If you want to protect your home from costly and dangerous water damage, then you need to know all about roof crickets.
Roof crickets are an essential part of any roofing system, and they can save you from dealing with major problems down the road.
In this article, we’ll take a look at what roof crickets are, the benefits they provide, the different types available, how to install them, and when you should call a professional.
By the end, you’ll be an expert on roof crickets and you’ll have the power to keep your home safe and sound.
Table of Contents
Short Answer
Roof crickets are small structures that are built on the roof to protect it from water pooling in valleys or low spots.
They are usually triangular in shape and are designed to redirect water away from the roof.
Roof crickets are often made of the same material as the roof and are installed in the same way.
They are used to protect the roof from water damage and help reduce the amount of maintenance needed to keep it in good condition.
What are Roof Crickets?
Roof crickets are inclined structures that are used to divert water away from areas where two planes meet on a roof.
They are typically found around chimneys, skylights, or where two roof pitches join.
They provide a slope to the roofing system that helps ensure rainwater does not pool in higher areas, which can lead to roof damage or even a leak.
Roof crickets are most commonly made of asphalt shingles, but can also be made of metal, wood, or slate.
Asphalt shingles are the most popular choice because they are cost-effective and easy to install.
Metal and wood are more durable and can provide more protection from the elements, but they are also more expensive.
Slate is the most visually appealing option, but it is also the most expensive and can be difficult to install.
The primary purpose of roof crickets is to ensure that any water that accumulates at the junction of two planes is directed away from the roof.
This helps prevent water from pooling in the higher area, which can cause damage to the roof or lead to a roof leak.
Roof crickets also help increase the overall lifespan of a roofing system, as they reduce the risk of water damage.
In addition to their functional benefits, roof crickets can also add aesthetic value to a roof.
They can be designed to match the existing roofing material, or be made from a different material to add an interesting visual accent.
Overall, roof crickets are an important part of any roofing system.
They help redirect water away from the higher areas of the roof, preventing damage and extending the life of the roofing system.
They can also add aesthetic value to a roof, creating an interesting visual accent.
Benefits of Roof Crickets
Having a roof cricket installed on your roof can provide a range of benefits, as they help protect against water damage and provide additional structure and support to your roof.
Roof crickets can help keep water from pooling in the higher areas of your roof, which is one of the main causes of roof damage and leaks.
This is especially important in areas where roofs have two planes, such as where a chimney protrudes from the roof or where two different roof pitches meet.
The installation of roof crickets also helps to provide additional structural support to your roof.
This is because the cricket acts as a support beam, which helps to keep the roof from sagging or bowing.
This can help increase the life of your roof and prevent costly repairs in the future.
Finally, roof crickets can also help to improve the overall aesthetic of your roof.
They can be made out of a range of materials such as asphalt shingles, metal, wood, or slate, which can give your roof an updated look.
Additionally, they can also help to provide a more uniform look to the roof, which can help to improve the overall appearance of your home.
Different Types of Roof Crickets
When it comes to roof crickets, there are several different types of materials that can be used.
Asphalt shingles are the most common material used for roof crickets, as they provide a durable and cost-effective solution.
Metal, wood, and slate are also popular materials for roof crickets, depending on the overall look and budget of the homeowner.
Asphalt shingles are a great option for roof crickets, as they are durable and easy to install.
They also come in a variety of colors and textures to match the roof and offer protection from the elements.
Metal roof crickets are also a great option as they are highly durable and can last up to fifty years.
Wood roof crickets provide a classic look and are often used on older homes.
Slate roof crickets are a great option if youre looking for a more unique look as they come in a variety of colors and textures.
Its important to note that roof crickets should be installed by a professional, as they require precise measurements and knowledge of the roof structure.
Improperly installed roof crickets can lead to water damage, leaks, and even structural damage.
When it comes to choosing the right material for your roof cricket, its best to consult with a professional roofer to ensure you get the best solution for your roof.
How to Install a Roof Cricket
Installing a roof cricket is a relatively straightforward process, but it is important to be aware of the potential dangers of working at heights.
It is also important to be aware of the need to use the right materials for the job.
The first step is to measure the area where the roof cricket will be installed.
This will help to ensure that the cricket is the correct size and shape for the area.
It is also important to measure the pitch of the roof, as this will affect the angle of the roof cricket.
Once the measurements have been taken, the cricket can be cut to the required size.
The next step is to secure the cricket to the roof.
Depending on the material being used, this may involve using screws, nails, or an adhesive.
It is important to make sure that the cricket is securely attached to the roof, as any movement can lead to the cricket coming loose and potentially causing damage to the roof.
Before attaching the cricket, it is also important to ensure that the roof is in good condition and that there are no cracks or holes that could lead to leaks.
Once the cricket is securely attached, the next step is to cover the cricket with roofing material.
