Repairing chimney counter flashing in Franklin Park
Clear boundaries between flashing, masonry and roofing work, written down before anyone lifts a tile or shingle.
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Flashing problems we look for in Franklin Park
- Counter flashing standing away from the brick
- Thick black roof cement around the base
- Gaps along the top edge of the metal
- Nail heads showing through the flashing
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Flashing repair decisions you can follow
Base and counter flashing work as a pair
Flashing at a chimney is usually two layers of metal rather than one. The base pieces lie on the roof and turn up against the brick. The counter flashing comes down from the chimney and laps over them. Because the two layers overlap instead of joining, each one stays with its own surface.
When we assess the junction on a home in Franklin Park, we check both layers separately. A sound base piece under a loose counter piece needs a different repair from the reverse. The estimate names which layer fails and on which face, so you can see why the scope is sized the way it is.
Counter flashing set into a cut joint
The upper edge of the counter flashing should not simply rest against the face of the brick. In the usual detail it turns into a mortar joint, either an existing bed joint or a slot cut for it, and is then secured and sealed. That slot is often called a reglet.
If the mortar around the reglet has softened, the metal can work loose and let water behind it. We check whether the joint can still hold the edge or whether a fresh cut is needed. Repointing beyond the reglet itself is a separate masonry item, listed on its own line.
When the evidence does not point at flashing
Sometimes the evidence does not single out the flashing. Water could be coming through the roof beside the chimney, the top of the stack or the masonry face. In that case the job starts as a leak investigation rather than a flashing repair.
We say which of these we could rule out during the visit and which remain open. A hose water test may help when the job calls for it, worked from the lowest point upward. Once the flashing is confirmed as the path, the repair scope is written for it alone.
Flashing matters even if the fireplace is unused
A fireplace nobody lights still has a chimney passing through the roof. The flashing around it keeps water out of the house regardless of whether anything burns below. An unused chimney can leak for a long time before anyone notices, because nobody looks at it.
If your chimney is out of use, the flashing and the top still need attention now and then. We can include them in a maintenance visit. If you plan to use the fireplace again, tell us, because the inside of the flue is a separate check.
Line items in a flashing proposal
- Roofing lifted and restored at the chimney
- Mortar above and beside the reglet
- Attic framing beside the chimney
- Access plan for roof height and pitch
Flashing repair questions, answered plainly
What separates step flashing from counter flashing on a chimney?
Step flashing is the set of base pieces woven into the roofing along the sloped sides. Counter flashing comes down from the brick and covers the top of those pieces. The two overlap rather than join, so each stays with its own surface.
How long does chimney flashing repair take in Franklin Park?
It depends on the roof covering, the number of faces and whether a reglet has to be recut. A single face on a shingle roof is quicker than a full reflash on tile. The estimate gives the expected duration for your job.
What does the flashing workmanship warranty cover?
It covers the flashing we installed and the way we installed it, as described in the written record. Parts of the roof or chimney outside the agreed scope are not included, which is why the scope is written out face by face.
More Ways to Care for Your Fireplace
- Fireplace Hearth RepairRepair the hearth surface after considering the supporting assembly and fireplace requirements.
- Fireplace RestorationCoordinate fireplace repairs while preserving suitable existing features and defining the intended use.
- Firebox RepairRepair the damaged fireplace chamber using an approach suited to masonry or manufactured components.
- Gas Fireplace InstallationCreate a complete gas fireplace installation plan for the room, appliance and connected systems.
- Spalling Brick Repair and Chimney Brick ReplacementReplace deteriorated chimney bricks while retaining suitable surrounding masonry.
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Chimney & Fireplace Brands We Work With
DuraVent 
Olympia Chimney and Venting 
Copperfield Chimney Supply 
Rutland 
Heatilator 
Heat & Glo