Leaky Chimney Problems? Northeastern Masonry & Chimney Can Fix and Prevent Chimney Leaks!
Do your chimney and fireplace smell damp and moldy? Are you noticing signs of water damage like rust streaks, brick deterioration, or vegetation on your chimney or fireplace? If so, give Northeastern Masonry & Chimney a call as soon as possible. A leaky chimney can quickly deteriorate, and by the time you notice the signs, extensive damage is already done. That’s why annual chimney inspections and preventative measures are so important. The best way to keep water problems at bay is to identify weak areas early on and arm your system against water intrusion – and we can help with that.
When we’re called in for water problems, we work to pinpoint water entry areas, using our 25-point water entry evaluation. We start with some of the most common entry points, such as the flashing, the roof area surrounding the chimney, the chimney cap, the chimney crown, and the masonry of the chimney. Once we’ve done a comprehensive evaluation of your system, we’ll discuss the most effective approaches with you, so that you can choose the best plan of attack for your family and home. You can book an appointment with Northeastern Masonry & Chimney today by clicking here or calling us at 518-767-9315.
Why Is My Chimney Leaking?
Chimney leaks are a frustrating issue, but they’re more common than you might think. Water is the primary enemy of any chimney, and when it gets inside, it can lead to many problems. With the weather in St. Louis, your chimney is exposed to both heat and freezing temperatures, making it especially vulnerable to leaks. But what causes those leaks?
One of the biggest culprits is faulty chimney flashing. Flashing is the metal seal that connects your chimney to the roof. Over time, this seal can crack, rust, or simply pull away, allowing water to seep in. The chimney crown, which sits on top and acts as a barrier, can also crack or wear down. These cracks create openings for water to penetrate the brickwork.
Brick and mortar damage is another frequent cause of chimney leaks. The masonry can deteriorate due to natural aging and this is worsened due to the freeze-thaw cycle which causes the bricks to expand and contract. This process weakens the masonry, creating cracks and holes that let water in. Chimneys that haven’t been waterproofed are especially vulnerable to this kind of wear and tear.
How Do I Know if My Chimney Is Leaking?
Knowing the signs of a chimney leak early on is key to preventing extensive damage. Water damage isn’t always immediately obvious, but there are a few telltale signs to keep an eye out for.
One of the first things you may notice is water staining on the ceiling or walls near your fireplace. These stains are often yellow or brown and indicate that water has seeped into the surrounding area. You might also notice a musty smell coming from your fireplace or chimney. This is often a sign that water has been trapped inside the chimney for a while, creating a damp environment where mold can grow.
If you use your chimney regularly, you may see rust forming on metal components like the damper or firebox. Rust is a clear sign that water has entered your chimney system and is causing damage. Peeling paint or wallpaper around the chimney is another indicator of excess moisture. As the water seeps through the chimney, it affects the interior walls, causing the paint or wallpaper to bubble, crack, or peel.
In some cases, you might even notice visible cracks in the brickwork, especially around the crown or near the base of the chimney. These cracks can allow water to enter and cause further damage over time. If left unchecked, the brick-and-mortar will deteriorate, leading to more serious structural issues. Lastly, during a rainstorm, you may hear water dripping inside the chimney flue. This is a pretty clear indicator that water is getting in through the top.
How Northeastern Masonry & Chimney Can Fix Your Leaky Chimney
Northeastern Masonry & Chimney has several options available to St. Louis homeowners to keep chimneys safe from water intrusion.
Whenever rain, snow, or sleet threatens, your chimney stands guard, diligently working to keep your flue and chimney system dry. If you think about it, it’s a pretty tough job, and the more help your chimney has, the better. That’s why we highly recommend having your chimney system professionally waterproofed. Our technicians have extensive experience applying the best and most effective waterproofing products on the market. These products were designed specifically for use on chimney systems and can help keep your chimney dry without harming the masonry.
