What To Do When You Have a Leaking Chimney or Roof?

Who do you call?

It is getting to be that time of year when April showers bring more than May flowers, they bring leaks too!

The reason your Chimney is leaking may be a mystery, but what can also be unclear is exactly which direction you should turn for help. Should you call a roofer, a chimney company, or a brick mason? Well, that depends on what type of chimney repair you need, each of these trades’ repairs specific pieces of the Chimney structure, and while there is some overlap in the work, all three trades are useful and needed somewhere within the chimney repair lineup.

When we experience leaks, we usually call the roofing company. However, there are many reasons we encourage you to start by calling your chimney company first:

Why You Shouldn’t Call a Roofer for Chimney Leaks

It’s raining outside, and you happen to notice water dripping down the side of your fireplace. Upon closer look, it appears to be coming from the ceiling. Since it seems to be a roofing problem, you may be inclined to call a roofer. But when you are experiencing chimney problems like a water leak, you really need to call a qualified chimney contractor first, not a roofer.

While roofers do a great job repairing and replacing roofs, they don’t always have the extensive knowledge or experience required for chimney inspections and repairs. A reputable roofer often advises the homeowner to contact a chimney specialist to repair leaks.

Why is My Chimney Leaking?

There are several reasons why your Chimney may be leaking:

Damaged or Missing Chimney Cap

The chimney cap is affixed above the crown at the very top of the Chimney. Its purpose is to keep small animals, debris, and water out of the flue. Water can leak inside the exposed Chimney if the cap is missing or damaged.

Cracked Crown

The crown is a cement structure at the top of the Chimney (just below the chimney cap). Its purpose is to seal the edges and direct water away from the flue liner to prevent water leaks. The chimney crown deteriorates with age, and cracks allow water to penetrate the Chimney.

Spalling or Missing Bricks

The brickwork at the top of the Chimney, especially where it meets the roof line, can become damaged after years of exposure to rain, sleet, snow, wind, and even debris. The hard outer shell becomes porous, absorbing moisture and causing bricks to decay. This can result in cracked and missing bricks that allow moisture to penetrate through the ceiling above the fireplace.

Damaged Flashing

The chimney flashing is a thin strip that transitions the Chimney to the roof with a seal. When the flashing is damaged or bent, you lose the seal, and water can leak through any exposed air pockets.

Repairing Chimney Leaks

Best Chimney’s team are certified specialists with extensive training and knowledge of the entire chimney system. They also have the tools and equipment to conduct a thorough inspection of the Chimney to identify the source(s) of chimney leaks and make any necessary repairs. We are experts in all chimney repairs, including sealing, repairing chimney caps and crowns, replacing missing bricks, and rebuilding chimneys.

Many types of chimney leaks can be avoided with an annual chimney inspection. During an annual inspection, our certified specialists visually inspect the entire chimney structure from top to bottom, inside and out. Our specialists often spot potential problems before they develop into more expensive repairs.

Thinking of getting a new roof?

• It is very important to schedule your chimney inspection before you do a roofing job.
• A chimney inspection before a new roof is essential to ensure the structure is in good condition.
• By inspecting first, potential issues that may require repairs before installing a new roof can be identified.
• Inspecting the Chimney ensures that things like flashing, and the brickwork are sound so that the proper shingles can be securely installed.
• Inspecting a chimney before getting a new roof reduces the risk of leaking or other damage resulting from an improperly installed surface.
• Furthermore, often roofing companies do not want anyone walking on the roof after a new installation.

Contacting us first for chimney leaks can save you a lot of time and money too!

The post What To Do When You Have a Leaking Chimney or Roof? appeared first on Boston's Best Chimney.