Most homeowners think a chimney cricket is optional, but, for chimneys of a certain width, they’re a necessity. In fact, the NFPA 211 Standards and International Residential Code made chimney crickets a requirement for chimneys with a width over 30 inches. Chimneys located on the downward slope of a roof will also likely need a chimney cricket. Chimney Doctors, one of the top chimney sweep companies in the state, elaborates on why below.
What Does a Chimney Cricket Look Like?
A chimney cricket is a small roof with angled sides and is usually placed on the upper backside of your chimney. It prevents the pooling of rainwater at the base of your chimney by diverting runoff away from it.
What Are the Advantages of a Chimney Cricket?
By diverting rainwater, a chimney cricket effectively prevents any moisture damage, which might require roof or chimney masonry repair. A chimney cricket would also be advantageous in the winter since it would also prevent the formation of ice dams, which, left unattended, can prevent water from flowing down the roof. The combined weight of pooling water and ice dams might even cause a section of your roof to collapse.
Apart from moisture damage, a chimney cricket also prevents damage stemming from mold. The chimney cricket stops foliage and other debris from accumulating at the base. Left unattended, the debris would accumulate moisture, leading to the formation of mold, which could then spread to other parts of your roof.
Note that a chimney cricket isn’t restricted to chimneys that are at least 30 inches wide. If you frequently find yourself dealing with any of the aforementioned, have an experienced specialist install a chimney cricket as soon as possible.
Chimney Doctors is a locally owned company with 20 years of experience and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. We offer chimney inspections and chimney relining services. To get a schedule an appointment, call (518) 633-5900, or fill out this form. We serve homeowners in Saratoga Springs, NY.
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