You know that waterproofing the chimney is extremely important, but you may not know exactly how to do the task on your own. Waterproofing the chimney can be done as a DIY project, but you need to understand that it does require the use of a ladder. You have to be comfortable in high places, so if you’re afraid of heights or don’t have someone dependable nearby in case of an accident, please wait or call us. Don’t risk a serious fall when you can call us to do the task for you. If you have someone reliable nearby and you’re confident you can waterproof the chimney, here’s where to get started.

Choosing the Right Product

We use and trust ChimneySaver products. They’re water based, easy to apply, and do a wonderful job protecting your masonry chimney. The product you choose needs to penetrate the masonry, dry relatively quickly, and allow water to evaporate but not penetrate. Choose something that’s easy to apply and you’ll be finished before you know it.

Sealing a Brick Chimney

We wanted to add this portion in specifically because waterproofing brick is slightly different from waterproofing rock. Rock isn’t as porous as brick, so you don’t need to use as much of the solution. One application should do the trick nicely. Brick, on the other hand, is porous; it will drink up most of the first application and you will need to go over it again before you’re finished.

How to Apply the Waterproofing Solution

ChimneySaver is applied with a sprayer, which makes it easy to apply. You would start at the top and finish at the bottom. Give it 10 minutes or so and do the same thing all over again. Work in small areas so you are sure to get the entire surface.

Seal Horizontal and Slanted Surfaces Well

Most chimneys aren’t just created with vertical surfaces. They have a variety of slanted surfaces that catch a lot of rain and snow. Snow accumulates on the slanted surfaces and often melts directly into the brick and mortar. The freeze-thaw process takes over and you have cracking and spalling within just a few years.

DIY Chimney Waterproofing vs. Calling a Chimney Sweep

The average homeowner with respect for ladders and a healthy fear of heights can waterproof the chimney. Again, we caution you to work only if you have someone nearby to watch the ladder or to hold it while you’re working at heights. Many fatalities due to fall accidents are reported every year.

The CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps at Lou Curley’s Chimney Service trust ChimneySaver products over other chimney waterproofing solutions on the market. Our chimney services extend well beyond Drexel Hill and into most townships, towns, and cities along the Main Line. Call us at 610-626-2439 to schedule a consultation, chimney inspection, chimney cleaning, or dryer vent cleaning.