Hot and humid days of summer are well known for a particular type of flashing: the thunder-producing flashes of lightning that accompany thunderstorms. When it comes to your chimney, though, we at Northeastern Masonry & Chimney are referring to flashing as the sheets of metal installed at the joints where your chimney exits the roof.
What’s the big deal with flashing? Why is it so important?
When properly installed and maintained, flashing is an important component in keeping water out of your chimney system and home.
So let’s talk flashing.
Flashing protects the seams between your chimney and roof from being a source of water intrusion. You want a strong seal so that a strong barrier is formed. The two issues of greatest concern are flashing materials and proper installation.
Galvanized metal, stainless steel and copper are commonly used for flashing. Although galvanized metal may be less costly, it is vulnerable to rust and corrosion. Stainless steel and copper last longer. As for installation, Northeastern Masonry & Chimney professionals are knowledgeable and experienced in the technical requirements that assure flashing does its job. Flashing is installed in layers, with each layer needing proper installation and sealing. Caulking the seams provides added protection.
What sorts of flashing repairs might be needed?
Common repairs include the replacement of torn or damaged flashing, from bad weather or animals. In some cases the flashing was not properly installed to begin with. Perhaps the flashing materials weren’t suitable or the caulking wore away. Summer is a great time to make these deficits right.
Northeastern Masonry & Chimney has flashing repair and installation experts to remedy these issues. And our work is guaranteed. Call 518-767-9315 today to set up an appointment with our experienced, CSIA-certified technicians.
Flashing repairs now are both easier and smarter. The professionals at Northeastern Masonry & Chimney are ready and able to sweat now for your comfort later, when your chimney needs to work correctly. Repairing your flashing in these summer months makes sense because it’s an easier work environment for our experienced laborers. Plus, warm and dry weather conditions are conducive to joint sealing and setting. Our pros naturally don’t have to fight snow and sleet in August and September — and the sun doesn’t set at 5 p.m., allowing us more daylight to get the job done.
With 35 years of experience in the Capital District, Central and Northern New York, the Hudson Valley and western Massachusetts, Northeastern Masonry & Chimney has earned your trust.
Northeastern Masonry & Chimney technicians will repair your chimney flashing in a flash — and we’ll do it in line with the industry’s best practices and highest standards of quality. We will install or repair your flashing to protect your system from water or critter intrusion before a small problem becomes a major headache.
We’re not asking you to climb onto your roof to inspect your flashing, or to use some sort of periscope to evaluate the situation. Let us climb up there and take a look. A professional chimney inspection will take the guesswork out of the equation. Call Northeastern Masonry & Chimney at 518-767-9315 before the leaves start to fall.