Most homeowners take great care of their chimney when it comes to protecting it against damaging soot, dangerous creosote and even potential fires. However, one of the biggest threat to your chimneys is actually water damage. Over time, water leaks in your chimney can actually cause extreme damage to the structure of your home, which could put your whole family in danger. Here is what you need to know about chimney leaks and water damage.
How water damage occurs
Water can find many roots into your chimney to cause damage the structure and the surrounding areas. Here are some ways water could make its way into your chimney.
- Absorption – Masonry materials used to construct chimneys are very porous. This means that your masonry chimney absorbs water every time it rains, sleets or snows. Over time, the water that enters your chimney’s masonry can cause damage, especially when the temperatures drop again to cause the water in your masonry to freeze and expand.
- Masonry cracks – Due to water damages or improper construction, your chimney masonry can also develop cracks. Cracks through the sides of the chimney can let water in. Cracks in the chimney crown can let water drip down the interior of the chimney.
- Failing flashing – Your chimney flashing seals the cracks around the base of your chimney, where the area where your chimney meets the roof. Eventually, chimney flashing wears out, and this will cause water to leak in around the base of your chimney.
How to prevent water damage
Chimney water damage is unavoidable. However, there are plenty of ways to prevent and protect your chimney and home from chimney leaks. Here are some helpful tips to protect your chimney from water damage.
Install a chimney cap – The Chimney Safety Institute of America suggests that a chimney cap are the best way to protect your chimney from water damage. A chimney cap serves as a roof for your chimney, preventing water from pouring freely down the chimney flue.- Waterproof your chimney – Another way to protect your chimney is by have a waterproofing solution applied. Chimney waterproofing coats your chimney with an invisible layer of protection. The solution prevents water from entering your chimney’s masonry while still allowing your chimney’s masonry to exhaust the gases created by your fireplace.
- Have your chimney inspected – Because chimney leaks are inevitable, it is crucial to have your chimney inspected at least once a year and be on the lookout for potential leaks. When you catch leaks in your chimney, you should address them immediately before it turns serious.
- Never ignore a chimney leak – Chimney leaks only worsen with time. The leak will continue to spread once it’s formed to threaten the structure of your chimney or even to your home. Call in the professionals as soon as you see signs of a leak.
Call Fluesbrothers Chimney Service at 913-236-7141 to schedule an appointment today! We assess your chimney leaks and damages, and then we can fix and restore it to its former beauty.
