Common Causes of Chimney Leaks
A lack of chimney maintenance results in various costly problems, including leaky chimneys. Qualified chimney sweeps familiar with the common causes of chimney leaks can best pinpoint the root of the issue. The work is like that of a detective because of the many potential causes of moisture intrusion.
Homeowners in the Richmond VA area have an advantage because skilled chimney sleuths are nearby. The CSIA-certified chimney sweeps at Chimney Saver Solutions have the skill and experience to identify the cause of a chimney leak and provide the right fix. Common causes of chimney leaks follow.
No Chimney Cap or Chimney Chase Cover
A cover is needed at the top of your chimney, no matter what sort of chimney you have. The lack of a cover is one of the most common causes of chimney leaks. It is essential to prevent precipitation from falling straight down into the chimney.
Moisture is any chimney’s worst enemy. Keeping rain, ice, sleet, and snow out is accomplished with a chimney cap or a chimney chase cover. Chimney caps are installed over masonry fireplaces, and chimney chase covers are placed like shoebox lids over the chimneys of manufactured fireplaces. The type of material used determines their longevity. From least to most durable, typical materials are aluminum, stainless steel, and copper. In general, chimney chase covers are most vulnerable to leaks.
A Cracked Chimney Crown
The white part at the very top of masonry chimneys is the chimney crown. It appears to be cement, but chimney crowns are often made with substandard materials. During annual inspections when all accessible parts of a chimney are inspected, chimney crowns are often found to be cracked or crumbling. A fix is needed to prevent major damage to the chimney structure. Chimney leaks can result in the need for full or partial chimney rebuilds.
Chimney crown repair is possible if extensive deterioration has not occurred. Having a masonry chimney waterproofed by chimney technicians is recommended to provide additional protection against moisture intrusion. Waterproofing is undeniably beneficial for chimney crowns, which are prone to cracking.
Flashing Repair is Needed
The metal part of chimneys is known as the flashing. Its purpose is to create a waterproof seal between the roof and the chimney. Unfortunately, it is difficult to install chimney flashing correctly. Chimney sweeps know this well because flashing is assuredly among the most common causes of chimney leaks. At Chimney Saver Solutions, our technicians always garner extensive experience in stopping chimney leaks by fixing chimney flashing.
Contact the Pros at Finding and Fixing Chimney Leaks
At Chimney Saver Solutions, our team of certified chimney professionals is familiar with the common causes of chimney leaks. No one is better equipped to help you avoid the hazards of leaving chimney leaks untreated. Once we identify the issue, we offer the best solutions to fix it. Our services include chimney leak repairs, inspections, chimney cleaning, masonry work, chimney cap installations, flashing repair, crown repairs, and complete or partial masonry rebuilds.
Don’t wait—contact us today to protect your home from chimney leaks. Call us or fill out our online form to get started today.
