CSLB C-39 Roofing ContractorFlashing, Ventilation and InsulationMedium
A contractor is building a cricket (saddle) behind a masonry chimney on a composition shingle roof. To properly divert water around the chimney, the cricket ridge should be constructed with a slope that:
- AMatches or exceeds the slope of the adjoining roof plane
- BIs always flatter than the main roof to slow water flow
- CIs limited to a maximum of 1/4:12 regardless of roof pitch
- DNeed not be sloped, since flashing alone diverts the water
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Matches or exceeds the slope of the adjoining roof plane
A cricket must shed water efficiently around the upslope side of a chimney; building the cricket ridge at a slope equal to or greater than the main roof ensures water is actively diverted rather than pooling, which is critical since debris and snow tend to collect on the upslope side.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. A flatter slope would encourage debris/water accumulation, defeating the cricket's purpose.
- C. There is no such fixed maximum; the slope should relate to the main roof pitch.
- D. The cricket's physical slope is what diverts water; flashing alone is insufficient on a wide chimney.
Cricket (Saddle) Slope
A cricket is a sloped structure built behind a chimney or other roof obstruction to divert water and debris around it; its slope should match or exceed the main roof pitch for effective drainage.
- Required for wide chimneys/obstructions (commonly 30+ inches)
- Prevents water/debris/snow buildup on upslope side
- Slope should be at least equal to the adjoining roof plane
Memory trick: A cricket that's too flat lets water sit — build it steep to keep it split.