Common Causes of Chimney Leaks
A leaking chimney can lead to issues, including structural damage and mold growth. However, identifying the leak’s source can be tricky. In this post, we’ll tell you why chimney leaks are so dangerous and what you can do to prevent them.
Common Causes of Chimney Leaks
Chimney leaks happen for various reasons, but here are the most common.
Damaged or Missing Cap
Chimney caps sit atop the chimney and prevent rain, snow, and debris from entering. Water can easily get into the flue if the cap is damaged or missing, leading to cracks and water damage.
Cracked or Worn-Out Crown
The chimney crown is a cement or mortar piece at the top of the chimney, and it’s a barrier that guides water away from the chimney. However, because it’s made from cement or mortar, it’s susceptible to moisture, just like the chimney’s bricks. Once water gets in, it can freeze, leading to cracks and deterioration.
Faulty or Deteriorating Flashing
Flashing is the metal material installed where the chimney meets the roof. It prevents moisture from entering the gap that would be there without it. Flashing can be damaged in harsh weather, such as storms or high winds, or it may not have been properly installed in the first place.
Damaged flashing exposes your chimney and home to water ingress and potential damage.
Porous or Cracked Brick and Mortar
Bricks and mortar are porous materials and absorb water over time. This is problematic in areas with harsh winters because water seeps into these materials, freezes, and expands, causing cracks. If you don’t fix these cracks promptly, they’ll worsen, leading to deteriorating mortar joints and spalling bricks.
Condensation Issues
A poorly ventilated chimney, or one that doesn’t have a chimney liner, can form condensation inside. This excess moisture can lead to leaks, damage the flue liner, and weaken the chimney’s structure.
Roof Issues
Sometimes, the leak might not be with the chimney but with the roof around it. Damaged shingles, poor roofing installation, or inadequate waterproofing can allow water to get into the attic and create the appearance of a chimney leak.
Why Are Chimney Leaks Dangerous?
It’s easy to dismiss a chimney leak as a minor inconvenience, but if left unfixed, it can cause significant damage and costly repairs.
Structural Damage
As you’ve seen, water isn’t your chimney’s friend. When it gets inside, it can lead to cracked bricks and deteriorating mortar joints. Waiting too long to fix this can lead to a partial or total chimney collapse.
Mold and Mildew
Excess moisture makes the perfect breeding ground for mold and mildew. Mold growth looks unsightly, damages walls, and poses serious health risks, especially to people with compromised immune systems or respiratory conditions.
Higher Heating Costs
Chimney leaks can damage insulation, leading to heat loss. This can make your furnace or heater work harder to maintain the desired temperature and drive your energy bills through the roof.
How to Prevent Chimney Leaks
The good news is that chimney leaks are largely preventable, so here are some tips for being proactive.
Install a Chimney Cap
If there’s one thing you take away from this blog, it’s that water is awful for your chimney, and you must do everything to keep it out. The first line of defense against water ingress is the chimney cap. If you don’t have a chimney cap, install one as soon as possible. They’re inexpensive and easy to install. If you do have a cap, but it’s damaged, fix it or replace it.
Repair or Seal the Crown
Inspect the chimney crown for cracks or deterioration and fix issues as they come up. The longer you wait to fix cracks and other damage, the worse it gets, and the more water gets into the chimney. If the crown looks in good condition, consider applying a waterproof sealant.
Inspect the Flashing
Get up on the roof, look at the flashing, and check for loose or missing pieces or corrosion. These are signs that water is getting in despite the flashing.
Waterproof the Chimney
Applying a breathable waterproof product to the chimney can prevent water absorption, which can prevent water-related problems and extend your chimney’s lifespan.
Schedule a Professional Inspection
Annual chimney inspections by a certified professional can identify problems that you might miss. Professional chimney sweeps have the training and experience to identify and fix potential problems before they escalate.
Contact Northeastern Chimney for a professional inspection and waterproofing. We’re Central Connecticut’s trusted partner for all things chimney and fireplace-related.