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While maintaining your chimney, you might run into problems such as chimney leaks.  Chimney leaks are a common occurrence and there are many reasons why your chimney can be leaking.  It’s important to catch any chimney leaking early on so it doesn’t snowball into something worse down the road.  Below are some of the most common causes for chimney leaks and how you can fix them so you can enjoy your fireplace in the fall and winter.

Chimney Crown

There may be a leak in the chimney due to an issue with the chimney crown.  The crown is a piece of cement that is at the top of the chimney.  This will help prevent moisture and water from getting into the lining of the flue. This is part of the masonry work. If there is damage to the crown the chimney will not work properly.  This will allow moisture to get in and will lead to more damage.  It can also be a reason while water is getting into the home and causing more damage.

If the cracks are not fixed, they will allow moisture into the home.  This will damage the entire chimney.  The crown and the entire structure should have an annual inspection by a professional and any repairs need to be addressed immediately.  The sooner any issues with the crown, the sooner it can be repaired and at less of an expense to the homeowner.

The longer these issues are allowed to go the more expensive it will be to repair.  The more work it will also be to fix the problem.  Not only will the chimney need to be fixed but water damage to the home will need to be taken care of as well.

Chimney Flashing

If the chimney is leaking there may be a problem with the flashing.  The flashing is where the chimney and the roof meet.  If the chimney is not joined with the roof, water can leak in and this will damage the structure.  There is a material that is known as flashing and it is used to create a seal between the chimney and the roof. This will keep water from getting into the home.

The flashing is usually made from aluminum but over time there can be damage.  This is one of the most common causes of leaks.  It is wise to have the flashing inspected often.  There may not be enough flashing installed which can also lead to leaks.  If there is an issue this needs to be repaired right away to prevent damage.  It is best to make sure the flashing is high quality.

Chimney Masonry

The masonry work of the chimney can be leading to issues.  Bricks are mortar are made with water and then allowed to harden. The bricks can take in water over time.  As they absorb this water, the temperature drops.  The water turns to ice and expands.  This will cause cracks to form in the bricks.  When the ice melts the cracks are still there.

The bricks will not be able to stop the water and leaks can happen.  Since the bricks are part of the main structure this is a very important area to check.  They should be secure and they should not allow water to get into the home.

Chimney Condensation

One of the more rare cases of chimney leaks is condensation building up inside and causing it to leak through.  Chimney leaks caused by condensation happen when a chimney is converted from wood burning to gas burning and isn’t fitted with the proper liner.

Gas fireplaces give off fumes with moisture due to the lower temperatures and of the correct liner isn’t installed, that moisture can build up and seep through your chimney walls.