Guide
Chimney cap and crown work: when the roof bid must include the masonry top
Written by Ultra Power Construction. The credentials page states that this contractor is licensed and insured in New Jersey and lists GAF and Owens Corning programs. Updated 2026-09-28.
Montclair, Morristown, and Madison chimneys leak from the crown and cap as often as from the step flashing. A new roof around a cracked crown still lets water in. The decision is whether the estimate includes cap, crown, and counterflashing work or only shingles up to the brick.
- Crown cracks are a roofing-adjacent failure
- Caps keep weather and animals out of the flue
- Counterflashing ties masonry to the new roof
Crown cracks are a roofing-adjacent failure
A broken concrete crown channels water into the flue and the chimney chase. Sealing or rebuilding the crown belongs in the conversation when the roof is open.
Caps keep weather and animals out of the flue
A missing or rusted cap lets rain straight down the flue. Stainless or copper caps are a small line that prevents a large interior stain.
Counterflashing ties masonry to the new roof
Step flashing alone is not enough if the counterflashing reglet in the brick is open. Ask whether masonry counterflashing is cut in or surface-sealed, and price the better detail.