The cost of having your chimney waterproofed is quite insignificant when compared to the cost of having a water-damaged chimney rebuilt and repairing other damage the incoming water has caused.
Anderson’s Chimney Sweeps & Masonry Services of New Cumberland, PA, would like to outline how chimney waterproofing works and why it’s a sound investment that can pay off big.
Waterproofing The Chimney
Various waterproofing and sealant products are available that can be applied to the masonry surfaces of a chimney as well as the concrete chimney crown to prevent water intrusion.
While old age will eventually wear out all masonry chimneys, water intrusion will accelerate the decay and can be very costly.
How Water Affects Chimneys
Water from rain and melting snow can easily get into the porous bricks and mortar used to build most modern chimneys. Once inside, the moisture will begin a gradual cycle of decay.
Damage is faster and more apparent when freezing temperatures cause the moisture housed within the masonry to expand, leading to larger cracks, breaks, loose bricks and crumbling sections of mortar.
The crown at the top of the chimney is also vulnerable. Made of concrete, it can become cracked over the years, and that’s all water needs to move in and begin breaking the crown apart.
The Dangers Of A Water-damaged Chimney
As indicated, water in a chimney can lead to both structural decay and damage to other parts of the chimney system and the home. Problems that often result when a chimney leak is ignored include:
- Bricks cracking and falling away
- Mortar crumbling and leaving gaps
- Deteriorated chimney crown
- Damage to the chimney liner, fireplace damper and firebox
- Chimney fires
- Smoke and carbon monoxide backups
- Roof and attic damage
- Water stains on the walls and ceiling near the chimney
- Mold growth that’s invisible until it reaches a dangerous level
Other Causes Of Masonry Damage
Water isn’t the only cause of initial damage to chimney masonry. Other events can get the damage started and allow water to take over:
- Earthquakes
- Lightning strikes
- Hail storms
- Powerful winds
- Major shifting of the house
- Unstable chimney footing
If your chimney has suffered damage from these or similar events, the first step is to have the problem repaired correctly, and then you can waterproof the chimney. Chimney waterproofing is a preventative measure, not a remedy for an already-damaged chimney.
And Then There’s The Aesthetics
We all want our chimneys to work efficiently and safely – this is why we schedule chimney sweeping, chimney inspections and repairs when needed. But how a chimney looks sitting on top of our homes is also important.
An ugly, water-damaged chimney offers no curb appeal and can mar the beauty of an otherwise lovely home. A chimney that’s been maintained and cared for will look great year after year and in all kinds of weather.
Call Anderson’s for chimney waterproofing
If you’re noticing evidence of damage to your chimney’s masonry, or if you’re seeing signs of a leaky chimney, call Anderson’s. Our masonry and chimney experts will find out what’s happening, repair any existing trouble, and then correctly waterproof your chimney to provide you with years of safety and security.
Call us today, or reach out with our simple contact form.