Fireplaces are not exactly the most efficient heating systems around, but nothing compares to the beauty and coziness that only a real fire dancing in a hearth can bring. If you are thinking about having one installed in your home, it’s important to consider how it will impact the roof’s structure. Read on as Peak Construction Roofing shares insight on how fireplace installation affects roofing systems.
Improper Flashing Increases the Risks of Leaks
Usually, the chimney is built first because it’s far easier to build the roof around and install flashing around a built chimney stack. If you are building a new chimney on an existing roof, it means cutting a hole and making sure that the part that penetrates the roof plane has proper flashing. This underlines the importance of working with an experienced contractor, as improper installation methods increase the risk of roofing leaks.
Structural Integrity Must Be Ensured
Even though the fireplace is more a part of the exterior wall than it is of the roof, it can affect the house’s structural integrity if not built properly. The fireplace won’t be just part of the roof, but of the entire structure. When planning a fireplace installation, consulting a structural engineer may be required to determine if the house is suitable for fireplace installation, or how much work will be needed to make it suitable. In some cases, an exterior wall and/or the roof framing may need to be reinforced.
It Has Inherent Risks of Fire Hazards
One of the primary concerns with having a fireplace is the potential fire hazard. Code-compliant fireplaces have insulation and protection from creosote and embers, which may ignite flammable materials on the roof, like dry branches or even wood shakes.
Greater Maintenance Requirements
Having a chimney means adopting a more rigorous maintenance routine. In addition to annual maintenance appointments, you have to keep an eye out for signs of potential issues like water stains, dislodged flashing and noises coming from the fireplace.
Not sure if your roof is suitable for chimney installation? Get in touch with our team at Peak Construction Roofing by giving us a call at (218) 728-8033, (218) 749-0859 or (715) 699-1167. You can also fill out our contact form to schedule a consultation.