Do I need a mason and a roofer?

Sometimes. Counterflashing cut into brick is masonry. Shingles and step flashing are roofing. The written estimate says which trades the house needs.

Problem

Chimney leaks at the flashing, not always the flue

A stain next to a fireplace is often roof water that followed the flashing or a cracked chimney crown into the chase. The flue can be fine. Wide chimneys also need a cricket so water does not sit against the masonry on the high side.

Discuss your project

Signs we look for

Damp drywall or rust on the fireplace surround after rain
White mineral staining on exterior brick at the roof line
Missing or rusted counterflashing cut into the mortar
A wide chimney with no saddle or cricket on the upslope side

Why it happens

Masonry and metal expand at different rates. Mortar joints in freeze-thaw markets open. A reroof that reused old flashing leaves a hidden gap. St. Louis brick homes and older Naperville two-stories show this constantly. Hail-dented flashing in Wichita is the same leak with a different cause.

What we do next

We inspect the step flashing, counterflashing, the crown, and whether a cricket is missing. The job may need a mason for new counterflashing. We write that split so you are not surprised by a masonry line item.

What not to do

Do not pour a tube of roof cement around the entire chimney as a permanent fix. It fails in a season and hides the joints we need to see.

Services that address this

Markets where we see this often

More on repair versus replacement

Repair fits when the failure is isolated and the rest of the roof still has life. Replacement fits when wear or storm damage covers several slopes, leaks keep returning, or the deck is involved. The inspection answers that before anyone writes a contract. Full topic.

Next step

Request an inspection for this problem

Tell us about your property. We inspect, explain the recommended work, and provide a written estimate so you can make a confident decision.

Request an estimate (877) 513-4946