Dangers Of Chimney Leaks
Don’t let a leaky chimney bring your holidays down. You should be concerned about any leak in your chimney. A leak may not look tragic, but it can lead to several other issues. Now is the time to check for any water leakage before the problem gets too big. Before you get into the hustle and bustle of the holidays, inspect your chimney. Peace of mind is what you will get out of it.
Where Do Leaks Originate?
Cracks in flashing
A chimney flashing’s main function is to prevent water from entering a building where the roof meets the chimney. Cracks in the flashing will allow water to enter this area.
Blocked flue vents
Not only is it dangerous if a flue is blocked as exhaust may enter the home, but it can also cause condensation buildup in the flue pipe, which can cause water damage.
No Chimney Cover
Without a cover, water from rain and melting snow can enter your chimney causing leaks in surrounding walls and ceilings.
Damaged Shingles or Bricks
Water can seep in and around bricks that may be cracked or shingles that are damaged. Correcting these issues can save further damage in the long run.
Cracks in Masonry
Cracks in masonry start small. With time water seeps in and creates larger cracks. The freeze thaw effect can make those cracks larger.
Cracks in Chimney Crown
The crown sits on the very top of the chimney. It is made out of cement. Wind, snow, and heat all contribute to wear and tear of the crown causing cracks.
How Can You Protect Your Chimney From Leaks?
The number one protection from an aging chimney would be to have an annual Chimney Sweep and Chimney Inspection. By calling Chimney Solutions and booking your inspection before the holidays are upon us, you can have the peace of mind that you have done everything possible to protect your home.
Take the time to observe the chimney structure. Look for cracked mortar between the bricks. Take a look at the flashing around the base of the chimney. This is an area that may become loose and dislodged. If you see that there are loose parts of the chimney, contact a professional chimney company. Don’t climb a ladder and try to fix it yourself.
Check the chimney cap as well. As with the flashing; wind, rain, and storms are constantly slashing at the cap. It often becomes dislodged and needs some repair.
Noticing some of these minor damages in advance can save you from major leaks. Make your appointment with Chimney Solution for any concerns that you may have. Tackling small issues will save you money if they get to the point where they cause major damage.
Look No Further Than Chimney Solutions Indiana!
Since our very first customer, we’ve been committed to delivering the highest level of customer care and the most professional and reliable chimney and fireplace services. Our technicians are expertly trained and certified by the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA), so there’s no aspect of chimney or fireplace service, installation, repair, or troubleshooting we can’t help you with.
