Chimney Leaks and Flashing Repair

Where chimneys let water in

• Step and counter flashing that's rusted, loose or only sealed with caulk
• A cracked chimney crown (the cap on top of the brick)
• Missing chimney cap letting rain straight down the flue
• Failed mortar joints soaking up water
• No cricket behind a wide chimney, so water and snow pile up

Why caulk isn't a fix

Many chimneys are "repaired" with roofing tar or caulk, which cracks after a winter or two. Proper flashing is layered: step flashing woven into the shingles, and counter flashing cut into the mortar joints to cover it.

The permanent fix

Remove old flashing, install new step and counter flashing, add a cricket on wide chimneys, and repair the crown or add a cap where needed. Mortar repairs may need a mason.

Leak by the chimney? Get it inspected →