Do you suspect a chimney leak is stopping your chimney from functioning correctly? If so, read these telltale indicators that your chimney requires repair.
Do you suspect a chimney leak is stopping your chimney from functioning correctly? If so, read these telltale indicators that your chimney undeniably requires an inspection and repair. Also, we urge you to schedule an appointment with us today or call 443-CHIMNEY.
Indicators of a Chimney Leak
Your chimney might be leaking if:
- You hear leaking or see water droplets.
- Your fireplace has condensation inside of it.
- You smell mold or mildew, especially after it rains.
- The walls or ceiling by the chimney have water stains.
- Water leaks are in your home.
- The bricks have white stains.
- The interior or exterior masonry has cracks.
Common Causes
- A Chimney Doesn’t Have a Cover: Chimneys without caps risk rain falling directly into them. A chimney cover is a logical necessity because it keeps the rain, animals, and debris out of this structure. Additionally, it keeps out anything that could cause carbon dioxide poisoning.
- Chimney Crown Cracks: Look at your chimney. Do you see a cemented part at the top of it? This part is called the “crown.” The bricks go up and surround the tile flue. However, it’s still a must for something to be at the top to prevent snow and rain from falling into this structure. Chimney crown cracks stem from the structure shifting or shrinkage occurring from when the crown had its installation. Water goes right through these cracks.
- Chimney Flashing: A chimney’s flashing prevents leaks. It keeps water from entering where the brick comes through the roof. The bricks have a gap between them, and the roof and water will pour through an unsealed hole. Typically, flashing is aluminum and goes between a few bricks while bending to go on the top of the shingles. Waterproof material and tar usually seal this area. However, flashing and tar don’t last forever.
- Brick is Porous: Brick and mortar are both porous, meaning water can pass through them. The same applies characteristic applies to the crown. The freezing and cycling process during winter causes leaks in the house. After a while, it dries out when a brick or water joint absorbs water during the summer.
- Water in the Attic or Other Places: When other rooms have leaks, they can enter inside a room at the point where it meets the chimney. Water could get in the attic or above your ceiling. Then, it could drip to the floor or travel along with the long piece of wood that spaces out the woof trusses and runs the length of your house. Thus, water can travel and end up in the chimney.
Contact Champion Chimneys today if you need a chimney repair or inspection. Now is an excellent time to ensure that your chimney is in the best shape before the fall or winter.
Call the Experts at Champion Chimneys for a Chimney Inspection Today!
Champion Chimneys, Inc. is a fully licensed, bonded, and insured chimney service company that has served customers in Baltimore County, Howard County, and Anne Arundel County, Maryland since 2001. Our team is trained and certified by Certified Chimney Professionals, Inc. (CCP, Inc.). Courteous service is our trademark, and our crews arrive on time in uniform, driving fully equipped trucks. We specialize in all aspects of your chimney system. Whether you need chimney and flue cleaning service or a full chimney rebuild or inspection, contact us at 443-Chimney today and let us fix all your chimney problems. Also, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Pinterest.