Why Flashing Is Critical For Your Chimney

Let’s talk about something most people never think about until they notice a leaky ceiling or a mysterious water stain above the fireplace — chimney flashing. It’s not glamorous, and it won’t do anything to improve your home’s curb appeal, but this unsung hero is critical for your home’s health — especially the chimney. So, what the heck is flashing, and why is it so important?

What is Flashing

Flashing is a thin metal strip, typically aluminum or galvanized steel, that wraps around the chimney’s base where it intersects with the roofing materials. It has one job — to keep water out. That’s it. But without it, your chimney is open to rain, snow, ice, sleet, and whatever else Mother Nature throws your way.

Why Flashing is Important

Besides fire, water damage is one of the worst things a homeowner can deal with. The chimney isn’t just stuck into the roof like a straw into a drink. There are gaps where the chimney and roof meet. That’s where the problem comes in. If that gap isn’t sealed, water can easily get in.

Moreover, if you have flashing, but it’s damaged, loose, or poorly installed, you may as well not have it because water will find a way in. And once it does? Well, here’s what you could be dealing with.

• Water damage to ceilings and walls
• Mold and mildew growth
• Rotting wood in the attic
• Damaged chimney masonry

All of that damage was because of a little metal strip.

It’s Not a One-and-Done Situation

Here’s the thing—flashing isn’t a set-it-and-forget-it home component. Over time, it can pull away from the chimney or roof because of temperature changes, harsh weather, house shifting, and age. Animals can tug at it. Wind can warp it. Ice can cause it to expand and force it loose. And once it’s compromised, water gets in.

That’s why it’s smart to have your chimney inspected regularly by a certified professional. A pro can detect flashing issues before they become flashing disasters. If caught early, flashing issues are simple and small repairs, but if left alone, they could turn into an expensive mess, especially if you’ve got a mold infestation.

Proper Installation is Everything

Poorly installed flashing is just as bad as no flashing. Seriously. We’ve seen chimneys with sloppy caulk jobs, bent metal, or just one lonely piece of flashing slapped on with a prayer. That kind of shortcut work might hold up for a season, but after that, you’re gonna be in trouble.

Proper chimney flashing is usually done in two parts:

Step Flashing: This is layered with each row of shingles and tucked into the roof.

Counter Flashing: This is installed into the chimney’s mortar joints and comes down over the step flashing to seal it off.

Together, they form a watertight barrier that lets water run off the roof and into the gutter without touching the vulnerable seam. When done right, this barrier can last up to 20 years or more.

Signs You Have Compromised Flashing

If you’re not climbing around on the roof (and you shouldn’t be), here are some signs you can look out for that signal you have a flashing issue.

• Water stains on the ceiling or walls near the fireplace
• Musty smells from the fireplace
• Visible rust streaks on the chimney
• Loose shingles around the chimney’s base
• Pieces of flashing lying in the yard after a storm

If any of those sound familiar, it’s time to get it checked out.

Doodlebuggers Can Help

We get it — flashing isn’t exciting, but it is crucial for protecting your home from water damage. That’s where Doodlebuggers comes in. We’re the premiere chimney and fireplace expert in Pensacola and Destin, FL. Our certified chimney sweeps have the training and expertise to identify and fix bad flashing and other chimney issues.

Plus, we stand by our work with a 100% satisfaction guarantee. When you use us, we promise to deliver high-quality work and an outstanding customer service experience. Contact us today!