Component
What Is Roof Cricket? Function and Role in Roofing Systems
Also called: saddle, roof cricket, diverter saddle
Crickets is a small, peaked or sloped structure installed on the high side of a roof feature, such as a chimney or skylight, to divert water around the obstruction and prevent ponding.
In plain English
A cricket is a roof component, typically a small, peaked structure installed on the high side of a chimney or other roof penetration, designed to divert water around the obstruction and prevent water accumulation or leakage in that area.
How crickets works
Crickets are specially constructed, ridge-shaped structures installed on the high side of a roof feature, such as a chimney, skylight, or HVAC curb, to divert water around the obstruction and promote effective drainage. Typically formed by intersecting roof planes with varying slopes and pitches, crickets are designed to split and redirect water flow, preventing ponding and minimizing the risk of leaks at vulnerable areas where water might otherwise accumulate. Their geometry often involves a small, peaked ridge that channels runoff toward the main roof slopes and eaves, integrating seamlessly with the existing roof system.
Functionally, crickets enhance water drainage and snow shedding by eliminating flat or low-slope areas behind roof penetrations, which are prone to water intrusion and ice dam formation. They are essential in both low-slope and steep-slope roofing assemblies, particularly in climates with significant rainfall or snowfall. Properly designed crickets improve the overall performance and longevity of the roofing system by reducing hydrostatic pressure, mitigating debris buildup, and maintaining structural efficiency without compromising usable roof space.
Why it matters for your roof
Crickets refer to small, peaked structures that are built on a roof to divert water away from a flat or low-slope area and prevent ponding or standing water. It also affects how homeowners, contractors, and specifiers evaluate roof durability, cost, risk, and long-term value.
Benefits
IMPROVED WATER DRAINAGE
Crickets divert water away from roof penetrations, preventing ponding and reducing the risk of leaks or structural damage.
LEAK PREVENTION
By channeling runoff around chimneys or curbs, crickets minimize water intrusion at vulnerable roof intersections.
ICE DAM REDUCTION
Properly installed crickets help prevent ice dam formation by eliminating standing water in cold climates.
SYSTEM INTEGRATION
Crickets enhance overall roof performance by ensuring seamless drainage integration with adjacent roofing components and assemblies.
Limitations
DRAINAGE DEPENDENCY
Crickets are only effective if properly integrated with adjacent roof slopes and drainage paths, making them highly system-dependent.
FLASHING INTEGRATION RISK
Improper cricket-to-flashing transitions can create vulnerable points for water intrusion, especially at chimneys or large penetrations.
MATERIAL COMPATIBILITY LIMITS
Cricket performance can be compromised if constructed from materials incompatible with the primary roofing membrane or deck.
DEBRIS ACCUMULATION POINT
Crickets can unintentionally trap debris at their upslope intersections, increasing localized moisture and potential for membrane degradation.
Common problems
POOR CRICKET SLOPE
Insufficient cricket slope leads to ponding water, increasing risk of membrane deterioration and eventual roof leaks.
IMPROPER CRICKET FLASHING
Incorrectly integrated cricket flashing creates vulnerable joints, allowing water intrusion and hidden substrate damage.
CRICKET MEMBRANE SEPARATION
Membrane detachment at cricket transitions exposes seams to wind-driven rain, resulting in localized moisture infiltration.
DEBRIS ACCUMULATION AT CRICKETS
Crickets trap debris at roof penetrations, obstructing drainage and accelerating deterioration of adjacent roofing materials.
Where you'll see it
VALLEY DRAINAGE CONTROL
Crickets are installed behind chimneys or at roof intersections to divert water away from valleys and prevent ponding.
LEAK PREVENTION AT PENETRATIONS
Crickets are used to redirect water around large roof penetrations, reducing the risk of leaks at vulnerable flashing points.
FLAT ROOF WATER MANAGEMENT
On low-slope or flat roofs, crickets are built to channel water toward drains, minimizing standing water and associated membrane damage.
SNOW AND ICE MITIGATION
Crickets help prevent snow and ice accumulation behind rooftop obstructions by promoting continuous drainage and reducing freeze-thaw risks.
Don't confuse it with
Not to be confused with similar roofing terms that sound related but perform a different role in the roof assembly.
- crickets vs saddles
- crickets vs roof diverters
- crickets vs valley flashing
- crickets vs roof curbs
Regional & climate notes
Most relevant in: Rain-heavy climates, Snow-heavy climates.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a cricket in roofing?
A cricket in roofing is a small, peaked structure installed on the high side of a chimney or roof penetration to divert water around the obstruction, preventing ponding and reducing the risk of leaks.
How do crickets help prevent water pooling on a roof?
Crickets are small, peaked structures installed on the high side of chimneys or roof penetrations to divert water around them, effectively preventing water pooling and reducing the risk of leaks and roof damage.
Why are crickets important for preventing water ponding on roofs?
Crickets are essential roof components that divert water around obstructions like chimneys or HVAC units, preventing water ponding and reducing the risk of leaks, structural damage, and premature roof deterioration.
How do crickets on a roof help prevent water pooling and leaks?
Crickets are raised structures installed on the high side of chimneys or roof penetrations to divert water around them, preventing water pooling and reducing the risk of leaks and moisture damage.
How do you determine the correct size and placement of crickets on a flat roof?
The correct size and placement of crickets on a flat roof are determined by roof slope, drainage needs, and obstacle size, ensuring water is diverted efficiently toward drains or scuppers to prevent ponding and leaks.
What factors influence the size and placement of crickets on a roof?
The size and placement of crickets are determined by roof slope, drainage needs, penetration size (like chimneys or HVAC units), and local building codes to ensure effective water diversion and prevent ponding or leaks.
Related terms
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