Chimney Flashing Repair — Stop Roof Leaks at the Source
In Wheeling, IL
Chimney flashing is the metal seal between your chimney and your roof — and when it fails, water gets in. Flashing failure is one of the most common causes of r…
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Is Your Chimney Showing These Warning Signs?
If you notice even one of these warning signs, it may be time to schedule a professional chimney inspection.
Water stains on the ceiling directly adjacent to the chimney
Water stains on the ceiling or walls adjacent to the chimney are the most common sign of failed flashing at the roof junction.
Visible gaps between the flashing and the chimney masonry
Visible gaps or rust between the metal flashing and the chimney mortar mean the watertight seal has broken down.
Rust stains running down the chimney exterior
Peeling paint or damp drywall near the fireplace interior often traces back to flashing failure rather than a roof leak.
Flashing that's pulling away from the chimney or roof
Caulk or tar patches on the flashing (sign of previous amateur repairs)
Water in the firebox after rain
Not sure? A quick inspection tells you for certain.
We provide written inspection reports with every visit — upfront, no surprises.
What Customers Say About Our Chimney Flashing Repair
"I had an excellent experience with Gem Chimney in Schaumburg, IL. They replaced my old furnace metal chimney, repaired my gutter, installed new roof shingles, and fixed my leaking windows. Their crew was professional, on time, and explained everything clearly. The quality of the workmanship was outstanding, and everything was cleaned up when the job was finished. Gem Chimney had the best price by far without sacrificing quality. Highly recommend!"
Nidhish Abraham
August 2026
"Eli is professional, patient and thorough. Did not try to upsell me which makes me want to call him when I actually need a big job. Highly recommend his services!"
Michael Nagle
August 2026
"Had an excellent experience with GEM. Eli was excellent and quoted me a very competitive price and was able to get the work completed immediately."
Josh Odom
July 2026
Water entering through failed flashing can travel inside wall cavities and attic spaces for months before becoming visible as a ceiling stain. By the time you see the stain, the water may have already caused mold growth and structural damage to roof decking and framing.
What Is Chimney Flashing Repair?
Chimney flashing consists of two components: step flashing (L-shaped pieces of metal that interleave with the roof shingles along the sides of the chimney) and counter flashing (metal that's embedded in the chimney mortar joints and laps over the step flashing). Together, they create a watertight seal at the chimney-roof junction. Flashing is typically made of aluminum, galvanized steel, or copper. Over time, the mortar holding counter flashing in place deteriorates, the metal corrodes or separates, and the seal fails.
Expert Tip from GEM
If you see caulk or tar patches on your chimney flashing, a previous owner or roofer tried to fix a leak with a temporary patch. Caulk fails within 1–3 seasons. The only permanent fix is proper step and counter flashing installation. Don't let a roofer talk you into another caulk patch.
Before & After
Before GEM
Counter flashing pulling away from chimney mortar joints. Step flashing corroded and separated from shingles. Water entering at chimney-roof junction, staining ceiling adjacent to chimney.
After GEM
New step and counter flashing properly installed and embedded in fresh mortar. All joints sealed with roofing sealant. Leak stopped. Surrounding roof area inspected for related damage.
Our Chimney Flashing Repair Process
Leak source confirmation
We inspect the full chimney-roof junction to confirm flashing failure is the source of the leak and identify whether step flashing, counter flashing, or both need attention — ruling out crown and cap as contributing factors.
Old flashing removal
We carefully remove the failed flashing, clean the substrate, and prepare the chimney mortar joints for new counter flashing installation. We remove all old caulk and tar patches.
New flashing installation
We install new step and counter flashing using appropriate materials (aluminum, galvanized steel, or copper), properly interlacing with the roof shingles and embedding counter flashing in fresh mortar.
Sealing and final inspection
We apply a high-quality roofing sealant at all joints and transitions, and inspect the surrounding roof area for any related damage that should be addressed.
Why Homeowners Choose GEM for Chimney Flashing Repair
Registered in Illinois
We operate as a registered business in Illinois — not a fly-by-night operation.
Fully Insured
General liability insurance protects you and your home on every job.
Written Inspection Reports
Every service includes a written report documenting what was found and completed.
Upfront Pricing
The technician inspects first and gives you an exact written price on-site before any work begins. No surprises on the invoice.
Same-Day Scheduling
Urgent situations get priority — same-day appointments available when needed.
10+ Years Serving Cook and Lake County
We've built our reputation one honest job at a time across 24 communities.
Schedule Chimney Flashing Repair Today
Same-day scheduling available when possible.
Frequently Asked Questions About Chimney Flashing Repair
Because we can't see your chimney over the phone. Every home is different, and guessing a price leads to surprises. The $69 covers a registered technician's visit, a full inspection with a written report, and an exact on-site quote. If you approve the work, the $69 is deducted from your final bill.
Flashing leaks typically show up as water stains on the ceiling directly adjacent to the chimney, especially after rain. Crown leaks tend to cause water inside the firebox. Liner leaks can cause staining on the chimney breast. We perform a thorough diagnosis to identify the exact source before recommending any repair.
Caulk is a temporary fix at best. It doesn't address the underlying failure of the flashing system, and it typically fails within a season or two. Proper flashing repair or replacement is the only long-term solution.
Properly installed aluminum or galvanized steel flashing lasts 15–25 years. Copper flashing can last 50 years or more. The mortar holding counter flashing in place typically needs to be refreshed every 10–15 years even when the metal itself is in good condition.
Related Services
Chimney Flashing Repair — All Service Areas
We provide chimney flashing repair throughout the Cook and Lake County. Click your city for local pricing and details.