Is your chimney leaking? We’re willing to bet that if you’ve found this blog post, you may be trying to find an answer to why there are water stains on the ceilings or walls around your chimney or why you smell mold or hear a drip-drip-drip sound coming from your chimney. A chimney leak can be caused by any number of things, but here in Houston, Lords Chimney’s certified technicians have seen it all; from our many years of leak resolution, we now know that most chimney leaks can be attributed to one of the following four issues:
All chimneys—whether they’re brick, stone, or prefab—require some type of maintenance to keep water out of them. We’re happy to advise you about which waterproofing method(s) are best for you and your home.
1. Gapping or Rusted Flashing: Flashing is the metal band that is woven around the base of your chimney where it meets your roof. In most cases it is partially embedded in your roof’s shingles—so that new flashing is often installed at the same time as a new roof. This junction point is a vulnerable one, hence the flashing is installed to give it added armor from potential leaks. However, flashing is notorious for gapping or rusting over time, especially if caulk has come loose or if the flashing was installed improperly. If we determine that faulty flashing is the cause of your leak, Lords Chimney can either repair your existing flashing or custom fit new flashing onto your chimney.
2. Inadequate Protection Up Top: A chimney without a chimney cap or a top-sealing damper is not unlike a house without a roof. In other words you’ve got a recipe for disaster, as your chimney is inviting water into your home. A chimney cap or top-sealing damper will not only keep water out but also keep animals and debris out, keep sparks in, and in the case of a chimney damper, save you money on energy bills.
3. Cracked Crown: At the very top of your chimney sits your chimney’s crown, which seals your chimney from the chimney’s flu(es) to the edge of the chimney. According to the CSIA, “The crown should provide a downward slope that will direct the water from the flue to the edge of the crown. The overhanging drip edge, by directing the run-off from the crown away from the chimney, helps prevent erosion of the brick and mortar in the chimney’s vertical surfaces.” Many chimney crowns are built with an inadequate mortar mix that too soon chips or cracks, allowing water to seep in. In many cases existing crowns can be repaired, though we sometimes determine that a crown needs to be completely rebuilt.
4. Masonry Problems: Surprisingly porous, brick and mortar—if not professionally waterproofed and maintained—can actually act as a sponge to draw water into your chimney. In addition, chimney brick can crack and spall over time, making your chimney more susceptible to leaks. If this is the case, tuckpointing or other repairs may be necessary, along with the application of a waterproofing sealant.
Lords Chimney serves the entire Greater Houston area. Having chimney problems? We hope you will call us first.