Chimney Flashing Rebuild on Center-Chimney Cape
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.
Project Details
Materials Used
New 16oz copper step flashing, copper counter flashing, new cricket framing with ice & water shield, replacement field shingles around the chimney, polyurethane sealant for masonry joints.
Methods & Techniques
Removed old flashing and affected shingles. Framed a properly sized cricket using 2x4 and OSB on the uphill side. Installed ice & water over the cricket. Wove new copper step flashing into each shingle course. Cut a reglet into the mortar for copper counter flashing embedded in sealant.
Key Highlights
Copper flashing rebuild, new cricket for water diversion, permanent leak solution, blended with existing roof.