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Chimney problems can affect the operations of your fireplace and the safety of your home.  It is important to keep your chimney well maintained and fix problems before they worsen.  Being aware of potential chimney repair needs and acting early saves money.

Leaky chimney flashing

Chimney flashing is used to seal the space between the roof and the chimney.  The installation of chimney flashing is a process that requires both skill and experience in order to create a seal that is watertight.

Over time, water can get through the flashing.  This can also happen if there is rust around the nails or if the flashing was not correctly installed in the first place.

Unfortunately, leaks of this nature often go undetected.  This can result in significant damage to the ceiling in the attic. In some cases, the roof might also experience a lack of structural integrity.

At least once every few months, it’s a good idea to do a visual inspection of the area of the attic where the chimney is located.  Pay particular attention to the ceiling.  If you see any areas of concern, contact a professional chimney repair company to assess the issue and make the necessary repairs.

Cracked or damaged crown

A cracked chimney crown, or one that is otherwise damaged, is another example of an issue that you’ll likely never be aware of. This is because the chimney crown is located at the top of stone  and masonry chimneys.

Designed of mortar mix, the crown seals the chimney from the flue liner edge to its outer edge.  It’s designed to prevent water from being able to enter the chimney’s cavities and walls.  The crown also acts as a barrier so rainwater isn’t able to get in between the masonry face and the flue liner.

Over time, the condition of the chimney cap can be affected by weather, erosion, chipping and cracking.  This could lead to moisture getting inside cracks in the mortar.  If this condition is discovered early enough, it might be possible to repair the crown.

However, in some cases, the chimney crown needs to be completely replaced In order to prevent this from happening in the first place, it’s a good idea to have the cap waterproofed.  Having the chimney crown inspected by a professional at least yearly ensures that its condition is properly monitored.

Chimney Mortar Joints

Mortar joints can deteriorate, leaving holes that admit water. In some cases, large sections of mortar in the joints may actually be missing, allowing water to enter during blowing rains.  The water may enter a hole in the mortar joint, move to a hole in the bricks, then follow a zigzag course for a few inches or several feet.  Water can enter through mortar joints, travel inside the brick holes to a point past the flashing, and then be directed onto a ceiling or continue all the way to the slab.

Installing a Chimney Cricket

Many roofs implement the use of a chimney cricket to help with water flow.  This additional structure is a special kind of flashing that diverts the water to prevent it from pooling on your roof. It sits at the back of your chimney, forming a pointed ridge for water to slide down.

You can have a chimney cricket installed using either wooden pieces or metal. This process will also involve using caulk and sealants to ensure water doesn’t get trapped underneath.

These common chimney problems can be costly if they aren’t discovered early.  In some cases, they can compromise the safety of your home.