When planning a shingle roof replacement in Northeastern Pennsylvania (NEPA), many homeowners overlook one important detail: the chimney. Deciding whether to keep, repair, or remove your chimney can impact both your roofing system and your home’s long-term maintenance costs. At 570 New Roof, we help homeowners make the right choice based on safety, function, and budget.
Does Your Chimney Still Serve a Purpose?
The first question to ask is simple: Do you still use your chimney?
If your chimney is connected to a working fireplace, wood stove, or heating system, keeping it is usually the best option. However, if it’s no longer in use, removing it during a roof replacement can save money and prevent future issues.
Unused chimneys are one of the most common sources of roof leaks in NEPA homes. Snow, ice, and heavy rain can wear down flashing and masonry over time. If the chimney isn’t needed, removal can eliminate a major maintenance concern.
Condition of the Chimney
If you plan to keep your chimney, its condition matters. During a roof replacement, it’s the perfect time to inspect for:
- Cracked or deteriorating bricks
- Damaged mortar joints
- Failing chimney flashing
- Leaning or structural instability
In NEPA’s freeze-thaw climate, chimney damage is very common. Water gets into small cracks, freezes, and expands—making the problem worse each winter.
If the chimney is in poor shape, you’ll need to decide whether to repair or rebuild it. In some cases, removal may be the more cost-effective option.
Flashing and Leak Prevention
Chimney flashing is one of the most critical parts of your roofing system. Even a brand-new shingle roof can leak if the flashing around the chimney isn’t installed properly.
At 570 New Roof, we always recommend replacing chimney flashing during a roof replacement. This ensures a watertight seal and helps protect your home from costly water damage.
If you’re keeping your chimney, investing in high-quality flashing is a must—especially with NEPA’s heavy rain and snow.
Benefits of Removing a Chimney
For homeowners who no longer use their chimney, removal offers several advantages:
- Eliminates a common leak point
- Reduces long-term maintenance costs
- Improves roof appearance and simplicity
- Prevents future structural issues
Removing a chimney during a roof replacement is often more affordable than doing it later, since roofing materials are already being replaced.
Making the Right Decision
Every home is different. The right choice depends on how you use your chimney, its current condition, and your long-term plans.
If you’re unsure, a professional inspection can help you weigh the pros and cons. At 570 New Roof, we provide honest recommendations to homeowners throughout Wilkes-Barre, Scranton, and all of NEPA.
Contact 570 New Roof
If you’re planning a shingle roof replacement and wondering what to do about your chimney, we’re here to help.
570 New Roof
📞 (570) 332-1223
🌐 www.570newroof.com
📧 office@theroofrepairguys.com
Get expert advice and a free estimate today—your NEPA roofing specialists you can trust.