Your Trusted Chimney and Fireplace Company Lists the Possible Causes and Fixes for a Leaky Chimney
While you look forward to a multitude of activities during the long, warm days of summer, the one thing that may cause a temporary halt or disruption in your plans is the occasional summer storm. Ranging from mild to severe, a summer storm can bring about torrential rains, high winds, lightening and hail. Depending on the force of Mother Nature, you may be looking at possible damages to your fence, roof or even the chimney.
Although chimneys appear to be simple, straight columns of bricks and mortar, they actually have a fairly complicated structure. Moreover, for a lay person, it is difficult to pinpoint the exact spot of wear and tear within this structure, which means that if you have a leaky chimney, you may have to face the devastating consequences of harsh weather conditions. Water intrusion through a chimney is not only detrimental to its foundation, it may also affect the structural integrity of your home’s adjacent portions and cause issues such as mold and mildew. Read on to know more about the most common issues that can cause water leaks in a chimney.
What Causes a Leaky Chimney?
- Damaged Chimney Crown: Your chimney’s crown is like a concrete slab that seals the top and protects it from moisture, debris, or animal and bird intrusion. A crown made with sub-par materials, or one that already has wear and tear, is more susceptible to severe weather and can cause water seepage into the chimney and flue. If this problem goes undetected for an extended period of time, it could lead to extensive damage which may require the complete replacement of your chimney.
- Improper Flashing: Flashing is the strip of weatherproof metal that connects the chimney to the roofline. It seals that joint to prevent water from entering the surrounding roof, building materials or masonry. However, over time, the flashing may get beaten down by exposure to natural elements and lose its watertight seal. An incorrectly installed flashing may also prove to be ineffective in preventing water leaks into your home.
- Missing Or Broken Chimney Cap: A chimney cap is fitted on top of the chimney crown and it helps to cover and protect the flue. The cap lets smoke and hot air out but prevents leaves, debris, animals, birds or water from getting into the chimney. Harsh weather can cause chimney caps to be damaged or blown away completely, leaving your chimney exposed to leaks and other possible intrusions.
- Damaged Masonry: Over time, seasonal elements are likely to cause deterioration of the bricks and mortar structure of your chimney, leading to moisture absorption and potential leaks. Severe weather conditions will further aggravate and accelerate this damage.
If you have noticed any cracked bricks on the chimney, water in the firebox, or a dank odor in your home, especially after a rainstorm, it is time to reach out to the certified professionals at Elite Fireplace. Our 31-point inspection helps us determine the cause of your leaky chimney and provide a range of solutions in line with your needs and budget. We also offer maintenance services such as annual inspections and chimney sweeps.
For all your fireplace and chimney cleaning, repairs and maintenance in and around Philadelphia, call us at (610) 489-4274 today or contact us online. A representative will be in touch soon.