March is the time of year when we go for a rollercoaster ride with the temperatures. Some days it’s 60 degrees, and the next it drops by twenty degrees. There are two things we fight when this happens, one is the common cold and the other is the chimney leak. Both are runny and make us feel miserable. Is it just the up and down of the temperatures that make the chimney leak? There’s more. Let’s take a look at the top 5 reasons for chimney leaks this Spring.
#1 Go Straight On In!
As many times as we discussed chimney caps, many chimneys in the Chicagoland area go uncovered. What happens when there is no chimney cap? You got it! The rain goes right on in… along with critters and debris. It’s a simple solution. Get a chimney cap! However, it’s not as simple as going up there and install it yourself. It is important to have the chimney checked first for other issues such as a cracked crown or a clogged chimney flue before the chimney cap goes on.
#2 Wearing a Cracked Crown
Just in #1 we brought up about the chimney crown. The chimney crown is a slab of concrete that goes on top of the chimney. The chimney crown protects the chimney from the elements. But with that protection, the chimney crown takes a beating. As a result, cracks begin to form. They start out as hairline cracks and make their way to larger cracks. Hairline or larger, as soon as a crack forms, you can be sure that water will find its way into the chimney and right in your home. A Superior Chimney certified technician will inspect it and advise you on the best repair or replacement to keep your chimney protected and in good working order.
#3 Condensation: The Big Clash!
When it’s winter and spring in Chicago, you can count on condensation forming in the chimney. This is when the cold air outside meets the warm, humid air inside (especially if you are using a humidifier) make contact with the cold walls of the chimney… you got it. You get water dripping. Also, if you use your chimney or not, if the chimney isn’t ventilated properly, condensation can form. This is an issue best inspected by a certified chimney technician to uncover the cause of condensation to ensure it is corrected.
#4 Chimney Flashing Comes Undone
Chimney flashing is the material that brings together the roof and the chimney. Without the chimney flashing, there would be a gap and a perfect place for water to come right on in. Chimney flashing is a critical piece of material as it blocks any of the elements and directs it away from the chimney and away from your home. Unless very obvious that it has separated from the chimney and/or the roof, its best for a professional to inspect the flashing for a secure fit to fight away the seasonal elements.
#5 Freezing and Thawing Takes a Toll on the Bricks and Mortar
When it gets cold outside, everything tightens up. But when we have the 60 degree days, you can be sure everything begins to thaw out. Repeat that every year and you can bet that cracks begin to form in the mortar. Mortar is the material in between the bricks or stone. Even the bricks and stone get exhausted and begin to show signs of wear. When that happens, water knows exactly what to do. Find that little crack and come on in! Our certified technicians will inspect the chimney to ensure water won’t find its way in. But to ensure a long term solution, ask us about Chimney Saver, a waterproofing solution that ensures security of your chimney, repelling the water away. Now that you know the 5 reasons for chimney leaks this spring, contact us today at 877-244-6349 to secure your chimney so you don’t have to experience the damage caused by a leaky chimney.
