Project Overview
Chronic leak repair at the center chimney of a 1950s cape in Hackensack. Water stains had appeared on the second-floor ceiling during heavy rains for the last two seasons.
Analysis
Old aluminum step flashing was heavily corroded and the counter flashing had pulled away from the mortar joint. The cricket on the uphill side was undersized and allowed water to pond against the chimney base.
Process
Two-day project. Day 1 removed old flashing, built new cricket, installed underlayment. Day 2 installed copper flashing, reshingled around chimney, finished mortar sealant.
Outcome
Leak stopped immediately. Ceiling stain had dried completely by the following week. Copper flashing will outlast the roof itself.
