Memphis Chimney Flashing Repair: What’s Causing My Ceiling Leaks & Water Stains?

Seeing a water stain develop in your ceiling or in the walls around your chimney is never cause for celebration. Not only are they unsightly, but they are typically a sign that even more issues are lurking beneath the surface – things like wood rot, mold growth, and more.

Water stains near your fireplace are commonly due to issues with your chimney’s flashing. Flashing is installed at the point where the top section of your chimney meets your roofline, and since you have a joint there, it needs to be protected from water. Flashing is designed in a way that gives your chimney, your roof, and your home multiple layers of protection – and when properly installed, it does just that.

Hiring an experienced, certified chimney company means you’ll quickly get to the root cause of the issue, and have it repaired properly. Coopertown Services has decades of experience repairing leaks, and we’re dedicated to removing chimney issues from our Shelby County neighbors’ lives quickly and correctly.

Book your appointment online now or give us a call soon – we’d love to help.

What Is Chimney Flashing?

Chimney flashing consists of layers of metal that are specially sized and installed to safeguard the space where the chimney base meets up with the roofing materials. Flashing needs to be custom-made so that it thoroughly protects your chimney, all the way around, without leaving any space for water to make its way through.

Are there different types of chimney flashing?

Flashing often consists of two types of flashing materials: step flashing and counter flashing. Both are placed and layered to form a water-tight base around the chimney.

• For the step flashing, L-shaped pieces are woven into the shingles and up against the chimney to provide a base layer of protection.
• Counter flashing is then installed into the chimney mortar joints, over the step flashing, to add a second layer of protection.

High-quality urethane caulk is applied around the edges and corners to further bolster the flashing’s ability to block water.

Flashing is designed to provide a barrier against water, and with proper installation, it can effectively protect your chimney for years. But like anything else exposed to the elements, damage can occur: caulk can come loose, flashing pieces can tear or be torn off in storms, and materials can corrode and rust.

At Coopertown Services, we regularly repair and install custom flashing, and will be able to assess the damage to your flashing, and suggest the correct repairs. Whether you need new caulking or you need a complete flashing installation, we can help!

Call or book online with us today.

What Should Flashing Materials Be Made Of?

Flashing should be made out of one of the following materials: galvanized metal, stainless steel, or copper.

Galvanized metal flashing tends to be the least expensive option, but since it is susceptible to rust and corrosion, it also tends to be the least durable.

Although stainless steel and copper tend to cost more than galvanized steel, they are beautiful, longer-lasting options for chimney flashing – and you will see far fewer long-term problems.

Ask your Coopertown Services technicians about your choices and what would be best for your setup and budget. We’ll give you the facts and help you pick the right choice for your home.

How Do I Know If My Chimney Flashing Needs Repair?

Like with most chimney issues, the sooner you get on a necessary repair job, the better off you’ll be in the long run – that’s in terms of cost, function, efficiency, appearance, and more. Keep an eye out for the following warning signs that your chimney flashing needs to be inspected and possibly repaired:

• Interior water stains. Water stains on the ceiling or walls near the chimney are a clear indication of water infiltration – and damaged flashing is usually the culprit behind these types of issues.
• Clear gaps or cracking. Inspect the chimney flashing for any visible gaps, cracks, or separation between the flashing and the chimney or roof. Even small openings can allow water to enter and cause damage over time.
• Rust or corrosion. Since chimney flashing is made of metal (such as aluminum, copper, or galvanized steel), check for signs of rust or corrosion. Rust can weaken the flashing and compromise its ability to keep water out.
• Loose or missing roof shingles. Loose or missing shingles around the chimney can indicate that the flashing is not properly sealed or secured. This can create openings where water can enter the roof system…and eventually your home.
• Water around the chimney base. After a rain shower, check for signs of water pooling around the base of the chimney. This could indicate that water is leaking through the flashing and accumulating on the roof or ground – and it might mean you need a cricket installed!
• Mold growth and dampness. If you notice water-related issues inside your home, such as dampness, mold, or mildew growth, particularly near the chimney, it may be a sign that the flashing is allowing water to leak into your home.
• Chimney and fireplace leaks. If you experience leaks during heavy rain or windstorms, especially around the chimney area, it’s a clear indication that the flashing is not adequately protecting your home from water infiltration.

