It’s important to get regular inspections and chimney cleaning in Dallas. This can not only reduce the chances of fires, but it can also locate leaks that could cause additional problems for your chimney. There are a few different reasons your chimney may leak. Here are some of the most commons causes you should know about.
Cracked Chimney Crown
The crown is the cement part at the very top of the chimney. The crown’s job is to keep the rain and snow out of the chimney so that the moisture doesn’t go in between the flue lining and the masonry. Cracks can sometimes form on the crown because of normal shifting from the house or chimney or shrinkage around the crown. These cracks allow moisture to seep into the chimney. Regular chimney inspections are important because they can help locate these leaks in the early stages. This prevents further damage that’s sure to develop since the water will freeze and thaw all winter and grow into a more serious problem. The problem can be addressed with a coating to prevent water penetration before you need to replace the crown entirely.
Moisture Penetration from the Top
Another reason you might get water leaking into your chimney is that you don’t have adequate coverage at the top of the chimney. A chimney cap not only helps keep debris and animals out of your chimney, but it can also help keep moisture out. Without the cap, your chimney is more susceptible to leaks, which can cause serious damage after time because of the expanding and contracting and masonry, as well as the potential for a rusted damper or damaged flue liner.
Damaged Flashing
Flashing is an essential roofing component that’s installed where the chimney meets the roof. The flashing is usually aluminum and is used to cover the gap between the bricks and the shingles. A waterproof material seals the flashing to the chimney and roof, but it can sometimes deteriorate from sun exposure or be damaged by storms. The metal can also get damaged and pull away from the chimney, which causes a leaky chimney. In some cases, the flashing can simply be repaired to create a more watertight seal, or it may need to be replaced altogether.
Condensation
Sometimes the leak can actually come from inside the chimney. A brick chimney without a liner will have a lot more problems with condensation inside the chimney when it’s used for a gas fireplace or appliance. The fumes from the gas are low temperature and contain quite a bit of moisture. An unlined chimney typically stays very cold, so the fumes escaping up the chimney will create condensation within the chimney. The only way to solve this problem is to have a chimney liner installed. Fortunately, this can usually be done without disturbing the structural integrity of the chimney.
Broken Masonry
The masonry on your chimney can usually last decades without deteriorating. However, the mortar between the bricks doesn’t last nearly as long. When the mortar isn’t adequate, water will penetrate the bricks and cause issues from the freeze/thaw cycle. Along with problems from a leaky chimney, you’ll have the chimneys structural integrity to worry about. That’s why it’s important to get chimney repair in Dallas if you suspect your masonry is compromised or if you want to have it weatherproofed better. Contact Atlanta Chimney Doctor today to get your chimney inspected and repaired.