Exterior Problems (e.g.) Chimney repairs-Chimney leaks

The chimney when working correctly is a significant part of the home. However when it is not working correctly it can be a unsightly issue or even a safety concern typically noticed through chimney leaks.

Bricks that appear to be flaking or missing is called "Spalling" this is caused by water being trapped in the brick and in cold climates the water freezes and expands. This reaction then pops the facing off the brick.

The crown of the chimney is essentially the "roof" of the chimney. Its main purpose is to divert water off the top of the chimney. The crown can develop cracks and is the source of many chimney leak issues that are unknown to the homeowner.

The flashing is the barrier between the chimney and the roof. It is also the source of 90% of chimney leak issues into the home. There are also several types of flashing.

The Mortar joints are the connecting force between all bricks. Over time though the weather can slowly eat away these joints creating weak or even missing joints all together. Posing dangerous conditions where a chimney could even collapse.

Brick issues can be resolved by ...

1. Remove all loose flaking brick on the chimney surface

2. Use a water based masonry sealer. Silicone based products will actually do more damage to your chimney than good.

3. Use a masonry saw to cut out and replace bricks that are to far gone to save.

The cement crown typically has cracks in the top. DO NOT use tar or roofing sealers on the crown. The crown can be repaired by filling cracks in with a high grade clear 100% waterproof silicone. Or pouring a new cement crown over the existing one. A proper crown should be 4" thick and have a 1" drip edge all the way around. There are also other professional options for this repair as well.

The flashing has several options for repair. The most typical for homeowners is tar or roof compound. These are usually put on with a brush and require reapplication. They will crack over a period of a couple years. There are also other professional options that are much better than standard homeowner options.

When mortar  are missing and filled back in this process is called "Tuck pointing" The old joints are cleaned out and can be replaced with mortar mix that can be found at your local home improvement store. Typically "Type S" remix mortar, not remix concrete.

Resolutions by professionals are not much different than homeowner repairs. Professionals however have access to higher grade waterproofing made just for chimneys compared to low cost home repair options. They also have experience cutting bricks out of chimneys and rebuilding if necessary.

The cement crown  repairs completed by professionals can include the use of special coatings made just for the chimney profession or making forms on the top and pouring brand new chimney crowns that meet all building code specifications.

The flashing can be removed and replaced but often causes discoloration in shingles that do not match. Professionals can use alternative coatings to seal and bond existing flashings and stop leaks for good.

Professionals have experience in tuck pointing which simply make a neater and clean finish when completed. Some homeowners not comfortable with the great deal of labor needed with tuck pointing might find professional help.

If you have questions for our professional staff or would like to schedule professional service.Please Call (814) 897-5817