What Is A Roof Cricket? Complete Guide To Roof Crickets, Installation, And Roofing Protection

A roof cricket is a vital but often overlooked feature for managing water flow and preventing roof leaks, especially behind large chimneys or at roof intersections. This guide explores what a roof cricket is, why it’s needed, different designs, materials, installation techniques, and how it protects American homes from costly water damage.

Roof Cricket Quick Reference Table

Feature	Details
Definition	Small, built-up structure on a roof to divert water away from seams, chimneys, or valleys
Main Purpose	Prevents water pooling and directs water around roof obstacles
Typical Placement	Behind chimneys, at roof intersections, near large penetrations
Common Materials	Asphalt shingles, metal flashing, modified bitumen, or built from wood framing
Required By Code?	Often required by International Residential Code (IRC) for chimneys wider than 30 inches
Benefits	Reduces leaks, increases roof lifespan, decreases maintenance costs

Defining A Roof Cricket

A roof cricket is a small, peaked structure constructed on the high side of a chimney, wall, or other roof penetration. Its primary function is to split and divert water around the obstacle to prevent pooling where water flow is interrupted. Sometimes called a saddle, cricket, or saddleback, it is an essential component in modern roofing design.

Why Roof Crickets Are Important

Water pooling is one of the main causes of roof leaks, rot, and structural damage. Without a roof cricket, water can collect behind chimneys or where roof slopes meet, seeping under shingles and through flashing. Over time, this leads to costly damage such as wood rot, mold, interior leaks, and even compromised roof decking.

Roof crickets redirect water so it is channeled safely towards gutters or roof valleys, preserving both the roof and the structure beneath.

Typical Situations Where Roof Crickets Are Installed

• Behind Large Chimneys: When a chimney is wider than 30 inches on the upslope side, a cricket is often required by building codes to prevent water accumulation.
• Where Two Roof Slopes Meet: Crickets help manage runoff at intersecting roof seams or valleys.
• At Skylights Or HVAC Units: Any large obstacle that disrupts normal water flow may need a cricket for protection.
• On Low-Slope Roofs: Low-pitch or flat roofs are especially vulnerable to water pooling, increasing the need for crickets.

How Roof Crickets Work

Roof crickets use basic principles of physics to divide and direct the flow of water. The peaked structure parts the water, sending it around obstacles instead of allowing it to pool at the base. This redirection is crucial for keeping flashings, underlayment, and roof decks dry.

Properly designed and installed, crickets shed water quickly even during heavy rain or snow melt, greatly decreasing the risk of leaks.

Common Roof Cricket Designs

Simple Shed Cricket

This is a basic, single-slope structure built up behind smaller chimneys or obstructions. It channels water to one side.

Symmetrical Gable (Peaked) Cricket

The most common design resembles a small gable roof, directing water equally to both sides of the chimney or penetration. Provides the best protection for large chimneys.

Custom or Asymmetrical Crickets

For unusual roof shapes or obstructions, crickets may be designed with unique slopes or shapes to fit the roof’s geometry and drainage needs.

Materials Used For Roof Crickets

• Wood Framing: The core structure is usually constructed from pressure-treated wood, similar to standard roof framing.
• Roofing Underlayment: Ice-and-water shield or felt is applied to protect from moisture infiltration.
• Metal Flashing: Essential for waterproofing, especially on low-pitch crickets. Galvanized steel, aluminum, or copper are common choices.
• Shingles: Asphalt, wood, or composite shingles are often installed over the cricket to match the main roof for a seamless appearance.
• Single-Ply Membrane / Bitumen: Flat or low-slope crickets may use rolled roofing or membrane materials for better waterproofing.

Building Codes And Roof Cricket Requirements

According to the International Residential Code (IRC R1003.20 and R903.2.2), all chimneys or roof penetrations over 30 inches wide must have a cricket or saddle installed on the upslope side. Local building codes in most U.S. jurisdictions enforce this rule for new homes and re-roofing projects. Roofers and inspectors often check for proper cricket installation during roofing work around chimneys.

