Leaky Chimney Repair
Water can wreak havoc on a masonry chimney and you can be left with unusable fireplace.
Leaky Chimneys
Leaks in chimneys can sometimes be difficult to resolve. Sometimes, the “L” shaped flashing that protects the joint between the roof and chimney can sometimes pull away from the chimney, especially if it is only held in place by roofing cement. This can allow rainwater to get into your house. If you do not have a cap/spark arrestor on your chimney, the first thing you should do is install one. Caps can prevent most of the rain from going down your chimney, although they do not prevent all driving rain from getting in.
Waterproofing & Water Repellant
While we live in a very dry climate, it is still important to protect your masonry chimney from water damage in the years when we have heavy rains. Water can wreak havoc on a masonry chimney and you can be left with unusable fireplace.
One of the best steps you can take to protect your chimney from water damage is to have a waterproofing sealant applied to the outside of your chimney. This compound will help keep water from seeping into the pores of the brick and mortar while still allowing vapor to exit.
Can’t I apply the sealant myself?
Absolutely not! Chimney waterproofing sealant is very different from a sealant you might use to seal a driveway. Most readily available sealant is designed to be a complete moisture barrier and forms a film on the service of the brick and motor. These chemicals not only prevent water from entering but prevent it from escaping. With a chimney, trapped moisture can cause damage.
What Other Steps Can I take to Prevent Water Damage?
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- Install a Chimney Cap (or spark arrestor). A chimney cap can help keep water from entering your chimney through the opening at the time, while still allowing smoke and dangerous gases to be released. In addition, chimney caps can keep animals (birds, rodents, racoons, squirrels, etc.) out of your chimney and out of your home. The cost for an exterminator is higher than the cost of a standard cap.
- Make sure you have a chimney crown which is in good condition and free from cracking and crumbling.
- Make sure the flashing is intact.
- Flashing & Sealant: The “L” shaped flashing that protects the joint between the roof and chimney can sometimes pull away from the chimney, especially if it is only held in place by roofing cement. This can allow rainwater to get into your house. Leaking chimneys can be difficult to resolve as sometimes the leak is caused by a roof leak that isn’t even close to the chimney.
