What You Need To Know:
If you own a home in Northeastern Pennsylvania (NEPA), your roof needs to handle heavy rain, snow, and ice. One small but important feature that helps protect your home is a roof cricket. Many homeowners don’t know what a cricket is, but it plays a big role in preventing leaks and extending the life of your roof.
What Is a Roof Cricket?
A roof cricket (also called a saddle) is a small, peaked structure built on the high side of a chimney or other roof penetration. Its main job is to divert water away from areas where it can collect.
You’ll most often see crickets installed behind chimneys. Without one, water can pool in that spot. Over time, this standing water can seep under shingles and cause serious damage.
Why Roof Crickets Matter in NEPA
In NEPA, roofs deal with harsh weather conditions year-round. Snow, ice, and heavy rain all increase the risk of water damage. This is where a roof cricket becomes essential.
A properly installed cricket helps:
- Prevent water pooling behind chimneys
- Reduce the risk of roof leaks
- Stop ice dams from forming in winter
- Protect shingles and flashing
- Extend the lifespan of your roof
Building codes often require a cricket for chimneys wider than 30 inches. This is because wider chimneys are more likely to trap water without proper drainage.
How a Roof Cricket Works
A roof cricket is designed with a small ridge that splits water and directs it down both sides of the roof. This keeps water moving instead of sitting in one place.
Crickets are typically:
- Framed with wood
- Covered with shingles or metal to match your roof
- Sealed with flashing and waterproof underlayment
When installed correctly, a cricket blends into your roof while providing strong protection against water intrusion.
Signs You May Need a Roof Cricket
Many older homes in NEPA do not have crickets, or they may have been poorly installed. If that’s the case, you could be at risk for leaks.
Look for these warning signs:
- Water stains near your chimney
- Leaks during heavy rain or snow melt
- Shingle damage behind a chimney
- Ice buildup in winter
- Debris collecting in one area of your roof
If you notice any of these issues, it’s time to have your roof inspected by a professional.
Trust The Roof Repair Guys in NEPA
At The Roof Repair Guys, we specialize in identifying problem areas like missing or damaged roof crickets. Our team understands the unique weather challenges in NEPA and provides solutions that last.
Whether you need a new cricket installed or repairs to an existing one, we’re here to help protect your home from costly water damage.
Contact The Roof Repair Guys Today:
📞 (570) 332-1223
🌐 www.theroofrepairguys.com
📧 office@theroofrepairguys.com
Serving homeowners across Northeastern Pennsylvania (NEPA) with trusted roofing solutions.