Every time we have a big rainstorm in the Northern VA, Washington, DC, and Maryland area we ready ourselves for the phone calls we know we’ll get here at Winston’s Chimney Service. There will be panic and frustration because people…
- …start hearing rain in their fireboxes
- …look up and see water stains forming on the ceiling or the walls around their fireplaces
- …spot streams of water coming down the walls next to the fireplace or on the mantel
- …and more
And all of these problems cause “chimney leak repair near me” to tune up in search engines all throughout the Northern VA area.
Our experts are here to address a common and frustrating question many homeowners face: Why does my chimney leak when it rains?
If you’ve been dealing with annoying leak-related problems for a while, you might already have some serious damage to your chimney and venting system. But, before we get into that, we’d like to help you understand the potential causes behind these leaks, why they can be so troublesome, and how our team can assist you in tackling this issue.
Troublesome Causes of Chimney Leaks
There are several reasons why your chimney might leak during a rainstorm, and each can cause a range of problems for your home.
✔️ Cracked or Damaged Chimney Crown
A cracked or damaged chimney crown can allow rainwater to seep into your chimney, leading to leaks, water damage, and potential structural issues. It can also encourage water to flow down the outside sides of the chimney, rather than be pushed out and away. And if left unaddressed, these cracks can worsen, causing even more significant problems down the road.
✔️ Faulty or Deteriorated Flashing
When your chimney flashing is damaged or deteriorated, it allows water to infiltrate the gap between your chimney and roof, potentially causing leaks, wood rot, and mold growth in your home. Furthermore, damaged flashing can lead to more extensive roof damage, putting the integrity of your entire home at risk.
✔️ Missing or Damaged Chimney Cap
Without a properly functioning chimney cap, your chimney is left exposed to rain, debris, and small animal/bird entry. Not only can this cause leaks, but it also creates the perfect environment for nesting materials and unwanted debris to build up – which can then result in dangerous chimney blockages.
✔️ Porous Masonry Over Time
Your chimney’s masonry can become porous due to weather exposure, allowing water to seep through and cause leaks. This can lead to more extensive water damage, weaken your chimney’s structure, and even contribute to the deterioration of your home’s foundation.
✔️ Condensation
When warm air from your fireplace meets the cold surface of your chimney, condensation can form and create leaks. If left unaddressed, this excess moisture can cause rust, corrosion, and other damage to your chimney, reducing its lifespan and effectiveness.
How Can Winston’s Chimney Service Tackle Chimney Leaks?
Now that you understand the potential causes of your chimney leak and why they’re so problematic, you might be wondering how the team at Winston’s Chimney Service can help. Well, we’re glad you asked! We offer a range of services to address these issues, including:
- Chimney Inspections & Repairs: Our Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) certified chimney technicians can thoroughly inspect your chimney to identify the source of your leak, then recommend the appropriate repair solution. We can tackle cracked crowns, replace damaged flashing, install new chimney caps, and more – ensuring your chimney is leak-free and in excellent condition for the long haul.
- Chimney Waterproofing: To protect your chimney from leaks caused by porous masonry, we offer professional waterproofing services. Our team will apply a high-quality waterproof sealant to your chimney’s exterior surface, preventing water from seeping through the bricks and mortar and averting potential damage to your home.
- Chimney Liner Installation: If condensation is causing your chimney leaks, we can help by installing a chimney liner. A liner creates a barrier between the warm air from your fireplace and the cold surface of your chimney, reducing the likelihood of condensation forming and triggering any associated damage.
- Regular Maintenance: At Winston’s Chimney Service, we understand the importance of regular maintenance to keep your chimney in top shape and prevent leaks. We offer annual inspections and chimney sweeping services to ensure your chimney remains in excellent condition and functions safely and efficiently for the long haul.
Stay On Top of Chimney Care – Work With Us
By staying on top of maintenance, you can avoid the aggravation and expense of dealing with chimney leaks and the problems they can cause. And, trust us…after over 40 years of seeing the damage water can cause to a chimney and venting system, we know how many problems a leaky chimney can cause.
If you’re struggling with a leaky chimney, don’t hesitate to turn to the team at Winston’s Chimney Service. Give us a call at 703-379-5006 or book online, and we’ll be in touch.
We’re here to help you identify the source of the leak, provide expert repair solutions, and ensure your chimney remains in great shape, so you can enjoy the warmth and comfort of your fireplace without the worry of leaks. Thanks for trusting us.
