What is a Roof Cricket? Preventing Chimney Leaks (2026)
By Skyridge Ricky • April 28, 2026 • 5 min read
If you have a chimney on your house, you have a high-risk zone for leaks. One of the most common reasons we see water damage in Utah attics is a missing or poorly designed roof cricket. In 2026, building codes are very specific about how and when to install crickets, especially on steep-slope residential homes where snow accumulation is heavy.
A cricket is essentially a small, peaked structure built onto the roof deck behind a chimney or other wide obstruction. Its sole job is to divert water around the obstacle so it doesn't pool and rot out your roofing materials.
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Book a roof repair inspectionWhy You Need Roof Crickets Installed
Without a peaked structure to split the flow, water and melting snow hit the back of your chimney and stop. This creates a "dead zone" where water sits against the masonry and flashing. Over time, this constant moisture leads to water damage and compromises the structural integrity of your roof deck.
When we have roof crickets installed correctly, the water is split into two channels and directed down the main slopes of the roof. This simple geometric fix protects the most vulnerable areas of your roofing system and is required by modern building codes for any chimney wider than 30 inches.
Anatomy of a Well-Built Cricket
A professional roofer will build the cricket framework out of plywood directly on the roof deck. It is then covered with underlayment (ideally ice and water shield) and shingled to match the rest of the house. The goal is a seamless transition that ensures water never has a chance to sit still.
- Slope: The cricket should ideally have the same pitch as the main roof.
- Flashing: Integrated step flashing and counter-flashing are critical where the cricket meets the masonry.
- Waterproofing: Because these are vulnerable areas, we always use premium self-adhering membranes under the shingles of the cricket.
Wrapping it up
Don't wait for a ceiling stain to find out if you have a proper drainage strategy. Whether you are building new or replacing an old roof, ensuring you have correctly designed roof crickets installed is one of the smartest investments you can make to prevent water damage. At Sky Ridge Roofing, we specialize in forensic chimney audits to identify these vulnerable areas before they fail.
Think your chimney might be missing a cricket? Contact us today for a free expert evaluation!
