Four Reasons for a Leaky Chimney and What to Do About Them
A chimney leak is nothing to take lightly. Although it might be “minor” at first, moisture spreading through the chimney system can cause major damage to parts of the chimney and the home.
The Chimney Guys of Pataskala, OH, would like to present some helpful information about leaky chimneys, including why they leak and how to address the problem.
Why a chimney leaks
Chimney professionals use the term “chimney leak” to refer to any situation in which excess moisture is present within a chimney system. Here are the most common causes.
- No chimney cap or damaged chimney cap
Chimney caps (and flue covers) protect the flue from rain and snow. If there’s no cap, or if the cap is damaged, water can pour in and negatively affect the flue liner, fireplace damper, fireplace and other parts of the system.
- Deteriorated chimney crown
Chimney crowns are concrete slabs that cover the top of the chimney minus the flue opening. They’re prone to cracking, and when they begin to deteriorate, they’ll allow water into unseen interior spaces of the chimney. This can lead to masonry damage, chimney liner damage and various other serious problems.
- Damaged masonry
If there are cracks in chimney bricks, water can seep into the cracks. As the outside temperature drops below freezing, the water itself will freeze and expand, further damaging the bricks. Cracks in the bricks, along with crumbling mortar between them, are major causes of leaky chimneys.
- Unseated, rusted or missing chimney flashing
Flashing is the material that seals the gap between your roof and chimney. Water moving into this gap can cause damage to unseen areas of the chimney below the roofline as well as to the roof, ceilings, walls and attic.
Leaky chimney clues to watch for
Common signs that your chimney is leaking include:
- Water in the firebox
- Peeling wallpaper
- Damp sections or stains on the walls or ceiling near the fireplace
- White stains (efflorescence) on the exterior masonry
- Damp, musty odors
- A rusty damper that’s hard to operate
What to do about a leaky chimney
If you notice any of the above clues, schedule a chimney inspection to find out exactly what’s happening. A licensed chimney inspector will determine where the leak originates, what’s causing it and how much, if any, collateral damage has occurred.
Professional chimney technicians have many ways to address leaky chimneys and prevent leaks in the future. Here are some of them.
- Brick replacement; tuckpointing to replace missing mortar
- Repair or replacement of a faulty chimney cap, flue cover or chimney chase top
- Chimney crown patching and rebuilding
- Repair or installation of chimney flashing
- Chimney masonry and crown waterproofing
Is your chimney leaking and causing problems?
Ohio winters take their toll on our chimneys. The Chimney Guys of Pataskala, OH, are here to solve all your chimney problems, including leaks and water damage.
We provide routine and emergency service for all types of chimney systems and know how to keep yours running safely and efficiently. Give us a call, or get in touch by using our contact form.
