Chimney Leaks

Water is a chimneys worst enemy.  Chimney leaks, fireplace leaks, or any water damage may be from exterior water intrusion caused by no chimney cap, crown cracks, tuckpointing deterioration, cracking in the masonry construction, chimney flashing & roof leaks, shoulder slab gaps, foundation cracking, and/or flue gas condensation (over or under sized chimney liners).

As odd as it may seem, chimney leaks cause more damage to masonry chimneys than fire. (Chimney leaks cause costly fireplace chimney repair needs – Waterproofing saves you money!)

All the brick and other materials that make up your home are protected by the roof and eave, all that is, except your chimney. The chimney sticks up above the roof constantly exposed to all the elements; rain, snow, wind, and the freeze & thaw cycles of winter – all the while absorbing water with the need for waterproofing.

Most masonry materials are very porous and absorb large amounts of water that will expand & contract through the freeze & thaw cycles of winter, causing undue stress, cracking, chimney leaks, fireplace leaks, and integrity loss.  This endless cycle will progressively escalate the severity of a chimney leak & increase the cost of fireplace chimney repairs.

Masonry water damage caused by a chimney leak is sometimes a slow, subtle process.  Chimney leaks are often not evident until it has become quite serious.

Protect your investment from chimney leaks:

1. Have professional grade chimney caps installed.
2. Repair or replace a damaged chimney crowns.
3. Repair deteriorated brick & mortar joints.
4. Repair or replace a leaky chimney flashings.
5. Have your chimney waterproofed!

Note:  Paint, or any non-vapor permeable water sealer, should never be used as a waterproofing agent because it will trap moisture inside your chimney causing an internal chimney leak, accelerating deterioration from within.