What Is a Chimney Cricket?

If you’re like most chimney owners, you have a basic idea of how your chimney works and the major parts. But one component you’ve probably never heard of is the chimney cricket. What is a chimney cricket, and why is it important? Let’s find out.

What is a Chimney Cricket?

The chimney cricket — sometimes called a roof cricket — is a somewhat unknown but crucial component to your chimney and fireplace or heating system. The cricket is a small, triangular peak-like structure that’s installed on the roof behind the chimney; its job is to direct water around the chimney, so it doesn’t sit on the roof.

Not all chimneys have a cricket; they’re mainly used in areas that receive heavy rain or snow, where water damage is a problem. The typical cricket is made from galvanized steel, stainless steel, or aluminum.

Why a Chimney Cricket is Important

As mentioned, the cricket’s job is to divert water from the chimney and roof to prevent it from laying. When water pools on the roof, it will find its way into the home through tiny cracks or holes, leading to wood rot, mold growth, and other damage. However, chimney crickets aren’t only useful during heavy rains; they’re also essential to protect your roof and chimney during winter.

If you live in an area that gets a lot of snow, you know how it can pile up on the roof and around the area behind the chimney. This part of the roof can be difficult to reach to clear the snow away. Once temperatures dip below freezing, the wet snow could form into an ice dam behind the chimney, which could cause damage if you don’t have a cricket installed to stop the snow from piling up.

Besides roof damage, the pooling water can also impact your chimney. The masonry materials that comprise your chimney are highly porous and will absorb water. Once water gets in and freezes, it causes the bricks and mortar joints to crack. Over time, these cracks worsen, which can lead to structural damage and costly repairs. Another lesser-known problem that a cricket can help prevent is pest infestations. The chimney is an attractive nesting place for birds and other pests, which can lead to them getting into your home or making a mess.

Can I Install a Chimney Cricket Myself?

There are plenty of DIY repairs and chores you can do around the house, but installing a roof or chimney cricket isn’t one of them unless you’re a professional.

The point of a chimney cricket is to protect your roof and chimney from water damage, so it’s best to leave it to people who know what they’re doing, like a chimney contractor or licensed roofer with experience in chimney flashing installation.

If you try to do it yourself, you could make your roof and chimney worse off than if you hadn’t installed a cricket in the first place.

Call the Experts at Fire N’ Stone

Fire N’ Stone is a full-service chimney and fireplace service company with over 13 years of experience, proudly serving customers throughout Tilton, NH. We’re family owned and operated and are your number-one stop for all your fireplace design, sales, installation, cleaning, maintenance, and custom stone needs. Call us today at 603-293-4040 or visit our beautiful showroom at 539 Laconia Rd., Tilton, NH.