Types Of Chimney Flashing Which Is Very Important To Know


A chimney is made of several components, each one of which has a crucial role to play in its functioning. Even if one part of your chimney is missing or malfunctioning, it can put your entire house on risk. While we generally talk about cleaning and chimney liner installation, we forget about an essential component, flashing.

In this article, we will tell you everything you need to know about chimney flashing repair.

What is chimney flashing?
Flashing is that component of your chimney which is found at the point where the roof meets a fireplace. It is used for sealing the space between the roof and chimney. The primary purpose of a chimney flashing is to provide waterproofing to your roof and chimney to protect them from water penetration. Chimney flashing is a long-term installation, and therefore you should invest in good-quality fireplace flashing material for your chimney. If installed properly, chimney flashing can last for up to 30 years or more.

Here are a few essential types of chimney flashing available in the market.

  1. Aluminum - Choosing aluminum for chimney flashing is a prevalent option. This is because of the inexpensive nature of aluminum. It is also resistant to rust and corrosion. Moreover, aluminum flashing can be installed on any roof.

  1. Steel - Steel is another popular material used for manufacturing chimney flashing. It is due to anti-corrosive properties and excellent strength and durability.  


  1. Copper - Copper is the most expensive of all other flashing options. Also, it is good because it doesn’t corrode quickly and is durable enough. In addition to this, copper is also very lightweight. Copper is not used very often as it can stain the chimney crown or bricks.

  1. Vinyl or PVC - PVC is not an appropriate material to be used in extreme weather conditions. It can crack if subjected to extreme weather conditions.


Installation of flashing
If you want to ensure that no moisture enters your chimney, you will have to make sure that the flashing is installed correctly. This is why it is suggested that flashing should be installed by a renowned chimney sweep.

For instance, while installation, it should be seen that the flashing extends to the outside and forms a proper channel for water to flow rather than getting accumulated. The purpose of the chimney flashing is to seal the chimney and roof joint. Therefore any bends or breaks in the fireplace are not acceptable. Chimney sweeps are trained to make accurate measurements so that no errors creep in a while installing chimney flashing. Many chimney sweep companies also offer customized flashing for chimneys, and you can avail their services for best results.
How to decide when your chimney flashing needs repair or replacement?

Flashing can erode over time or get blown off due to bad weather. In these circumstances, you will need to replace it at the earliest. Flashing is made up of metal and therefore can get rusted or get covered up in tar, reducing its overall effectiveness.



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