You may not think about water and the way it travels. But water does find a way to wreak havoc on your home including your chimney. There are many reasons that water will get into your chimney. You have to be concerned about the structure of your chimney when water finds its way in. We will dive into some of the reasons that your chimney may be leaking. And what you can do about it.
Bricks are porous. When it rains or snows water gets on your chimney. As the snow melts the bricks absorb the water. When the temperatures go below freezing, the water in your bricks tends to freeze and expand. This effect of freezing and thawing can make those pores in the bricks quite large. This can cause the breakdown of the bricks altogether.
The chimney crown sits on the top of the chimney. It is usually made of cement. Over time, like anything, the cement can crack. The chimney crown is situated to prevent water from getting into the chimney and the flue liner. If there is a crack in the chimney crown it is important to get this repaired as soon as possible. If left alone, it can get larger and cause more damage.
The chimney flashing joins the chimney and the roof. It protects this area from leakage. It is sealed to protect the area around the chimney protecting the roof as well. The flashing is made of a durable material such as aluminum. With a material like aluminum, it will become damaged or break down over time.
A chimney cap sits on top of the chimney protecting the chimney from rain and snow. If the chimney cap is cracked or missing, you will see water coming in from the chimney opening.
As you burn a fire in your fireplace. There are gas fumes that are produced that contain moisture. This moisture forms in the Flue. This moisture sits in this area. It will eventually absorb into the surrounding area, sometimes the attic. You may see leaking from around the fireplace and attic area.
The best thing to do is to keep an objective eye on your fireplace and chimney. It is quite difficult to get on the roof and observe what is happening on the crown, cap, and flashing.
At Chimney Solutions we are experts in correcting a leaky chimney. It is recommended to have an inspection of your chimney regularly, yearly is advised.
Chimney Solutions strives to bring the highest level of professional and technical expertise to our service area. The rewards of protection of property and life, health and safety, as well as the education of ourselves, our customers, and others fuel our quest for excellence.
Contact us online or by phone to schedule an appointment today. In the Atlanta area, call 770-255-1300. For CSIA-certified chimney sweeps in Chattanooga, TN, call 423-551-9912.
