Cricket (roofing)

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Definition and Purpose of a Chimney Cricket
– A chimney cricket is a small ridge-like structure built on the roof to divert water and debris away from the chimney.
– It is also known as a chimney saddle or chimney cricket.
– The purpose of a chimney cricket is to prevent water from pooling behind the chimney and causing leaks or damage.
– It helps to direct water away from the chimney and onto the roof surface.
– Chimney crickets are typically installed on roofs with steep slopes to ensure proper water drainage.

Materials Used for Chimney Crickets
– Chimney crickets are commonly made from durable materials such as metal, wood, or synthetic materials.
– Metal crickets, such as copper or galvanized steel, are popular due to their longevity and resistance to weathering.
– Wood crickets are often used for their aesthetic appeal and can be crafted to match the roof’s design.
– Synthetic materials like PVC or rubber can also be used as they are lightweight and resistant to rot or decay.
– The choice of material for a chimney cricket depends on factors like budget, climate, and architectural style.

Installation Process of a Chimney Cricket
– The installation of a chimney cricket involves several steps and should be done by a professional roofer.
– The first step is to determine the size and shape of the cricket based on the chimney’s dimensions and the roof slope.
– A frame is then built using the chosen material, ensuring it is securely attached to the roof deck.
– Flashing is installed around the edges of the cricket to provide a watertight seal.
– Finally, the cricket is covered with roofing material, such as shingles or metal panels, to match the rest of the roof.

Benefits of Installing a Chimney Cricket
– Installing a chimney cricket can prevent water damage and leaks around the chimney area.
– It helps to divert water away from the chimney, reducing the risk of water infiltration.
– A properly installed chimney cricket can extend the lifespan of the chimney and the roof.
– It also helps to prevent the accumulation of debris, such as leaves or branches, on the roof.
– By improving water drainage, a chimney cricket can minimize the potential for mold or mildew growth.

Maintenance and Care of a Chimney Cricket
– Regular inspection of the chimney cricket is essential to identify any signs of damage or deterioration.
– Clearing debris from the cricket and the roof surface is important to maintain proper water flow.
– Any loose or damaged flashing should be repaired or replaced promptly to ensure a watertight seal.
– If the chimney cricket is made of wood, it may require periodic sealing or painting to protect it from moisture.
– It is recommended to consult a professional roofer for any maintenance or repair needs related to the chimney cricket. Source:  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cricket_(roofing)

Cricket (roofing) (Wikipedia)

A cricket or saddle is a ridge structure designed to divert water on a roof around the high side of a large penetration, typically a skylight, equipment curb, or chimney. In some cases, a cricket can be used to transition from one roof area to another. On low-slope and flat roofs with parapet walls, crickets are commonly used to divert water to the drainage, against or perpendicular to the main roof slope.

The pitch of a cricket is sometimes the same as the rest of the roof, but not always. For Steep-slope roofs, it is most common to have the cricket pitch to be equal to or less than the main roof, however for low-slope or flat roofs, it is more common to see the cricket be at least 50% greater slope than the roof, to minimize ponding. Smaller crickets (on steep-slope roofs only) are covered with metal flashing, and larger ones can be covered with the same material as the rest of the roof.

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