Safeguard the Chimney from Water Damage: A Homeowner’s Guide

If you’ve ever noticed stains or pieces of brick or stone around your chimney after the changing seasons? You’re not alone. Furthermore, did you know that water damage is one of the most common and costly chimney problems reported by homeowners? There is a way to safeguard the chimney from water damage.
Safeguard the Chimney from Water Damage
Water has a sneaky way of finding its path inside the home by seeping through mortar cracks, flashing that has come away from the chimney or roof, or even the chimney cap, especially if it’s loose.
Rain or Melting Snow: When it rains or snows, it hardly ever goes straight down. It usually has wind to accompany its travels. This means rain can look like it’s going sidewise and chances are, it’s beating on all four sides of the chimney searching out the smallest cracks or weak spot to make its way in. As a homeowner, get the chimney inspected once per year to ensure any cracks in the mortar or even the chimney crown are found and repaired.
Once repaired, the best next step is to get the chimney bricks, mortar and chimney crown waterproofed with Chimney Saver. This seals the porous materials and keeps it from deteriorating prematurely. The waterproofing solution lasts for as long as 10 years.
Chimney Cap: The chimney cap has multiple uses for the chimney. The chimney cap keeps the water, snow and any debris from entering the chimney. And in the Fall season, little critters are searching for a warm place to stay to weather the snowy and cold winter. It’s best to keep them out of the chimney and harm’s way.
As a homeowner, this needs to be checked annually as well. It will not be a good thing if the chimney cap is loose. Getting it checked to ensure it can stand up to animals, wind and other factors in order to keep your chimney protected.
Snow and Ice: Snow and ice can wreak havoc on your chimney. The chimney will be under more stress if the buildup of snow and ice persists in the winter. It will push the chimney and flashing to the brink as it will constantly be testing the chimney’s endurance.
What are the Signs of Water Damage?
Water Stains: Look for water stains inside of the home. Water can travel a good distance, so be sure to check all of your rooms, both the ceiling and walls.
Mold and Mildew: If you find mold or mildew around the exterior chimney, then you know you have had moisture build up for a long time. This problem has been long neglected.
Large and Small Cracks: Small and large cracks in the mortar or even in the chimney flue can mean bigger problems. Homeowners can’t always get to the flue and know what to look for. This is where a certified chimney technician can be of help. Be sure to contact us for the expertise needed to identify any issues.
Prevent Water Damage
Most of what we discussed with a yearly inspection will prevent water damage and other potential issues as well. We’ll go through our 14-point inspection and share our findings with you via photos taken on your roof. Remember, it’s not so easy getting up on a roof to the chimney. That’s why we’re here to help, and show you what exactly is going on.
Getting an annual inspection will keep your home safe from damages. Contact us today 877-244-6349 to schedule your sweep, check and inspection to ensure a safe winter season.
This post first appeared on https://www.superiorchimney.net


Myth 1: Brick and Mortar Don’t Let Water In




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