If you observe any of these signs, contact our experts right away. We’ll take a look, figure out the issue, then get a resolution for you as quickly as possible. Schedule with us now.

How Long Does Chimney Flashing Typically Last?

When probably installed and regularly maintained, chimney flashing can last for two or three decades! That said, this lifespan can vary based upon multiple factors, including the materials used, the quality of installation, the local climate conditions, and more.

Here’s a more detailed explanation:

• Materials Used: The different materials used for chimney flashing have varying lifespans. Stainless steel flashing tends to last around 20-30 years, copper flashing is more durable and can last 30-50 years (or more), and galvanized steel flashing typically lasts around 15-25 years.
• Installation Quality: The quality of installation plays a significant role in determining how long chimney flashing will last. Proper installation techniques ensure a tight seal, reducing the risk of premature deterioration or water entry.
• Maintenance: Regular maintenance, including inspections and repairs, as needed, can extend the lifespan of chimney flashing. Promptly addressing any signs of damage or wear can prevent minor issues from escalating into more significant problems.
• Environmental Factors: Climate conditions, exposure to UV radiation, temperature fluctuations, and exposure to corrosive elements (like salt or pollution) can affect the longevity of chimney flashing. Harsh weather conditions, such as heavy rain, snow, and high winds, can accelerate deterioration as well.
• Surrounding Roofing Material: The type of roofing material and its condition can impact the lifespan of chimney flashing. Flashing installed on deteriorating or poorly maintained roofing materials may be more susceptible to damage.

To maximize the lifespan of chimney flashing, it’s essential to conduct regular inspections and maintenance – and to always rely on a certified chimney expert. Inspect the flashing annually or after severe weather events, and be sure to check for signs of damage, rust, corrosion, or loose seals.

In addition, promptly repair any issues to prevent water infiltration and further damage to the roof and chimney structure.

Need help? We’re here for you. Call or book online now.

Should a Roofer or a Chimney Sweep Repair My Flashing?

Roofers are experts in roofing materials and their installation, so when it comes to repairing flashing around a chimney and roof, why aren’t they the go-to experts to call on?

Chimney sweeps specialize in chimney maintenance, and we understand how water interacts with the chimney structure. Going into a flashing repair job without this knowledge can leave you with poor results and heighten the risk of experiencing damage.

Technicians that are properly trained, like us, will ensure that the flashing is properly sealed to prevent water from entering the chimney. We can also inspect the other chimney components, ensuring there are no other issues and that water isn’t also gaining access from another point.

Now, if the issue with the flashing is part of a broader roofing problem, a roofer would be better equipped to handle the repair as part of an overall roofing inspection and maintenance. That said, we always recommend you reach out to our team first, as flashing is meant to protect your chimney – and we know chimneys.

Can I Repair Chimney Flashing Myself?

Chimney flashing repair requires chimney knowledge and masonry skills, as well as knowing how to safely work at heights. Because of the technical knowledge required, as well as the safety risks of working on a roof without proper equipment, we strongly recommend against DIY flashing repair.

In addition, note that repairing your flashing requires the use of various tools and materials, including roofing cement or sealant, replacement flashing, flashing adhesive or fasteners, roofing nails or screws, caulking guns, a pry bar or putty knife, and more. Often, by the time you’ve invested in appropriate gear, tools, and supplies, you’d have been better off hiring a professional in the first place.

…and that cost isn’t accounting for the damages you’ll face if the repair is done incorrectly and you end up with more damage than you started with.

Remember, too, that water can enter through even the teeniest, tiniest cracks and crevices. If even a small mistake is made when installing your chimney flashing, you’ll be at risk for more extensive damage down the line. Worse yet, your insurance isn’t likely to cover repair costs for a DIY attempt gone wrong.

Play it safe – work with us with qualified experts (like us) from the very start.

Need Chimney Flashing Repairs In or Near Memphis? Give Us a Call

If you need chimney flashing work in the Memphis area, give Coopertown Services a call at 901-358-7777 or schedule an appointment on our website today. We’d love to speak with you soon.

 

Be sure to talk with us about waterproofing your chimney to help prevent continuing and future chimney leaks.