There is nothing more irritating than a leak. I’m talking about any leak at all. This could include a leak under your sink, a leak under your car, and especially a leak from your chimney. One little leak is the source of so much stress and frustration. What do I do now? How much is this going to cost? Who do I call? These are all questions that race through every person’s mind the second they see a sign of a leak.
Luckily for you, if you have a chimney leak, you’ve come to the right place. Winston’s Chimney Services would be happy to perform a chimney and fireplace inspection and determine the next course of action for you. Consider it a chimney inspection checklist that you don’t have to worry about. We will handle all of your chimney concerns!
What Are the Most Common Causes of Chimney Leaks?
Chimney leaks happen for a variety of reasons but the most common ones we are called out to inspect include:
Damaged or Poorly-Built Chimney Crown: If you have a masonry chimney, the top of your chimney will have a chimney crown that is often made of cement. Its purpose is to direct moisture away from the sides of the chimney. Sometimes the crown will be made with the same mortar that was used when laying the bricks of your chimney. Because mortar isn’t as strong as concrete and actually absorbs water, it begins to crack and deteriorate, which causes leaks in your chimney. - Missing or Damaged Chase Cover: Now, if you have a prefabricated fireplace, the top of your chimney will instead have a chase cover. These are built of galvanized steel and are prone to rust and corrode. But did you know one of the biggest reasons your chimney cover might be leaking is actually because it wasn’t properly installed? That’s why it is extremely important you hire a licensed and trusted chimney technician.
- Missing or Damaged Chimney Cap: A chimney cap sits directly over the top of the vent pipe or crown and covers the flue. This is the vertical duct in your chimney that carries all the smoke and chemicals from your home. If the chimney cap is missing or damaged, rain and other precipitation can flow down your chimney causing internal structural damage to the damper, flue, or firebox. As you can tell, the chimney cap plays an important role in protecting your chimney and shouldn’t be overlooked.
- Leaky Flashing: Did you know properly installed chimney flashing can last up to 30 years? The flashing is a thin metal material that acts as a waterproof seal between your chimney and roof. Continuous exposure to the elements can cause flashing to deteriorate over time. It may start to crack or even begin pulling away from the chimney. It is a simple fix, really, but one that should be done by a professional to ensure it is done correctly.
- Leaking Bricks: As previously mentioned, bricks and mortar are porous enough to absorb water when it rains. Heavily saturated bricks then begin to drip on the inside of your chimney. Thankfully, leaking bricks are a relatively easy fix as it just requires a chimney technician to come out and seal the bricks with a masonry water repellent.
Who To Call if Your Chimney Is Leaking
Now that we have discussed a few sources of chimney leaks, you’re probably wondering, “Who do I call for my repair – a roofer or a chimney technician?”
You might be more inclined to contact a roofing company. Yet, while roofers do an excellent job repairing and replacing roofs, they do not have the knowledge or experience that chimney technicians do to correctly solve your leaky chimney problem.
Does Homeowner’s Insurance Cover Chimney Leaks?
In general, damage that is caused by sudden, unexpected events that are outside of your control should be covered by your homeowner’s insurance. However, damage caused by normal wear and tear is typically not covered. The good news is typical wear and tear damage can be prevented by maintaining your chimney system! So don’t delay – let’s schedule your chimney inspection today.
Call Winston’s if You Have a Chimney Leak
The team of chimney technicians at Winston’s Chimney Services is experienced in all chimney leak issues and the repairs involved with them. We can help you minimize the amount of water damage your home sustains, and keep you leak-free for years to come.
Are you interested in scheduling an inspection? Give us a call at 703-379-5006 or schedule an appointment online. We can’t wait to hear from you soon.
