How Much Does Chimney Flashing Repair Cost in San Francisco, CA? (2026)

Average Cost

$824–$1,374

Materials

$195–$395

Labor (San Francisco)

$439–$662

Labor rates in San Francisco are +35% compared to Sacramento Metro baseline.

Chimney flashing is the most common source of roof leaks. The junction between the chimney and roof requires step flashing woven into the shingle courses, counter flashing embedded in the mortar joints, and a cricket (saddle) on the uphill side to divert water. Over time, caulk fails, mortar deteriorates, and flashing corrodes, allowing water to penetrate. Our chimney flashing repair includes removing old flashing, installing new step and counter flashing (aluminum or copper), building or repairing the cricket, and sealing all joints. This targeted repair prevents water damage to the attic, walls, and ceiling below.

NorCal's heavy winter rains and driving winds are the primary cause of chimney flashing failures. Annual inspection of chimney flashing before the rainy season prevents costly water damage.

San Francisco is located in San Francisco County (San Francisco). Iconic fog city with Victorian painted ladies, Edwardian flats, and modern high-rises. The local utility provider is PG&E.

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City

Chimneys

Materials Included

Aluminum Step Flashing (5x7, per bundle of 100)1 bundle

$35–$65

Aluminum Counter Flashing (custom-bent)1 set

$40–$90

Cricket/Saddle Framing & Metal1 set

$60–$130

Polyurethane Sealant & Mortar Mix1 kit

$20–$40

Ice & Water Shield (chimney area)1 roll

$40–$70

Labor(San Francisco +35%)

Roofing Technician4h @ $74–$115/hr

$297–$459

Roofing Helper3h @ $47–$68/hr

$142–$203

Contractor Markup30%

0%Avg 30%100%

Materials

$195–$395

Labor

$439–$662

Markup

$190–$317

Estimated Total Cost

$824 – $1,374

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California Building Code

California Building Code requires a cricket (saddle) on the uphill side of any chimney wider than 30 inches measured perpendicular to the slope. Flashing must be corrosion-resistant metal (aluminum, copper, or galvanized steel) and integrated with the roofing system.

Project Timeline

Old Flashing Removal

1-2 hrs

Carefully remove existing step flashing, counter flashing, and deteriorated sealant. Pull up shingles around the chimney as needed to access the full flashing area. Inspect the deck for water damage.

Waterproofing & Cricket

1-2 hrs

Apply ice-and-water shield membrane around the chimney base. Build or repair the cricket (saddle) on the uphill side to divert water around the chimney. Sheet the cricket with metal.

New Flashing Installation

2-3 hrs

Install new step flashing woven with each shingle course. Bend and install counter flashing into chimney mortar joints (reglet-cut or surface-mounted). Seal the top edge of counter flashing into the mortar with polyurethane sealant.

Shingle Repair & Water Test

1 hr

Reinstall shingles around the chimney, sealing all exposed nail heads. Hose-test the chimney from the uphill side to verify water-tight performance. Clean up all debris.

Materials Breakdown

Material	Qty	Unit	Unit Cost	Total
Aluminum Step Flashing (5x7, per bundle of 100)	1	bundle	$35–$65	$35–$65
Aluminum Counter Flashing (custom-bent)	1	set	$40–$90	$40–$90
Cricket/Saddle Framing & Metal	1	set	$60–$130	$60–$130
Polyurethane Sealant & Mortar Mix	1	kit	$20–$40	$20–$40
Ice & Water Shield (chimney area)	1	roll	$40–$70	$40–$70

Chimney Flashing Repair in San Francisco — FAQ

How much does chimney flashing repair cost?+

Chimney flashing repair in NorCal costs $500-$1,500 depending on chimney size, accessibility, and whether a cricket needs to be built. Full flashing replacement with a new cricket runs $1,000-$2,000.

How do I know if my chimney flashing is leaking?+

Look for water stains on the ceiling or walls near the chimney, especially after rain. In the attic, check for moisture, dark staining, or rot on the framing around the chimney. Visible gaps between the flashing and chimney are a clear sign.

What is a chimney cricket and do I need one?+

A cricket (also called a saddle) is a peaked structure on the uphill side of a chimney that diverts water around it. Building code requires a cricket on any chimney wider than 30 inches on the uphill side. Without one, water pools behind the chimney and eventually leaks.

Should I use aluminum or copper flashing?+

Aluminum is the standard choice and lasts 20-30 years. Copper lasts 50+ years and develops a beautiful patina but costs 3-4x more. For most NorCal homes, aluminum flashing is the best value.