Expert: Dave Johnson - 10/6/2009

Question
I am a contractor with a problem I am having trouble with a roof I replaced The trouble is a stone chimney it was flashed proper by last contractor I did flash it correctly and still got leak I parged the stone with fibre reinforced mortar, water was coming in joints and getting behind flashing we got a bad storm and there still was a leak I noticed wetness under shingles from behind flashing I installed a bed of tar laid fibre mesh and tared again do you think this will work The ceiling is gutted so i no the roof is fine its the flashing I cut out existing flashing and made a cove with tar any advice. I have 25 years experience and am a total lost its my last try before I tear off again and or remove chimney. (i will stick to kitchens and baths )

Answer
Hi David,

Yes, its always fun to go behind someone else!!
Without actually being there this is a hard call. But, it sounds like you have done everything right.
The only thing I would do in your case is wait for the next heavy rain and watch for where the water enters. Then ... more tarring.

I know what you mean, nothing like doing kitchens/baths... fun, inside, and what you're used to...

Best of luck
and let me know

Dave