07/21/2026
Chimney Saddle (Cricket) Water Diversion System
This model illustrates the installation of a chimney saddle, commonly referred to as a cricket, positioned on the high-slope side of a brick chimney. The saddle creates a peaked, ridged diversion surface designed to prevent rainwater and debris from pooling behind the wide back wall of the masonry structure. By redirecting runoff smoothly around the sides of the chimney, this architectural feature protects the roof deck and flashing from water pe*******on and long-term moisture damage.
Key Elements
Saddle (cricket): A peaked, triangular metal structure installed on the upslope side of the chimney to divert water runoff to either side.
Brick chimney stack: The vertical masonry structure extending through the roof that requires specialized water-shedding components at its base.
Flashing: Layered metal strips installed along the junction of the brickwork and roof shingles to create a watertight seal.
Concrete chimney cap: A solid concrete slab sealing the top of the brickwork to protect the internal masonry from weather exposure.
Clay flue liners: Two rectangular ceramic openings extending through the cap to safely exhaust combustion gases.
Overall Analysis
The model provides a clear visual demonstration of how modifying the geometry of a roof intersection prevents water accumulation against flat barriers. By integrating a sloped cricket with tiered metal flashing, gravity-driven runoff is successfully guided past vulnerable joints and down the main roof slope. This configuration highlights standard building practices essential for maintaining structural integrity and preventing leaks around roof pe*******ons.
