Whether you are experiencing leaks around your chimney and roof, deterioration throughout your brickwork, water in your fireplace, or something else along these lines, there is no doubt that water-related problems throughout your chimney structure is something you need to address right away. Fortunately, our team can help.
Learn more below, then contact us for your chimney repairs, inspections, fix-ups, sweepings and more. The Lords Chimney team will always have your back.
Causes Of Chimney Leaks
So, what is making your chimney leak in the first place? Well, a lot depends on the type of fireplace you own. The metal chase of your prefabricated unit could be rusted, for example, or if you have a masonry chimney, your crown could cracked, crumbling, and breaking down. Other times your chimney was simply designed or installed wrong to begin with. All in all, it is about getting our team in there to figure it out, so we can provide solutions.
Some of the more common things we see? It is not rare for a homeowner to have a damaged or missing chimney cap, in which case a new one will need to be installed. Without a proper covering over your flue, water can easily get in and wreak havoc. Other times, we notice the flashing is rusted, bent, or cracked. Because your flashing is meant to protect the area where your roof and chimney meet, this can lead to problems in a hurry.
We often realize that the brickwork has broken down, too. Because your masonry is so absorbent, it is important to protect it with waterproofing services. Without this layer of protection, moisture will get in and stay put, triggering all kinds of decay and deterioration over the years.
Water Damage & Your Chimney
So, what kind of damages will occur if your system is left unaddressed? Well, you won’t be able to use your fireplace safely or efficiently, that’s for certain. If you own a prefabricated fireplace, you will likely notice rust all throughout the inside of the unit, in which case the whole system will need to be changed out. This is expensive and time-consuming, so investing in preventative care from the get-go is always a better bet.
Along with this, sheetrock damage can occur, and you may notice the woodwork in your home rotting, swelling, and/or buckling. If there are leaks in your fireplace, then trust us – it won’t be long before you notice them in other places, too. It is also advised to keep an eye on your walls and ceilings, as these may show signs of staining or discoloration when too much water is present.
Notice some white powder around your home? This is called efflorescence and, while many falsely assume it is not associated with leaks, it actually is a big sign that water damage is present in your home. It is what is left over when the water dries up, and it is a big indicator that you have leaks somewhere throughout the area.
Combine all that with a crumbling masonry structure, and you have got a lot of issues on your plate that are costly to repair. Fortunately, our team can help you through it, no matter what stage you are at. Whether you have damages that need addressing, are eager to invest in some preventative measures, or simply want to have us come out and take a look, we can lend a helping hand. Call today, so we can set something up.
How Can We Help?
So, what can the CSIA certified sweeps at Lords Chimney do to help out citizens in the Houston area? Well, a lot will depend on your specific situation. We are not roofers, but we can do some basic roofing repair, and we offer flashing services, as well. If you are looking for something more cost-effective and temporary, we could offer a seven-year patch, which will buy you some time until you can get a new roof put on.
When it comes to your actual chimney, though, there is a lot we can offer, and it mainly depends on if you want to invest in a major repair job or simply patch up the problem to get you by for a while. If you are going to be in your current home for many more years to come, then investing in a long-term solution is likely the best route to take.
Depending on what type of problems you are experiencing, we may need to fix the holes in your mortar and brickwork, then apply waterproofing products, or we might need to install a new chimney cap or chase cover to ensure water stays out of your flue. Flashing work can also take you far, as can a drip edge, so that water does not run down the sides of your masonry structure.
The Importance Of Annual Inspections
All in all, the best thing you can do to keep your fireplace and chimney in good shape for the long haul is invest in annual inspections. By having our experts look things over every single year, you help ensure that problems are spotted and resolved well before they become major issues that put your safety at risk. We can recommend preventative measures and let you know of any concerns we have about the current state of your structure, giving you the peace of mind and satisfaction you deserve.
Ready to set something up? So are we. Call today to get your appointment on the books.
Nothing is better than a cozy evening in by the fireplace, but leaks and other damages can put a damper on those plans in a hurry. If you’re dealing with a leaky chimney, don’t let it get you down… Instead, call on the CSIA certified team at Lords Chimney! Get what you deserve from a chimney company by counting on us for it all!
Avoiding The Issue
When it comes to a leaky chimney, avoiding the issue is never the route to take. It doesn’t take long for water damage to go from bad to worse, and you could eventually face a chimney settlement or collapse, should you neglect to invest in repairs. Leaks and water damage lead to deterioration and clogs, and using your chimney in light of these damages will put your home and family at some serious risk.
