Chimney Caps & Rain Flashing in Vancouver

Flashing is the metal barrier that seals the joint between your chimney and your roof. It is one of the most common places for leaks, because the roof and chimney move differently over time and the seal is always exposed to weather.

​

Types of flashing

• Base flashing: Sits against the roof and directs water away from the chimney

• Step flashing: Layered pieces that follow the slope of the roof along the chimney sides

• Counterflashing: Set into the mortar joints and overlapping the base flashing to keep water from running behind it

• Saddle (cricket) flashing: A small peaked section behind wider chimneys that sheds water around them

​

Benefits of Lead flashing

• Extreme Flexibility and Malleability: Lead is a soft, workable metal that can be hand-formed and dressed on-site to hug the complex geometry of brickwork, mortar joints, corners, and roof tiles. Unlike rigid metals like aluminum or galvanized steel, it easily conforms without cracking.

• Accommodates Thermal Movement: Chimneys and roofs expand and contract at different rates due to seasonal temperature shifts. Lead flexes with these slight structural movements rather than pulling away or splitting. 

• Superior Longevity: A properly installed lead flashing system can last several decades (often 30 years or more) outlasting many modern substitutes.

• Seamless Water Channeling: It is ideal for multi-part chimney sealing—including the front apron, step flashing tucked into mortar joints, counter-flashing, and back gutters—which effectively deflects rain away from the vulnerable roof-to-chimney intersection.

• Aesthetic and Non-Staining Aging: Unlike copper, which can leach green stains onto surrounding shingles or masonry, lead naturally weathers to a clean, neutral gray patina that blends well with historic and modern designs.