Chimney flashing repair for homes in El Portal

Water that soaks in above the flashing

Brick and mortar absorb some rain, and on a long wet day water can travel down inside the chimney wall. Brick industry details deal with this by carrying the counter flashing through the wall and turning it up inside. Water within the masonry is then caught and led out.

Counter flashing set only into the face joint does not catch water that is already inside the brick. If staining continues after the roof junction is sound, the masonry above the roof may be the next place to look. We explain that possibility rather than replacing the flashing twice.

Reseal, reset or replace

Flashing repairs fall into a few kinds, and the right one depends on what failed. We explain which kind fits your chimney in El Portal and why.

A smaller repair is reasonable when the failure is local. A full reflash needs its own reasons, and we write them down so you can weigh them.

• Resealing a reglet or lap where the metal itself is sound
• Resetting counter flashing that has pulled out of its joint
• Replacing pieces on one face where the metal has failed
• Reflashing every face when the whole junction is worn

Copper flashing and how it changes color

Copper is a durable flashing metal, and brick industry guidance lists it for chimney work. It changes color as it weathers, and water running off it can leave green streaks on brick or roofing below. Some owners like the look and some do not.

If you are considering copper for a chimney in El Portal, tell us how you feel about staining before you approve. We explain where runoff from the new metal would travel on your roof. If staining would be a concern, another metal may suit your chimney better, and the estimate can show both choices.

Looking at flashing after a strong storm

After a strong storm, it is worth looking at the chimney from the ground. Wind can lift the edges of counter flashing, loosen pieces at the corners and bend metal that was already weak. Damage may not leak until the next heavy rain.

Look for metal standing away from the brick, pieces hanging loose or roofing disturbed near the chimney. Stay off the roof and away from anything hanging. If you see damage, describe it when you call, and we will look at the flashing and the top during the visit.