WHAT IS A ROOFING CRICKET? WHY ARE THEY NEEDED?
What is a Roofing Cricket?
A roof cricket, also known as a saddle, is a triangular-shaped
structure designed to divert water and debris away from vertical
protrusions on a roof surface, such as chimneys, skylights, or HVAC
units. Its main purpose is to prevent water from pooling at the base
of these obstacles, which can lead to leaks, wood rot, mold, and
damage to the roof structure and flashing over time. Crickets act as a
“water traffic cop” to ensure continuous water flow towards drains or
gutters, thus extending the lifespan of the entire roofing system.
Roof Crickets for Flat Roofs and TPO Membrane Systems
For TPO (thermoplastic polyolefin) or other low-sloped and flat roofs,
crickets are designed and installed differently but serve the same
primary function of ensuring positive drainage. Instead of wood
framing, they are typically constructed using tapered rigid insulation
panels that are laid on top of the roof deck and then covered entirely
with the TPO membrane to create a continuous, watertight seal. These
crickets often have a steeper slope than the main roof to actively
force water towards drains or scuppers and prevent ponding, which is a
major cause of membrane failure on flat roofs. Their shape can be a
full diamond pattern (between two drains) or a quarter diamond (in a
corner by a parapet wall).
Chimney Roof Crickets for Shingle and Steep-Slope Roofs
On shingled, or steep-sloped, roofs, crickets are typically
custom-built with wood framing and sheathing, then covered with the
same asphalt shingles or durable metal flashing used on the rest of
the roof to create a seamless appearance. They are most commonly
installed on the high (upslope) side of chimneys, especially if the
chimney is wider than 30 inches, as this is where water and snowmelt
naturally accumulate. The cricket’s pitch (slope) is usually the same
as or slightly less than the main roof’s slope and serves to split the
flow of water and direct it around the sides of the obstruction and
down the roof to the gutters.
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