I have a masonite chimney (steel flue pipe with a decorative wood
framed "chimney" about 3' square, covered with some type of engineered
wood like masonite). It has had a chronic leak problem. A couple of
repairs by a reputable local roofing company lasted two or three years
each. I want to get a longer term repair, and it can't wait until I
get a new roof (within 5 years or so). The roof shingles are asphalt
composite. The house is in Lubbock, Texas.

So, I had different local roofer come out to give me options and an
estimate. One of the options would be to install flashing on the
outside of the masonite, and then cover the masonite chimney with
metal siding. This would supposedly reduce the maintenance problems
associated with masonite chimneys (sealing/painting) which are often a
source of leaks.

The other option was basically to rebuild, reflash and re-seal the
masonite structure. As stated above, I would like to get away from the
poor durability and maintenance requirements of the masonite chimney.
However, I'm not sure what other options I may have.

Has anyone had experience with this type of repair? Would you
recommend it? BTW, the roofer has given me several addresses of houses
where they have done this type of repair, and I will be checking them
this weekend for their cosmetic appearance. I'm more interested in how
durable and reliable such repairs are, and whether there are better
options.

Thanks,
Randy