Step-By-Step Roof Cricket Installation Process

1. Site Assessment: The roofing contractor measures the size and pitch of the chimney or obstruction and determines drainage patterns.
2. Frame Construction: Using treated lumber, a peaked or sloped structure is built to fit snugly behind the chimney and tie into the existing roof slope.
3. Waterproofing: An underlayment is laid to protect wood framing from moisture.
4. Flashing Installation: Sheet metal flashing is carefully installed along the joint between the cricket and chimney to prevent leaks.
5. Roof Covering: The cricket is covered with shingles, membrane, or metal as required to match the surrounding roof.
6. Testing & Inspection: Water flow is evaluated to ensure the cricket performs as intended, and the finished work is checked for code compliance.

Proper Sizing And Slope For Roof Crickets

Correct sizing and slope are crucial for cricket effectiveness. The width should match or exceed that of the obstruction. The slope typically matches or is slightly steeper than the main roof pitch to speed up water movement. For chimneys, the IRC recommends a minimum slope of 1/2:12, but 2:12 or more is optimal in areas with heavy rainfall or snow.

Main Roof Pitch	Recommended Cricket Pitch
4:12	4:12 or 6:12
6:12	6:12 or steeper
Flat	At least 1/2:12 with waterproofing membrane

Advantages Of Installing Roof Crickets

• Prevents Water Damage: By eliminating pooling, crickets keep the roof deck and framing dry.
• Extends Roof Life: Proper drainage reduces wear on shingles and flashings.
• Saves On Repairs: Investing in crickets minimizes expensive structural repairs over time.
• Improves Roof Appearance: Seamless integration with chimney or obstacle enhances curb appeal.
• Code Compliance: Satisfies building inspector requirements for resale or insurance.

Common Signs A Roof Cricket May Be Needed

• Repeated leaks behind a chimney or where two slopes meet
• Ponding water after rainstorms
• Excessive shingle wear behind a chimney
• Visible sagging or rot in roof decking
• Dampness or water staining on attic interior near chimneys

Roof Cricket Costs In The United States

Installing a cricket is a specialized job. Typical installation cost ranges from $400 to $1200, depending on roof pitch, size of the chimney or obstruction, materials used, and local labor rates. Complex roofs or high-value materials (such as copper flashing) can increase costs. However, the expense is minor compared to potential repair costs from water damage.

Roof Cricket Maintenance Tips

• Annual Inspections: Check crickets during seasonal roof inspections, especially after storms.
• Clear Debris: Remove leaves, sticks, or ice dams that can block water flow.
• Examine Flashing: Ensure flashing remains properly sealed and in good repair.
• Spot Check For Leaks: Scan for water intrusion or rot in adjacent attic spaces.
• Recoat Or Repair: Touch up sealant or repair shingles and flashing as needed.

Roof Cricket Design For Special Roof Types

Metal Roofs

Crickets for metal roofs are often constructed entirely with metal and integrate custom-fabricated standing seam, panel, or ribbed metal sheets. Precision is critical to ensure water cannot penetrate seams.

Tile Roofs

Tile crickets require careful flashing and waterproof underlayments, as tiles can be difficult to adapt to complex forms. Extra attention is paid to transitions and joining techniques.

Low-Slope Or Flat Roofs

On low-slope roofs (less than 2:12 pitch), crickets are typically built up with insulation or rigid foam, then covered with fully adhered membrane or bitumen for a continuous waterproof seal.

DIY Vs. Professional Roof Cricket Installation

Due to the risk of leaks and the need for precise integration with roof flashing, most homeowners should hire a professional roofer to build and install crickets. Mistakes in framing, flashing, or waterproofing can quickly result in costly internal water damage. A licensed contractor will ensure code compliance and proper water management.

For skilled DIYers with roofing experience, smaller shed-style crickets on shingle roofs may be possible, but proper integration with the chimney flashing and roof surface is essential.

