Question: Doing research it seems like about 50% say lead is better, 50% say copper.

If you have an opinion either way, please post – I’m having it done soon and want to know which to ask for.

Answer: Both lead and copper are good choices for chimney flashing. Copper will cost more than copper and it is harder to work with.

Lead can be easily bent and shaped. Both have a long life.

If your chimney is in an area that can’t be readily seen, then I would save the money and go with lead flashing. If this is a tile or slate roof then I would go with the copper. I would also use copper if this is a shake roof as well.

Chimney Flashing Question:

My 1930-built house has a small brick secondary chimney that only vents the gas water heater in the basement. It runs through an interior wall in the first and second floors. Though the roof and flashings were completely replaced 4 years ago, I have noticed for the past 6 months that the paint is peeling and the plaster thincoat is cracking in some of the walls and ceiling areas adjacent to where the chimney runs, especially in rainy weather. I’ve always been able to hear water running down the chimney during a rain (both chimneys are open top) but this dampness and cracking are new. Would a vented chimney cap prevent this or do you think I have a cracked liner that will need to be replaced? Or could it be that the caulking has shrunk away from the flashing?

It’s a 2 1/2 story house with about an 8/12 roof pitch, so it would not be easy for me to climb up there. Also, there is no access to the attic/headspace. Should I call a roofer or a chimney guy?

My Flashing Answer: Read the rest of this entry

Question: The house is about 40-50 yrs old, and the roof/chimney has never had flashing. Recently moved in and faced with intense flooding in the basement. Need a cheap way to fix this, even if only temporary! Any input at all would be greatly appreciated!!

My Answer: Read the rest of this entry