When it comes to protecting your home from water damage, every roofing detail matters — including components you may have never heard of before, like a roof cricket.
If you’re wondering, “What is a roof cricket and do I need to build a cricket?”, then you are in the right place.
In this guide, we’ll explain what a roof cricket is, why it’s important, and when it’s necessary to install one.
What is a Roof Cricket?
A roof cricket, also called a saddle, is a small, peaked structure built on the high side of a chimney or at roof intersections. Its main purpose is to divert water around the chimney or other roof penetrations and prevent water pooling.
Roof crickets are typically made of the same materials as the roof — such as shingles, metal, or a waterproof membrane — and are often installed during new roof installations or major roof repairs.
Why Are Roof Crickets Important?
Water is the enemy of roofs. Any standing water can eventually seep under shingles, rot the roofing structure, and cause interior leaks. Roof crickets help:
Prevent Water Pooling: They direct rainwater and snowmelt away from vulnerable areas.
Reduce Leak Risk: Especially around chimneys, which are a common source of leaks.
Extend Roof Life: By minimizing water damage, crickets contribute to longer-lasting roofs.
Improve Drainage: Roofs with multiple slopes or valleys benefit from better overall water flow.
Without a properly installed cricket, your roof is much more vulnerable to leaks, mold growth, and costly repairs.
Where Are Roof Crickets Installed?
Roof crickets are typically installed:
Behind chimneys wider than 30 inches (building codes often require it at this width).
Where two slopes meet to form a valley prone to water accumulation.
Around large HVAC units or skylights that disrupt normal water flow.
While chimneys cricket are the most common reason to install a roof cricket, any structure that interrupts a continuous slope can benefit from one.
What Materials Are Used for Roof Crickets?
The materials used for roof cricket or saddle usually match the rest of your roof for a seamless appearance. Some popular materials include:
Asphalt Shingles: Most common for residential homes.
Metal: Often used for commercial roofs or for added durability.
Modified Bitumen or TPO Membranes: Common for flat or low-slope roofing systems.
The underlying structure is typically framed with wood and covered with flashing and roofing materials to ensure complete waterproofing.
Types of Roof Crickets
There are different types of roof crickets depending on the size, roof pitch, and purpose:
Simple Cricket: A basic peaked structure that directs water around a small chimney or vent.
High Saddle Cricket: Used for steep-pitched roofs, creating a more pronounced peak.
Low Saddle Cricket: Best for low-slope roofs to ensure proper water flow without affecting aesthetics.
Choosing the right type depends on your roof design, chimney size, and local building codes.
How Much Does It Cost to Install a Roof Cricket?
The cost to install a roof cricket varies based on the size, materials used, and the complexity of the installation. On average:
Simple crickets can cost between $300 and $700.
More complex installations or premium materials (like metal crickets) can cost $1,000 or more.
If you’re replacing your roof, adding a cricket during the project is often more cost-effective than retrofitting one later.
Do You Need a Roof Cricket?
You should consider installing a roof cricket if:
You have roof slope underlayment or a chimney measure wider than 30 inches.
Your roof has valleys or complex intersections prone to water pooling.
You’ve experienced leaks behind the chimney or roof around units.
Your local building codes require it (common in many areas).
Even if it’s not required, adding a cricket is a smart investment in your roof’s longevity and your home’s protection.
Signs You May Need a Roof Cricket Repair or Replacement
Even a properly installed roof cricket can wear out over time. Look for these warning signs:
Leaks near the chimney: Water stains on ceilings or walls.
Cracked or missing flashing: Exposes the underlying structure to water damage.
Pooling water: Persistent water near roof penetrations after rain.
If you notice any of these issues, call a roofing professional to inspect and, if necessary, repair or replace the cricket.
Final Thoughts
A roof cricket might be small, but it plays a big role in maintaining the health of your roofing system. Whether you’re installing a new roof, repairing leaks, or simply planning ahead, understanding what a roof cricket is — and why it matters — will help you make smarter decisions.
If you suspect your roof could benefit from a cricket or need a professional inspection, contact a trusted local roofing contractor. Protecting your home starts from the top down!
