Chimney Cricket/Saddle Installation – Charlotte NC
The often-missing component that prevents water damage behind your chimney.
What Is a Chimney Cricket (Saddle)?
A chimney cricket (also called a saddle) is a small peaked roof structure built behind a chimney on the uphill side. It diverts water around the chimney rather than allowing it to pool or flow into the flashing.
Think of it like a tiny pitched roof behind your chimney that says "water, go around!"
Why Crickets Are Essential
Without a cricket, water and debris collect behind the chimney:
- Water pooling: Standing water finds its way under shingles
- Debris accumulation: Leaves and debris trap moisture
- Ice dams: Winter buildup damages flashing
- Accelerated wear: Flashing fails years early
- Roof damage: Decking rots from prolonged moisture
Common scenario: Water damage in the ceiling near the chimney, but the flashing "looks fine." Often the missing cricket is the culprit.
Building Code Requirements
According to IRC (International Residential Code):
A cricket is required when:
- The chimney is wider than 30 inches
- The chimney is on the downslope side of a roof pitch
However: Many Charlotte homes without crickets still experience problems. We often recommend crickets even for smaller chimneys if water damage has occurred.
Cricket Construction & Materials
A properly built cricket includes:
- Frame: Usually 2x4 or plywood structure
- Sheathing: Plywood deck matching roof
- Underlayment: Ice and water shield membrane
- Covering: Matching shingles or metal flashing
- Integration: Ties into existing flashing system
Note: Cricket installation is often done during roof replacement or flashing repair. It requires integration with both roofing and chimney systems.
Stop Water Damage Behind Your Chimney
Professional cricket installation for Charlotte homes.
Related Services & Resources
Chase Cover Replacement
Prefab chimney tops
Chimney Cap Types
Cap selection guide
Refractory Panel Repair
Firebox panels
Chimney Fire Prevention
Fire safety essentials
Sparks from Chimney
Spark arrestor installation
Water Dripping in Chimney
Active leak solutions
Chimney Cleaning
Professional sweep services
Chimney Inspection
Level 1, 2, 3 inspections
Our Services
Common Problems
Proudly Serving Charlotte and the Entire Piedmont Region
We provide comprehensive chimney services to the following locations:
Charlotte, NC
28202, 28203, 28204, 28205, 28206, 28207, 28208, 28209, 28210, 28211, 28212, 28213, 28214, 28215, 28216, 28217, 28218, 28219, 28220, 28221, 28222, 28223, 28224, 28226, 28227, 28228, 28229, 28230, 28231, 28232, 28233, 28234, 28235, 28236, 28237, 28241, 28242, 28243, 28244, 28246, 28247, 28253, 28254, 28255, 28256, 28258, 28260, 28262, 28263, 28265, 28266, 28269, 28270, 28271, 28272, 28273, 28274, 28275, 28277, 28278, 28280, 28281, 28282, 28284, 28285, 28287, 28288, 28289, 28290, 28296, 28297, 28299, 28105, 28130, 28134, 28126
Huntersville
28070, 28078
Cornelius
28031
Davidson
28035, 28036
Mooresville
28115, 28117
Matthews
28104, 28105, 28106
Mint Hill
28227
Pineville
28134
Concord
28025, 28026, 28027
Gastonia
28052, 28053, 28054, 28055, 28056
Monroe
28110, 28111, 28112
Lincolnton
28092, 28093
Salisbury
28144, 28145, 28146, 28147
Albemarle
28001, 28002
Greensboro
27401, 27403, 27405, 27406, 27407, 27408, 27409, 27410, 27455
Winston-Salem (West Salem)
27101
Don't see your area? Call us at (704) 200-2087 — we may still be able to help!