Ways Water Can Cause Damage To Your Chimney

Erosion is caused by waters of the ocean crashing on the beach. Similarly, erosion can cause damage to your chimney.  The weather is harsh at times.  Rain, snow, wind, and ice crashing at your chimney. During the winter snow and ice accumulates on your roof. As well as around your chimney. This causes the breakdown of the masonry and structure, and the erosion occurs.

According to the Chimney Safety Institute of America, (CSIA), water that stays in your chimney and masonry for a prolonged period of time, causes the most damage. During the winter, water can accumulate, freeze, expand, thaw, and repeat.  You can only imagine the damage that this can cause.  Bricks and mortar are porous, water will get in and cause havoc on your chimney.

What type of damage can occur?

• Water gets into the chimney and breaks down the masonry bricks and chimney crown.
• Due to the freezing and thawing effect, the structure of your chimney becomes weak. You may see cracking or even brick particles in your firebox.
• With standing water, there is always a concern with mold and mildew. You will want to clean out the chimney to protect your home. If left alone, mold and mildew can expand into your home.
• Firebox condensation is caused by water getting inside the chimney. The sweating may have a huge impact on the brickwork. Left untreated, moisture will cause the breakdown of the bricks and mortar. If unattended this may lead to costly repairs.

What causes a leaky Chimney?

One of the major reasons for a leak is the absence of a properly installed chimney cap. This is a simple fix for many issues, one being the water exposure through the top of the chimney.

The Solution

Schedule an annual visit from your chimney sweep. With proper care, your chimney will last for many years to come. You may choose to add a waterproofing solution that will help protect your bricks and mortar.  Call your chimney repair professional for suggestions and information. Always be aware of obvious problems. It will benefit you if you act on unusual signs of breakdown in advance.  Watch for cracked bricks and mortar. We hope this information is helpful and brings you years of reliable fires.

Oliver Twist Chimney Sweep is family owned and has operated for over 30 years.

Both homeowners & real estate professionals come to us as their go-to source for all things chimney and fireplace cleanings, repairs, sales & installations.

We service both small & large chimney & fireplace repairs, construction, and installations (i.e. projects ranging from simple chimney sweep/difficult inspections, and complete fireplace construction jobs that most contractors won’t even touch.)  Contact Oliver Twist Chimney Sweep at 714-843-9944 or through our online contact form.