A leaking chimney can lead to water related problems on the interior of your home including mold, mildew, and wood rot. It can also lead to structural weakness in the chimney and the home itself. Water may enter the chimney in a variety of ways including through the top and soaking through the masonry or cracks in the surface. So today we’re going to talk about steps you can take to save your chimney from elemental damage and water leaks.
- Chimney Cap: The chimney cap is designed to keep water from entering the chimney from the top during rain or snow. A properly working chimney cap will keep birds and other small animals from entering the chimney to seek refuge from predators or bad weather as well as keeping water out.
- Chimney Crown: The chimney crown is designed to lead water away from the chimney opening and allow it to drain down the roof and into the guttering as intended. The crown should extend over the edge of the body of the chimney by two inches so it can keep water away from the chimney.
- Chimney Flashing: The chimney flashing is designed to keep water from entering the area where the chimney meets the roof. It’s generally made of metal and secured into place using waterproof material.
- Condensation: The wood you burn creates condensation as it cools near the top of the chimney. An older, unlined chimney may allow that moisture to soak through and cause problems with the interior walls near the chimney.
- Water in the Bricks: Bricks and the mortar that holds them together are porous and allow water to pass through. Waterproofing and sealing your masonry chimney is an excellent step against water seeping through the bricks. But you have to pay close attention to the type of waterproofing agent you use because some may not allow moisture to evaporate.
We use, trust, and recommend ChimneySaver products to protect the chimney from water damage. These products are easily brushed or sprayed into place and provide a moisture barrier against rain, melting snow, and all other types of water. They protect while allowing moisture to evaporate through tiny pores, but preventing additional water from penetrating.
The chimney sweeps here at Lou Curley’s Chimney Service are CSIA Certified, and we participate in continued education throughout the year so that we’re always up to speed on the latest changes in our field. We’re located in Drexel Hill and provide all types of chimney services to homeowners and commercial property owners in the surrounding areas and along the Main Line. Give us a call at 610-626-2439 if you’re interested in scheduling an appointment for a consultation, a chimney inspection, chimney cleaning, or dryer vent cleaning.