Flashing Repair & Installation
Flashing refers to the sheets of metal that are strategically installed at the joints where your chimney exits the roof. When properly installed and maintained, flashing can be incredibly effective at keeping water out of your chimney system and home. Unfortunately, not all installations are done properly, not all materials are high quality and durable, and animals and strong storms can pry or tear flashing. Here at Northeastern Masonry & Chimney, we’re flashing repair and installation experts and guarantee a quality flashing job that is sure to last.
Smelly and/ or Decayed Chimney
A properly functioning chimney system should not produce any noticeable smells in the home. If you’ve noticed smoke, mildew, or other unpleasant odors emanating from your chimney, you likely have either a water or air pressure problem. For the respiratory health of your family and the wellness of your chimney, contact us immediately upon noticing an odor issue.
Water is the primary culprit behind chimney decay, often causing significant damage before homeowners become aware of the problem. This underscores the importance of annual inspections, which can identify water issues or other concerns like creosote buildup early on, preventing serious deterioration. If your chimney is already showing signs of decay, prompt action is crucial to halt further damage and ensure the system’s efficiency, safety, and structural integrity.
How Do I Prevent My Chimney From Leaking in the Future?
While water damage can be a big headache, there are several steps you can take to prevent chimney leaks and keep your system in good working order. The first line of defense is ensuring that your chimney has a proper cap. A chimney cap prevents rain, snow, and debris from entering the flue, making it a crucial part of keeping water out. If you don’t have a cap or if your existing cap is damaged, having a new one installed is a quick and affordable solution.
Next, pay attention to the condition of your chimney’s flashing. This metal seal between the chimney and roof is one of the most vulnerable points for water intrusion. Flashing can warp, crack, or corrode as a natural part of aging, so it’s important to have it inspected regularly – especially after a major storm. If you notice any issues, have the flashing repaired or replaced right away.
Waterproofing your chimney is another highly effective way to protect it from leaks. Chimney waterproofing involves applying a specialized sealant to the masonry. This sealant prevents water from soaking into the brickwork while still allowing moisture inside the chimney to escape. It’s a long-lasting solution that can greatly extend the life of your chimney and reduce the risk of leaks.
Finally, regular chimney inspections are crucial for catching potential leaks before they become a serious problem. During an inspection, a professional will check the condition of the crown, cap, flashing, and masonry to ensure everything is in good shape. By addressing small issues early on, you can avoid major water damage down the road.
Is Chimney Leak Repair Covered by Homeowners Insurance?
One of the biggest concerns homeowners have when facing a chimney leak is whether or not the repairs will be covered by insurance. The answer depends on the specific cause of the leak and the terms of your policy.
In most cases, if the leak is the result of sudden damage, like a storm or other unexpected event, it’s probable that your homeowners’ insurance will cover the cost of repairs. For example, if a severe storm caused the flashing to fail, or if lightning struck and damaged the chimney, these repairs would typically be covered under your policy. However, it’s important to check with your insurance company to confirm the details of your coverage.
Keep in mind that many policies exclude damage resulting from neglect or lack of maintenance. If your chimney has been leaking for years due to cracked masonry or a missing chimney cap, your insurance provider may consider this an issue that should have been addressed earlier.
The best way to avoid hiccups is to stay on top of your annual chimney maintenance. Regular inspections, waterproofing, and prompt repairs can help prevent leaks and ensure your chimney remains in good shape year-round. If you do experience a leak, having detailed records of maintenance and inspections can support your claim if you need to involve your insurance.
Northeastern Masonry & Chimney Can Keep Your Chimney Leak-Free
Whether you’re dealing with a recent issue or simply want to stay ahead of potential problems, the team of experienced chimney professionals from Northeastern Masonry & Chimney is here to provide the expert guidance and services you need. Contact us today to schedule an inspection and get your chimney back on track. Book with us online or call us at 518-767-9315 today!
Water damage can lead to cracks and mortar damage. We offer crown repairs as part of our comprehensive chimney & masonry repair offerings.