Chimney Leaks: Warning Signs & Prevention
A leaky chimney is no fun. Just ask anyone who’s spent huge amounts of money on chimney repair services after water has caused severe damage. While we can’t stop the water in the form of rain and snow, we definitely can keep our chimneys in great shape and do quite a bit to prevent new cycles of damage.
How do chimney leaks start?
There are three primary ways water can cause a leaky chimney.
Flowing in from the top:
If a chimney has no cap or its crown is cracked or broken apart, water has a clear path down into the flue.
Damaged or warped roof flashing:
If the material that forms a seal between the chimney and the roof is damaged, water can run down the outside of the chimney within the house structure and start decaying the chimney’s masonry.
Cracks in bricks and mortar:
Severe weather temperatures and plenty of snow and rain eventually can cause cracks in the chimney’s bricks and mortar. When water freezes, it expands, causing even more masonry damage.
Is your chimney leaking?
Here are common signs of a chimney leak:
- Water in the firebox
- Dampness/staining on interior house walls and ceiling
- Musty odors coming from the firebox or the attic
- White discoloration (efflorescence) on the chimney’s external masonry
- Chimney liner damage
- Damper that won’t open or close completely due to rust
These signs indicate that the leak may have been going on for some time. Early signs of damage that lead to a leaky chimney may not be easy to spot without a professional chimney inspection.
The value of certified chimney inspections
Trained chimney inspectors know chimney systems literally inside and out. They know how to spot very early signs of water leaks and other damage and recommend the correct method to solve the problem. An annual chimney inspection is a preventative measure that can save you big money and ensure a safe and efficient chimney.
During a chimney inspection, the technician will examine the interior and exterior surfaces of the chimney’s masonry as well as components such as the chimney cap, chimney crown, chimney chase top, roof flashing, throat and top-sealing dampers, chimney liner and more.
A special video technology known as Chim-Scan allows the inspector to see down inside the flue to check for cracks in the chimney liner, deteriorated masonry and other signs of water damage.
Preventing chimney leaks
Keeping your chimney’s structure and components free of damage and in top shape is the best line of defense against chimney leaks. Another way to prevent a leaky chimney is waterproofing.
The chimney masonry as well as the chimney crown at the top of the structure can be waterproofed with a sealing compound that will prevent water damage and keep water from getting into existing cracks.
You can do your part in preventing severe and expensive damage from chimney leaks by keeping an eye out for signs of a leaky chimney and contacting a certified chimney sweep/chimney repair technician if you notice a problem.
Chimney Specialists of Highland, WI, can help you keep your chimney running safely and efficiently all winter long. Call (608) 929-4887 to learn more about our certified chimney inspection, chimney leak repair and chimney sweep services.
In the Dubuque, Iowa, area, contact Dubuque Fireplace & Patio for all the above services performed by experienced, certified technicians.
