Have you heard of roof crickets? They play a crucial role in redirecting water away from vulnerable areas of your roof, like chimneys and valleys. If you’re curious about roof crickets and whether your home needs one, this blog post has the answers. In our comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the factors influencing roof cricket costs and provide estimated figures to assist with budget planning. Stay tuned for expert insights on achieving optimal water diversion with roof crickets. Get ready to protect your roof and keep your home dry with this essential knowledge!
What Is A Roof Cricket?
A roof cricket, also known as a chimney saddle, is a small roof structure built behind a chimney that diverts water away and helps to prevent pooling behind the chimney and eventual leaks.
Roof crickets are typically made of wood or metal and are often covered with the same roofing material as the rest of the roof. They are generally triangular, with a slope that directs water away from the chimney.
Roof crickets are an essential part of roof drainage and are required by building codes in some areas. If you have a chimney on your roof, it is a good idea to have a roof cricket installed to help protect your home from water damage.
The Purpose Of A Roof Cricket
The primary purpose of a roof cricket is to ensure proper water drainage. When rainwater or melting snow accumulates around chimneys, it can seep into the underlying structures, leading to water damage, rot, or mold growth. Installing a roof cricket directs water away from these vulnerable areas, reducing the risk of moisture-related issues.
If you want to delve deeper into the workings of roof cricket and why they matter, check out our blog post: What Is A Roof Cricket: Everything You Should Know.
Benefits Of Installing A Roof Cricket
There are several benefits to installing a roof cricket:
- Water Diversion: A roof cricket effectively diverts water away from chimneys, walls, or other protrusions, preventing water damage and protecting the structure of your home.
- Improved Structural Integrity: By preventing water pooling and infiltration, a roof cricket helps maintain the structural integrity of your roof and the underlying components.
- Enhanced Longevity: Proper water drainage reduces the risk of water-related damage, extending the lifespan of your roof and limiting the likelihood of costly repairs or replacements.
- Prevents Ice Dams: In colder climates, a roof cricket can help prevent the formation of ice dams by directing melting snow away from vulnerable areas.

How Much Does A Roof Cricket Cost?
Typically, when installing a cricket as part of a roof repair or replacement project, the costs can vary depending on various factors. During a roof repair, the installation of a cricket is typically between $700 to $1,000. If a cricket needs to be built as a separate project, the cost may fall between $150 and $500. For an entire roof replacement that includes adding a roof cricket, the overall cost typically ranges from $5,000 to $9,000.
The cost of a roof cricket is influenced by factors such as the size of the chimney, the material, the complexity of the roof’s structure, and the labor costs in your area.
At Trusted Roofing, we understand the importance of providing transparent pricing to homeowners. That’s why we offer free estimates and roof inspections. Whether you require a roof repair or cricket installation, you can rely on our team to deliver fair pricing and flawless service.
Conclusion
Even if building codes do not require roof crickets, they are still an essential part of your roof. If you are concerned about water damage, a roof cricket can help to give you peace of mind.
If you want a roof cricket installed on your home, contact Trusted Roofing today. We can help determine if a roof cricket is necessary for your roof and will walk you through every step of the installation process. Contact us today at (615) 714-4300 to schedule a consultation.
FAQs
A. Yes, larger chimneys may require more materials and labor, impacting the overall cost.
A. Roof crickets are typically made of metal or roofing material that matches the rest of the roof.
A. Yes, if the roof repair project includes installing a roof cricket, there may be additional costs involved.
A. There are a few drawbacks to having a roof cricket, including:
A. The installation of a roof cricket typically takes a few hours.
A. It is best to have a roof cricket installed by a qualified professional. This will ensure that the cricket is installed properly and that it will function effectively.
A. If you notice any of the following signs, you may need a roof cricket: