We Fix Leaky Chimneys
Right about the time April showers are making way for May flowers, our qualified chimney technicians at Felgemacher Masonry & Chimney go on more than the usual number of service calls for leaky chimneys. The worst thing about chimney leaks is that they tend to go undetected until the damage done is extensive. The best way to avoid a costly leaky chimney scenario in your home is to schedule annual chimney inspections. Knowing what to look for also helps. Below are some of the causes of chimney leaks. No matter the cause, Felgemacher is the place to call for repairs.
Masonry Deterioration
Masonry chimneys aren’t always as durable as they appear to be. Mortar typically lasts about 25 years. The mortar can be repaired with a procedure called “tuckpointing” as long as the moisture hasn’t already infiltrated the bricks. Once water is in the masonry system, the freezing and thawing cycles of winter cause bricks to expand and contract. As a result of the movement, the bricks begin to break and flake off. The integrity of your home becomes compromised, and the leak could cause interior damage.
Faulty Flashing
The metal connection between the chimney and the rooftop is supposed to create a watertight seal. It’s tricky business to correctly install flashing and, as a result, the job of flashing installation is often poorly done. Another potential problem is rust. We often see extensive roof damage caused by water that gets through a rusty nail and rusted flashing. At Felgemacher, our experience fixing leaky chimneys is extensive
Water Deflection Needed
The various components of chimneys on the rooftop work together to prevent moisture from damaging the masonry. Sometimes, water flow on the roof becomes the biggest threat to a chimney. When heavy streams of water on the roof flow directly against the masonry, it can greatly accelerate the deterioration of the bricks. One of the ways we fix leaky chimneys is by installing a “cricket,” which is a water deflector that protects the chimney from being inundated with water every time it rains.
No Cap or Chase Cover
A chimney cap is an “accessory” installed over the flue, and it prevents water and snow from going directly into the chimney. If your chimney doesn’t have a chimney cap–or a chimney chase cover for metal flues—it is important to have one installed without delay.
Cracked Crown
The cement material at the top of masonry chimneys is the chimney crown, and it helps to keep water out of the chimney system. The material used for the crown is sometimes a far less durable material that tends to quickly crack and deteriorate. All types eventually crack, however, and chimney crown repair or rebuild is needed. Otherwise, the water leaks could also cause damage inside your home
Felgemacher Masonry & Chimney
Our professional chimney sweeps at Felgemacher Masonry & Chimney fix leaky chimneys. We also specialize in chimney sweeping, hearth installation, and residential chimney restoration as well as tuckpointing, bricklaying, and much more. Call us at our Buffalo or Rochester office to make an appointment. Contact details follow.
