Have you ever wondered why there’s a triangular structure on your roof right behind your chimney? This is called a roof cricket, which serves a very important purpose for your home in terms of drainage and even complying with local building codes.
In this post, we’ll talk about what a chimney cricket is, its purpose, and how much it affects the cost of your roof. Keep reading to learn more about what goes on in your roofing system!
What is a roof cricket?
Roof crickets, also called chimney crickets and chimney saddles, are the elevated triangular structures you’ll find at the back of your chimney. It can also be installed behind a skylight or other features that protrude from your roof.
It’s often made of the same material as your roof, say, shingles. However, it can also be made of metal, such as copper, for better durability against harsh outdoor elements.
Note that chimney crickets come in different types. For example, roofs with steep slopes often need a wood-framed cricket with a roofing cover like shingles or metal.
Meanwhile, low-slope roofs usually need a cricket with sloped rigid insulation. But instead of a metal chimney cricket flashing, they’re covered with a membrane roofing system. The cricket is also designed with a diamond or triangular pattern.
Overall, a roofing contractor like Boelter Is Better will determine the best cricket chimney to use for your property. Also, they can design and install everything to ensure that it’s a perfect match for your chimney size and roof configuration.
What is a cricket on a roof for?
Cricketing on a roof system prevents water from pooling behind the chimney. When water gets stuck behind the chimney, it damages the masonry and causes expensive repairs and damage to the roofing system.
With the sloped design, the roof crickets allow rainwater to drain to the sides so it won’t become stagnant. Still, it should have enough slope height so the water won’t reach its peak during a heavy downpour. It’s the same reason why a cricket on the roof is installed higher than the roof plane.
Overall, chimney crickets help extend the lifespan of your roof by allowing flow to drain properly and for snow or ice to melt and drain away.
Is a cricket for a roof chimney necessary?
Now, here’s the biggest question: why do you need to install a cricket on a chimney? Nowadays, a roofing cricket is required by local codes if your chimney is over 30 inches wide. Also, it should be installed on each chimney, and you have to comply with the regulations.
Also, it’s important to install the cricket to the side of your chimney that’s paralleled to the roof’s ridge. It’s because this spot is where water often collects and pools.
Take note that crickets are also needed for skylight windows, so make sure you look for a professional ‘window installer near Mankato’ if you’re planning to have one installed.
Does a cricket for a chimney affect your roof’s cost?
The chimney cricket cost will surely add up to the overall value of your new roof. Still, the exact price will depend on the cricket material, the complexity of installation, and other factors.
For example, cricket roofing made of standard shingles will usually range from $300 or so for small ones. But if you’re opting for a metal fireplace cricket, you should expect to shell out about $700 to $800 a pop. This can go higher to $1,000+ if you want to upgrade to copper.
Take note that the bigger your chimney is, the higher the cricket’s price will be. A roofing expert in Mankato, like Boelter Is Better, can give you a much more accurate estimate after an onsite inspection of your roof.
Can I install a roof cricket on my own?
Much like your own roof, it’s best to leave the cricket fabrication and installation to the experts. This way, you’ll be assured of the quality and durability of the saddle, which means you’ll also get the best value for your money.
After all, a cricket for the roof should comply with local codes, something that licensed roofers can help you with. It’s best to consult with them to avoid any penalties and repairs, which can be more expensive in the long run.
Do you need a cricket for a roof chimney? Call a professional instead!
If you need to have roof crickets installed on your property, you should call a licensed roofer for the best results. Whether or not crickets are mandatory in your area, talking to a professional can save you from penalties or expensive roof damage.
For this, you can reach out to Boelter Is Better for expert roofing services. They’ve been servicing Mankato and the Southern Minnesota area for any roofing and exterior services you might need. With their 30+ years of industry experience, your home will surely be in good hands.
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