How Waterproofing Can Save Your Chimney
Chimney waterproofing is a relatively simple job, but it starts paying big dividends the moment it’s finished. Approved Chimney of Hackensack, NJ, does a lot of chimney waterproofing projects throughout Bergen County, NJ, and we’d like to tell you a little about the process.
Why is Your Chimney Leaking?
Assuming you’re having the waterproofing done in response to a leak (rather than for preventive maintenance), the first step is to determine why the leak occurred. There could be several reasons:
- Cracked, decayed, and missing masonry bricks
- Old, deteriorating mortar between the bricks
- A chimney cap that’s unseated or severely damaged
- Cracks and breaks in the chimney crown
- Dislodged, warped, or missing chimney flashing
If the water is coming in through the chimney cap or damaged flashing, those components can be repaired or replaced. Leaks through the concrete chimney crown or the chimney masonry need to be properly repaired before applying the sealant.
Waterproofing a Chimney
Following repair work, your technician will apply a coating of professional-grade chimney water sealant to all accessible areas of your masonry and crown.
The sealant provides two important benefits:
- It keeps water from rain and melting snow from penetrating
- It provides a vapor-permeable barrier that allows naturally occurring moisture beneath the sealant to escape
The job isn’t complicated, but must be done right, so unless you’re experienced with chimney waterproofing products and the process, it’s best to hire a local professional.
What Excess Moisture Can Do to Your Chimney
There’s an old saying that every chimney worker knows: Water and chimneys don’t mix. If any part of your chimney masonry or crown has been damaged by a weather event, old age, a chimney fire, or low-quality bricks, mortar, or concrete, the leak and damage will most certainly get worse and not better.
Water in chimney bricks deteriorates the brick material. When water turns to ice and expands in cold weather, serious internal brick damage will occur. It’s the same with the chimney crown: small cracks can let water move in and start a cycle of progressive damage.
Water intrusion can lead to:
- Chimney liner damage
- Damage to unseen interior masonry surfaces
- Rust all over the fireplace damper, possibly to the point of inoperability
- Mold growth in areas where dampness remains in dark, unventilated areas
- Widespread chimney masonry and chimney crown damage
- A chimney that begins to lean to one side
- A chimney that collapses
Spotting Leaks in Your Chimney
Here are seven signs to watch for that indicate a chimney leak. Have these issues inspected and resolved immediately.
- White staining on the masonry indicates that water is penetrating the bricks
- Spalling (flaking) or cracked bricks; visible damage to the chimney crown
- Crumbling mortar between bricks
- Damp, musty odors in the attic or chimney flue
- Mold growth anywhere on or around the chimney and fireplace system
- A rusty fireplace damper that’s hard to operate
- Water stains on the walls and ceiling near the fireplace
Keep in mind that while most of the above are traditional signs of a leaky chimney, some may be caused by other factors. This is why an inspection is so important.
Help for Your New Jersey Chimney
If your chimney is damaged or leaking, Approved Chimney is ready to fix it! We provide licensed chimney inspections, repairs, sweeping, and waterproofing. Reach out by phone or through our contact form in the greater Hackensack, NJ, area.
