Why You Should Waterproof Your Chimney

Chimney waterproofing is a simple and economical way to prolong the life of your chimney’s masonry and prevent a lot of big problems stemming from water leaks.

The Chimney Guys of Pataskala, OH, would like to share a little about chimney waterproofing and exactly what it will do for your chimney.

How Masonry Waterproofing Works

Chimney waterproofing products are applied over the bricks and mortar of the exterior chimney. There are also products designed to waterproof chimney crowns, which are the concrete slabs at the tops of masonry chimneys.

When applied correctly, waterproofing solutions form a tight sealant that keeps water from penetrating cracks and gaps in the bricks, mortar and concrete crown. The sealant is “breathable,” which means it allows naturally occurring moisture between the sealant and the chimney to escape.

Note that if significant masonry or crown damage exists, it should be repaired before applying the sealant.

A Leaky Chimney Is A Dangerous Chimney

Most leak problems in chimneys start in the masonry or crown. Small cracks gradually expand, causing bricks and concrete to deteriorate and mortar to crumble. Water moves into the open spaces, and ongoing damage begins.

A major chimney leak can result in:

• Structural weakness that causes the chimney to tilt or collapse.
• A damaged chimney liner, which is in place to contain heat, flames, smoke and deadly combustion gases.
• Damage to the fireplace damper and parts of the firebox.
• Rotting in the roof, attic, ceilings, walls, flooring and other parts of the home.
• The growth of dangerous mold.
• Strong, musty odors in the house.

Signs Of A Chimney Leak

A licensed chimney inspector is the best person to search for and discover leaks in your chimney, but you can learn a lot by doing your own visual inspection. Watch for:

• Crumbling mortar and loose or flaking bricks
• White stains on the masonry
• Damp patches on walls or the ceiling near the fireplace
• Musty smells in the attic or fireplace
• A squeaky (rusted) fireplace damper that’s hard to operate

These signs tell you that water is somehow getting into the chimney and that a proper inspection is needed.

Can You Waterproof Your Own Chimney?

You can do your own chimney or crown waterproofing job if you follow the directions on the waterproofing product’s label exactly as written. You’ll need to be up on the roof – you can’t do the job from a ladder – so make sure you’re comfortable navigating the roof’s slope. Most homeowners prefer to let their chimney service company take care of the waterproofing because the technician can do a chimney inspection at the same time.

If the inspection turns up any damage or malfunction issues, whether from a chimney leak or other causes, they can be repaired quickly before they turn into serious problems. Most chimney inspectors are also qualified to make basic and advanced chimney repairs.

Call Your Ohio Chimney Experts

The Chimney Guys is ready to help with chimney waterproofing projects as well as all types of chimney repairs, rebuilding work, and licensed chimney inspections. We serve Pataskala, OH, and the entire Columbus, OH, region.

Give us a call or reach out through our simple contact form.