources.

What Is Chimney Flashing?

Chimney flashing is a metallic protective seal often made of aluminium or steel, which is fixed around the base of the chimney where it joins the roof. This metal shield is expected to work by stopping water from getting past the roof line and into the house. Flashing is made of two parts: base flashing, which is found beneath the shingles and revolves around the chimney, and counter flashing, which is embedded into the mortar of the chimney. These parts fitted together form a system which helps to redirect the flow of water from the depressed roof area to the gutters thereby ensuring the gutters are not clogged with water.

In particular, chimney flashings are very important because they help to deal with movement caused by varying temperatures aside from their primary purpose. In the absence of watertight flashing, this space is prone to water ingress which would then result in damage to the chimney and the roofing system over time. How something as minor as a flashing issue may turn into a violent storm in only a few minutes is the issue. The answer is simple. It is only through carrying out routine inspections and timely Chimney Flashing Repair.

Why does Chimney Flashing Matter for Home Protection?

Prevents Water Damage

Flashing installation is essential due to its water protection properties. No flashing would mean that rainwater or even snow melt could easily go inside the house in between the gaps of a chimney. With time, this dampness might create problems like stains on the ceiling, discolouration of the walls, and deterioration of plasterboards. These are potential issues that a homeowner may face, for instance, costly damages and worsening and weakening the foundation of their home. If the flashing is working as it should, then no water should sit on the roof, as all the water should run into the gutters, thereby protecting the rest of the house.

Protects Against Mold and Mildew

Flashing that has been damaged and incorrectly installed causes water penetration around chimneys and promotes fungal and mildewy growth around the structures. Fungi are fast-growing organisms prefer wet and dark locations such as under sinks. They also tend to spread in the air and, as a result, affect people’s health. When mold spreads this much, it can cause health and breathing problems to everyone living in the house. Also, cleaning the mess left by mold and spores is expensive and disruptive. However, good quality chimney flashing and regular checking of the flashing will lessen or eliminate the chances of mold and mildew growth around the household. This will create a more secure and healthier living space for families.

Maintains Structural Integrity

Like most roof penetrations, chimneys have connecting joints that make them susceptible to leaking. The installation of quality chimney flashing is a fundamental step in ensuring the durability and functionality of your chimney as well as the roof structure. Water can enter through these joints and weaken roofs, chimneys, and many other structures over time. Roof leaks can cause the roof deck to rot, which leads to soft spots and sagging, while moisture penetrating the chimney’s masonry tends to erode the mortar and, in turn, the bricks. This becomes even more problematic when the depth of winter sets in, as there is more danger of freeze-thaw cycles causing hair-line cracks in the face of the masonry block. Thus, over some time, both the roof as well as the chimney undergo such phenomena that their safety is endangered, requiring costs and repairs. Good-quality flashing is the primary mode of protection, ensuring the durability of your chimney and roof for a long period.

Signs of Chimney Flashing Issues

Flashing issues can cause expensive damage in the long term if the early symptoms are ignored. Typical visible symptoms would be any discolouration or bulging of the metal surfaces; watermarks on roofs or walls adjacent to the combustion, or chimney, vent and shingles that appear unattached or displaced, especially around the chimney. There are instances where some of the clients report wetness in their attics, particularly after precipitation seasons. If any of these signs are present, it is indispensable to seek a professional’s assistance who will conduct an examination and provide a remedy. Turn a blind eye to flashing problems, and you will prolong the existing damage, and this is likely to even provoke severe nature of problems regarding the chimney and the roof. Sometimes, it is better to go for a chimney flashing replacement.

Conclusion

Flashing around the chimney is one of the elements in the house that keeps water at bay and its adverse effects. Overall, flashing prolongs the life of the roof and chimney by preventing internal water loss, protecting the structure from moisture and mold and preserving the relevant elements. It is also very important to carry out regular maintenance practices like doing repairs, among others, to ensure that the chimney flashing is always in good working condition. Therefore, the next time you make an appointment for a chimney cleaning or a roofing check-up, remember to ask for an inspection of your flashing; it is just a small thing, yet it can spare you from more serious issues that may arise later on.