Is a cricket needed?

[Robert Jones]

This is a home built in 1978. Wood framed chimney which definitely exceeds 30" in width. The roof covering is new within the last 5 years or so. Would you recommend a cricket be installed on the ridge side of the framed chimney? I say yes, but would like verification.

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[hausdok]

Hi Rob,

So, for 31 years a saddle flashing has worked fine, right? Any sign of leakage around below the chase?

OT - OF!!!

Mike

[Robert Jones]

Hey Mike,

No evidence of issue now or in the past. Going back and reading the current code it does say cricket OR saddle. I will crawl back into my hidey hole now;)

Thanks Mike.

[Brandon Whitmore]

Hi Robert,

That flashing is not a cricket/ saddle (I've used the terms inter- changeably, but need to look it up be sure). I think what Mike is saying is that it's been working fine without leaking since the home was built (possibly). Do you really need to upgrade an existing home to comply with new building standards when things are working the old school way?

Just so you know, I've discussed this topic with our state code enforcement guys. They said that they would not require a cricket/ saddle be retro- fit until sheathing was replaced. Now if that sheathing was replaced, it probably should have had a cricket/ saddle installed (permits as far as I know should technically be pulled when replacing sheathing as it is a structural component).

[Robert Jones]

Thanks Brandon.

I am guessing that is actually a back cap flashing? I normally don't try and bring older homes up to current standard, well, unless it's electrical type issues(GFCI for example). This one just stuck out to me because the roof shingles were fairly new and the chase wasn't at the roof edge as is normally the case.

Thanks again Brandon.

[Brandon Whitmore]

No problem Robert.

So I typed in "roof saddle pictures" on Google, and this is what I found.....http://www.hammerzone.com/archives/roof ... frame.html

[Brandon Whitmore]

FWIW, my humble experience says that any "repair" to that flashing would be a downgrade. It's almost impossible to find a competent tin knocker these days.

I'm at the point where I recommend specific contractors, since I know there's a better chance that they will get it right. I didn't post the second half of the article posted above, because I do not consider what is done to be a proper installation (reinforcing what you say WJ)

Here it is:

http://www.hammerzone.com/archives/roof ... ngles.html

[Terence McCann]

Going from memory; IRC states that chimneys, in that configuration, need a cricket if over 30" wide.

I would tell the client that when it comes time for a new roof then have one installed.

[davidlord]

I would recommend a cricket, include code verbiage, and be on my merry way.