What is a cricket in roofing?

• A. A peaked saddle construction at the back of a chimney to prevent snow and ice buildup and to deflect water around the chimney.
• B. The open portions of a strip shingle between the tabs.
• C. Date of manufacture printed on bundles.
• D. The surface, installed over the supporting framing members, to which the roofing is applied.

Answer: (A)

A cricket is a peaked saddle built behind a chimney on a pitched roof. Its purpose is to create a high point that channels water and melting snow away from the chimney, splitting runoff onto the roof planes on either side. By directing flow around the obstruction, it helps prevent ice damming and leaks at the chimney flashing. This feature is installed as part of the roof assembly and must be properly flashed to integrate with the surrounding shingles. It differs from other terms like the visible part of a shingle between tabs, the date printed on bundle packaging, or the roof deck itself.