North Carolina Home Inspector Practice Exam

What component is installed on the ridge side of a chimney in the line of water flow?

1. A flashing

2. A cricket

3. A diverter

4. A cap

The correct answer is: A cricket

The correct answer is that a cricket is installed on the ridge side of a chimney in the line of water flow. A cricket, also known as a saddle, is a small, sloped roof structure designed to divert water around the chimney. Its primary function is to guide rainwater away from the base of the chimney, helping to prevent water intrusion and potential damage to both the chimney and the roof structure. In scenarios where a chimney is situated on the lower side of a sloped roof, water can accumulate and flow towards it. The cricket effectively redirects this water, allowing it to flow off the roof rather than pooling around the chimney. This is critical in maintaining the integrity of the roofing system and preventing leaks. Other components, such as flashing, caps, and diverters, serve different purposes. Flashing is designed to seal joints and prevent water penetration; a cap is installed at the top of the chimney to keep out rain and animals; and a diverter typically refers to any structure that redirects water flow, but it is not specifically the component installed at the ridge side of a chimney. Therefore, in the context of the question, the cricket is the most appropriate answer due to its specific role in water diversion around the chimney.