Along with this, your flashing will rust, your woodwork will rot, and cracks, holes, and decay will show up throughout your system. If you want to ensure your chimney stays in good health for years to come, addressing leaks as soon as possible is the way to go.
Luckily, the team at Lords Chimney can help you out! We have the tools and expertise necessary for repairing leaks and keeping them away for good. Count on our expert staff to guarantee you get the fantastic results you deserve!
Solutions For You
There are lots of ways to prevent leaks from occurring again in the future, but first we’ll have to make sure your chimney is fixed up right. We can repair cracks, restore brickwork, patch up flashing, and address any damage to your cap or crown. If your chimney parts are beyond repair and need to be replaced, we can take care of that, too! Count on us to handle it all, so you know you’re good to go from the very beginning.
Next, we’ll make sure you’re set up with everything you need to keep water away for good. You’ll need a proper working chimney cap and chimney crown in place, and you’ll definitely want flashing installed, too. Next, you’ll need to ensure your brickwork stays protected through anything! That’s where waterproofing comes in.
When you invest in our waterproofing services, you can rest easy knowing your brickwork won’t be able to absorb harmful moisture down the line. We use ChimneySaver, which is a protective sealant that blocks water from entering your chimney’s brickwork and mortar. At the same time, it allows your chimney the ability to vent out necessary fumes, vapors, and moisture that was already there.
When it comes to waterproofing, you don’t want to skimp. Basic sealers and paints won’t do an effective job, meaning you’ll waste time and money on nothing. Invest in our services now, so you get the long-lasting results you deserve!
Call Us Today!
If you’re experiencing leaks, then give us a call right away. Getting the problem addressed fast is the most cost-effective option, and it’ll save you lots of time and stress down the line, too. Book your appointment today, so we can get started soon!
Spring and summer rain showers and thunderstorms are often a welcome reprieve from the scorching temperatures. In addition to cooling us off, these rain storms also keep our lawns and gardens green and our rivers and lakes full and ready for summer fun.
Unfortunately, heavy rain can also lead to a leaky chimney. Chimney leaks are one of the most common chimney problems we see during the summertime. Even chimneys without previous problems can develop leaks – and their accompanying water damage – in as little as one season.
What causes chimney leaks?
Although chimneys look like simple brick or stone columns, they are actually complex structures with a number of different pieces and parts. Because the chimney is constantly exposed to the elements, its masonry is at greater risk for damage and breakdown.
The following are some of the most common causes of chimney leaks.
Chimney cap: The chimney cap protects the top of your flue from water entry, as well as animals and debris. Without a properly fitted chimney cap, the flue and fireplace are left completely exposed to water entry from rain.
Flashing: Flashing is the water tight strips that seal the seam between your roof and the chimney structure. If flashing is incorrectly installed, damaged, or merely loses its seal due to wear and tear or age, water can easily seep through any gaps. This can cause water damage to not only the roof and chimney, but also the ceilings and walls around the chimney.
Masonry damage: If one side or part of your chimney is often directly exposed to rainfall or other sources of water, the masonry may deteriorate or become damaged faster than the rest of the chimney. Water can cause bricks to crack and spall; in addition to making your chimney look aged or unkempt, it can also affect the structural stability of the chimney and lead to chimney leaks.
Symptoms of a leaky chimney
Many homeowners falsely assume that all leaky chimneys present themselves as visible water in the fireplace or flue. However, because of the size and complexity of most chimney systems, chimney leaks are often not recognized until they’ve already caused significant damage.
Below are some of the signs that may indicate your chimney is leaking.
- Water or condensation inside the firebox
- Sound of dripping water in the chimney
- Moisture, leaks, or water staining on walls or ceilings around chimney
- Musty or dank odors, especially after it rains
- Cracked or spalled interior or exterior masonry
Preventing chimney leaks
The best way to prevent chimney leaks is by having regular preventative maintenance done on your fireplace and chimney. Annual chimney sweepings and inspections can often identify any new chimney or masonry damage, allowing you to have it repaired before it leads to a chimney leak.
Another option for preventing leaks and water damage to your chimney is to have your masonry waterproofed. The waterproofing process involves the application of a specially designed sealant that keeps water out while allowing the masonry to retain its semi porous nature. These products can even be applied to chimneys with existing water damage as a way to keep it from getting worse.
If a summer rainstorm has left you with a leaky chimney, contact Lord’s Chimney today. Our expert staff can identify and resolve the source of your leaky chimney!