This material should match the existing roofing material in order to provide a seamless finish.
It is important to cut the material to the correct size and shape and to use nails or screws to make sure it is securely attached to the roof.
Finally, the roof cricket should be inspected and any necessary repairs made.
This will help to ensure that the cricket is securely in place and that any potential problems are dealt with before they can cause damage to the roof.
Installing a roof cricket is a relatively simple process, but it is important to be aware of the potential dangers of working at height and to use the right materials for the job.
Following these steps carefully will help to ensure that the roof cricket is properly installed and that it provides protection and stability to the roof.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Installing a Roof Cricket
When it comes to installing a roof cricket, there are a few common mistakes you should be aware of.
First and foremost, you should never try to install a roof cricket without consulting a professional roofer and ensuring that you are up to the task.
Roof crickets are an important part of any roof and require the right materials and techniques to be installed correctly.
Another mistake to avoid is not using the right materials for the job.
As mentioned, roof crickets can be made of asphalt shingles, metal, wood, or slate.
Each of these materials has its own benefits and drawbacks, so its important to choose the right one for your roofs needs.
Finally, its important to make sure the roof cricket is installed correctly.
For example, it should be installed at the correct angle so that it can effectively divert water away from the area where it is needed.
Additionally, it should be securely fastened to the roof so that it wont move or become damaged over time.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure that your roof cricket is installed correctly and will last for years to come.
If you have any questions or concerns about installing a roof cricket, be sure to consult a professional roofer for advice.
Troubleshooting and Maintaining Roof Crickets
Maintaining roof crickets is an important part of keeping your roof in good condition.
Roof crickets are designed to divert water away from areas of the roof where two planes meet, such as where a chimney protrudes from the roof or where two separate roof pitches join.
To ensure that your roof cricket is working properly and not causing any damage, it is important to check it regularly.
First, inspect the roof cricket for any signs of cracking, splitting, or deterioration.
If the roof cricket is made of asphalt shingles, look for any missing, loose, or broken shingles.
If the roof cricket is made of wood, check for any signs of decay or damage.
If you find any damage, it is important to repair or replace the roof cricket as soon as possible to prevent further damage.
If your roof cricket is in good condition, it is still important to check it regularly to ensure it is functioning properly.
Make sure that the roof cricket is still providing a slope for water to flow away from the roof.
If the roof cricket is not sloped properly, the water may pool in the higher area and cause roof damage or a leak.
To ensure that the roof cricket is still functioning properly, check that it is at the correct angle and that there are no blockages.
If the roof is sloped in the wrong direction, you may need to adjust the angle of the roof cricket to ensure that water is flowing away from the roof.
It is also important to regularly check the roof cricket for any clogged gutters or debris that may be blocking the flow of water away from the roof.
If you find any debris, it is important to remove it as soon as possible to ensure that water is properly diverted away from the roof.
Finally, it is important to regularly inspect the roof cricket for any signs of animal activity.
Animals such as squirrels, raccoons, and birds may try to nest in the roof cricket, and this can cause damage to the cricket and the roof.
If you find any signs of animal activity, it is important to remove the animals and any debris or nests that they have created to prevent further damage.
By regularly inspecting and maintaining your roof cricket, you can ensure that it is functioning properly and preventing water from pooling on the roof and causing damage.
Regularly checking your roof cricket and removing any debris or animal activity can help protect your roof and ensure that it remains in good condition for years to come.
When to Call a Professional
When it comes to roof crickets, there are several times when it’s best to call a professional.
First, if there is a chimney or other structure protruding from the roof, it’s wise to call a professional roofer to install the cricket as getting the correct angle and slope is essential.
Additionally, if you’re dealing with a complex roof shape or multiple roof pitches, a professional can help ensure the cricket is installed correctly to provide the best protection against water pooling.
In some cases, a roof cricket may be made of metal, wood, or slate.
If you’re dealing with one of these materials, it’s best to call a professional to install the cricket.
Each material requires different installation techniques and tools, and a professional can ensure the cricket is installed correctly with the right materials and techniques.
Finally, if you’re dealing with an existing roof cricket that needs to be repaired or replaced, it’s wise to call a professional as they can assess the damage and make sure the roof cricket is in good condition.
If the cricket is in need of repair, they can make the necessary repairs to ensure the roof cricket is providing the best protection against water pooling.
Final Thoughts
All in all, roof crickets are an important structure for diverting water away from areas of a roof where two planes meet.
They provide protection against water damage and can even help reduce the risk of a roof leak.
Roof crickets come in a variety of materials, so it’s important to choose the right type for your roof.
Installing a roof cricket yourself can be a tricky job, so it’s important to know what common mistakes to avoid when doing so.
With proper installation and regular maintenance, roof crickets can last for many years.
If you’re ever in doubt, don’t hesitate to call a professional for help.