Why Would My Chimney Be Leaking?

Water is a chimney’s worst enemy. Without proper waterproofing your chimney components will begin to deteriorate overtime leading to the need for extensive repairs. Chimney leaks can destroy the chimney as well as materials in your home such as the walls and roofing. There are 5 common causes of chimney leaks, let’s talk about what they are and what you can do to fix them.

Rain Inside Your Chimney

When it rains if your chimney is not properly protected that moisture can enter straight in through the top wreaking all sorts of havoc. a chimney cap or cover is necessary to prevent the elements and debris from outside entering your chimney and causing damage or blockages.

The best way to resolve chimney leaks due to rain is to call a professional to ensure that you have a functioning chimney cover and check for any other damages or issues.

Cracks in the Chimney Crown

Another important part of chimney waterproofing is the chimney crown. the chimney crown is a concrete slab that is designed to help guide water off and away from the chimney’s masonry structure. when the chimney crown becomes cracked or damaged it allows water to seep through and create issues with the brick and mortar of your chimney. If these issues are left unresolved it can lead to serious structural issues requiring complicated and extensive repairs.

The solution for a cracked chimney crown depends on the severity of the cracks. Call a professional to inspect your chimney and decide on the right course of action.

Seeping Bricks

As your brick and mortar decay they are more likely to allow water to seep through the cracks. The bricks are porous and can soak up water from rain and storms over time and as the seasons change freezing temperatures will cause the bricks to expand creating cracks in the masonry. As temperatures warm the bricks will fall and water will seep into those cracks.

Keeping up with annual maintenance will ensure that as wear and tear develop in your chimney structure, these issues will be caught early enough to avoid extensive repairs and rebuilds.

Leaks from the Attic or Roofing Materials

Sometimes leaks can start in other places and make their way to your chimney. if your roofing materials are not stable and begin to leak this can start to affect your chimney structure and walls. While this issue may not begin with the chimney, a chimney professional can help if it makes its way to the structure.

Damaged Flashing

Chimney flashing is a multi-layered component meant to protect the area where your chimney and roofing materials meet. If your chimney flashing becomes loose or missing it will allow water and moisture to pool at the base of your chimney and leak through your roofing.

When chimney flashing becomes loose a professional will need to correct the issue and replace the waterproof seal between your roof and chimney to prevent further damage.

Saving Your Leaky Chimney

If you notice signs of a chimney leak, damage from a chimney leak, or any other chimney trouble call in The Chimney Guys! Our team of certified technicians can help fix and prevent damage in your chimney and fireplace. Give us a call today or contact us online to schedule your appointment.