What to Do About a Leaky Chimney

Is your chimney leaking? If you notice any signs of leaking or wate damage then it’s time to have your chimney looked at. Doodlebuggers Fireplace, Grill & Outdoor Store provides leaky chimney repair throughout the greater Pensacola and Destin areas of Florida. We’ll find out why the leak is happening and get it fixed the right way.

Here are some common signs:

• Musty odors coming from the fireplace
• Water dripping into the firebox
• White staining (efflorescence) on the masonry
• Stains or damp patches on the walls and ceiling near the chimney

Why does a chimney leak?

Chimney leaks and water inside chimneys can be caused by several things. We’ll list a few of the more common causes below.

Missing or damaged chimney cap or chase top

An opening at the top of your chimney will let rain fall right in. Chimney caps and chase tops can become damaged by weather events and rust. Because you can’t usually see the very top of your chimney, a lot of damage can happen before you’re aware of it.

Cracks in the concrete chimney crown

The chimney crown is a slab of concrete that covers the entire top of the chimney, minus the flue opening. Over the years and with certain weather events, crowns can start to crack. This allows water to get in and further deteriorate the crown. Eventually, water will fall into the interior areas of your chimney.

Deteriorated chimney bricks and crumbling mortar

Bricks crack with age. They can also be damaged by hail, earthquakes, lightning and other events. A crack in a brick lets water in, where it begins an ongoing cycle of deterioration. Crumbling mortar will also let water move in and cause damage.

Rusted or warped chimney flashing

Flashing is the material that surrounds the base of the exterior chimney to keep rainwater out of the gap between the chimney and the roof. Flashing can rust or warp over time. When this happens, water can spill down into unseen areas of the home.

The solution to a leaky chimney starts with an inspection

If you notice signs of a chimney leak, you should schedule a chimney inspection immediately. When ignored, a leaky chimney can lead to progressive water damage that affects many areas of your chimney and home, including:

• The chimney masonry
• The firebox and fireplace damper
•  The chimney cap, crown and liner
• The roof
• The attic
• The walls, ceiling and flooring of your home and possibly other areas.

A licensed chimney inspector will find out why the chimney is leaking and identify any damage that the leak may have caused. He or she will consult with you and recommend the best way to resolve the problem. Solutions might include:

• Replacement of the chimney cap or flashing
• Repair of the chimney crown
• Brick replacement and tuckpointing (to repair damaged mortar)
• Chimney waterproofing
• Rebuilding of sections of the chimney or, in the worst case, the entire chimney

Solve your leaky chimney problem now

Doodlebuggers providesprofessional chimney inspections and all levels of chimney repair. We understand chimney leaks, and we know exactly how to put a stop to the problem. If your chimney is leaking or damaged in any way, our experienced crew is ready to help.

Reach a chimney expert today at (850) 477-1151 in Pensacola, FL, or at (850) 243-0154 in the Destin, FL, area. You can also get in touch with our handy contact form.