Get matched with top fire pit installation pros in Seabrook, TX

In addition to flashing, a roof cricket can help divert water around your chimney so that it drains properly off your roof. It’s shaped like a double triangle and is installed behind the chimney so that falling water spills evenly down each side. This helps prevent water from accumulating behind your chimney, which can increase water damage and the risk of leaks. 

The International Building Code (IBC) requires cricket installation if a chimney built after 2012 measures over 30 inches in width. Chimneys constructed before that date are typically grandfathered in and aren’t required to have crickets installed.

Attics often contain a mix of insulation, electrical wiring, and other materials that can pose fire risks. That’s why furnaces should be installed in the attic with proper insulation and clearance from combustible materials. Additionally, the furnace should be equipped with proper ventilation and heat shields to prevent the buildup of excessive heat in the attic space. Regular inspections and maintenance are also crucial to identify and address any potential fire hazards.

Home insurance prices depend on where you live and the individual insurance company's policies. Some insurers charge a flat fee for fireplaces or wood-burning stoves, which is often a few hundred dollars per year. Other insurers base this fee on a percentage of your annual premium. You may want to check your current or prospective policy before beginning this project.

A hot fire alone will not remove significant creosote buildup and can be dangerous, as it risks causing a chimney fire. While the warmth from a fire can help loosen stuck tar, making treatments like creosote logs more effective, it is not a substitute for proper cleaning. For existing creosote, the safest and most effective method is to have your chimney professionally cleaned by a chimney sweep.