Chimney Flashing & Counterflashing Repair in NYC
Many roof leaks start where the chimney meets the roof. Proper flashing and counterflashing form a layered metal barrier that sheds water around the masonry. East NYC Roofing, in business 20 years, repairs and replaces chimney flashing on homes and buildings across the five boroughs, Nassau and Westchester.
- 20 years in business
- 10-year warranty on replacements
- Within 2 hours for leaks
- Free written estimate
Problems this solves
- Water stains on the ceiling near the chimney
- Roofing cement smeared around the chimney base
- Rusted, lifted or missing flashing metal
- Cracked or missing mortar where counterflashing is set
- Leaks only during wind-driven rain or snowmelt
- Water pooling behind a wide chimney with no cricket
- Damp insulation or mold in the attic near the chimney
- Shingles curling or loose around the chimney
- Repeated tar patching that keeps failing
Chimney Flashing & Counterflashing explained
Chimney flashing is a two-part system. Base flashing and step flashing are metal pieces woven into the roofing and turned up against the chimney. Counterflashing is a second layer set into the masonry joints that overlaps and covers the top of the base flashing, so water cannot slip behind it. A cricket, or saddle, is a small peaked structure behind wider chimneys that diverts water around instead of letting it pool. Metals commonly used include aluminum, galvanized steel, copper and lead-coated copper. Tar or caulk alone is not a lasting repair, since sealants dry out and crack, while properly installed metal flashing can serve for many years.
Options and materials
Step and base flashing
Individual metal pieces are woven into each course of roofing along the chimney sides and a full piece is set at the front and back.
Cut-in counterflashing
Counterflashing set into a cut groove in the mortar joint and sealed, covering the top of the base flashing.
Cricket or saddle
A peaked, flashed diverter behind a wide chimney that sends water around the sides and prevents ponding and ice build-up.
Metal choice
Aluminum, galvanized, copper and other metals vary in appearance, longevity and compatibility with other materials on the roof.
Chimney repointing
Repairing mortar joints at the flashing line so counterflashing is held securely and water does not enter the masonry.
Our process
- Find the sourceWe inspect the chimney, flashing, surrounding roofing and attic or ceiling to confirm the leak is really coming from the chimney area.
- Written estimateYou receive a free written estimate describing the flashing type, metal, whether a cricket is needed and any masonry repairs.
- Remove old flashingFailed flashing, roofing cement and damaged roofing around the chimney are carefully removed and the area is checked for rot.
- Base and step flashingNew underlayment, base flashing and step flashing are installed and integrated with the surrounding roofing layers.
- Counterflashing and cricketCounterflashing is set into the mortar joints and sealed, and a cricket is built and flashed if the chimney width requires one.
- Test and clean upWe check the work, clean the area and photograph the finished flashing, reviewing the warranty terms with you.
What affects the price
Chimney size
Wider chimneys require longer flashing runs and often a cricket, which adds both material and carpentry.
Metal selected
Copper and similar premium metals cost more than aluminum or galvanized steel but have different lifespans and looks.
Roof pitch and type
Steep roofs, slate or tile surrounding the chimney need more care and safety setup than a standard shingle roof.
Mortar condition
If joints are crumbling, repointing is needed before counterflashing can be set securely.
Rot or deck damage
Water damage around the chimney may require replacing sheathing or framing before the flashing goes in.
Access and height
Tall buildings and awkward roof access affect safety equipment and labor time.
Getting a price
Because these factors change from roof to roof, we don't publish one-size-fits-all prices. We inspect your roof for free and give you a written, itemized estimate before any work starts.
Every chimney flashing & counterflashing job includes
- Free written estimate and leak inspection
- Permit handling where required for the work
- Protection of the roof, interior access areas and landscaping
- New base, step and counterflashing metal
- New underlayment or ice and water membrane at the chimney
- Sealant at counterflashing joints where required
- Debris removal
- Jobsite cleanup and magnetic nail sweep where shingles are disturbed
- Photo documentation and written workmanship warranty reference, terms on our warranty page
Written workmanship warranty on every job; full roof replacements carry our 10-year warranty. Warranty terms.