Comparing Roof Crickets, Saddles, And Diverters

Feature	Cricket	Saddle	Diverter
Purpose	Directs water around chimney/obstacle	Same as cricket	Divers water at roof edge or valleys
Construction	Built up, peaked structure	Interchangeable with cricket	Simple flashing or strip
Typical Placement	Behind chimney or roof junction	Behind chimney	Roof edge, valleys, or above entryways

While the terms “saddle” and “cricket” are often used interchangeably, diverters are different—they are typically simple flashings that redirect water on flat surfaces or edges and are not peaked structures.

Roof Cricket Myths And Misunderstandings

• Myth: Crickets are only needed on steep roofs—In reality, low-slope roofs benefit even more from crickets because water drains more slowly.
• Myth: Metal flashing alone is enough—Flashing is essential but cannot replace the function of a properly sized and structured cricket for water diversion.
• Myth: Small chimneys don’t need crickets—Even smaller chimneys can accumulate water at the upslope base, especially during heavy storms or ice melt.

Adapting Roof Crickets For Regional Climates In The U.S.

• Snow-Prone Regions: Crickets are built with steeper slopes and must support heavy snow loads, shedding water and ice faster to prevent buildup and freeze-thaw leaks.
• Rainy Climates: Wider, more pronounced crickets may be used to accelerate drainage and withstand torrential flows.
• Arid Zones: Simpler crickets suffice where rainfall or snow is less frequent, but code requirements still apply for code compliance and insurance eligibility.

How Roof Crickets Integrate With Other Roofing Systems

• Gutters: Roof crickets work in tandem with gutters to efficiently channel diverted water away from the roof and foundation.
• Valleys: In complex roofs, crickets may feed directly into valleys, optimizing roof drainage.
• Flashing Systems: High-quality flashing must overlap and seal cricket joints for maximum protection.
• Attic Ventilation: By preventing leaks, crickets help maintain attic dryness, which supports healthy ventilation and indoor air quality.

Choosing A Roofing Contractor For Roof Cricket Installation

Look for licensed, insured roofing contractors with references and experience in cricket construction. Ensure they are familiar with local code requirements and can provide guarantees on their work. Ask about materials, flashing integration, and how water flow will be tested after installation.

If re-roofing, a reputable contractor will proactively recommend cricket installation or repair as part of the project scope.

Frequently Asked Questions About Roof Crickets

• Q: Can you add a cricket to an existing roof? A: Yes, a cricket can be retrofitted during re-roofing or as a stand-alone project, especially if there have been leak issues.
• Q: How long do roof crickets last? A: With quality materials and proper installation, a roof cricket lasts as long as the rest of the roofing system—typically 20-30 years or more.
• Q: Do all chimneys need a cricket? A: Only chimneys wider than 30 inches require crickets by code, but installing on smaller chimneys can still be beneficial.
• Q: What if my home inspector mentions a missing cricket? A: This indicates noncompliance with modern code standards or a risk of leaks. Consult a roofer to add one before leaks develop.

How To Maintain And Inspect A Roof Cricket

• Visually inspect for missing shingles, torn flashing, or debris blockage at least twice per year and after major storms.
• Clean gutters and valleys to ensure cricket-diverted water can exit freely.
• Check attic spaces behind chimneys for water stains or damp wood—these are signs of cricket leakage or overflow.
• Apply flashing cement or silicone caulk at seams if minor gaps develop over time.
• Schedule professional inspections every 2–3 years, especially in older homes or before roof replacement.

The Bottom Line: Roof Crickets Are Essential For Modern Roof Protection

A roof cricket is a smart investment for preventing leaks and avoiding costly repairs, whether in a new build or as an upgrade to an older home. With proper design, installation, and maintenance, crickets keep chimneys, valleys, and the entire roofing system safe from water intrusion—helping American homeowners protect their most valuable asset for decades to come.