Chimney Waterproofing
The idea that a masonry chimney structure is totally waterproof is, unfortunately, an all-too-commonly-believed myth. Brick and mortar are great, durable building materials! However, they’re also porous. This can be a beneficial and not-so-beneficial quality when it comes to chimney structures.
The porous nature helps the chimney to function better, allowing the masonry to breathe so that moisture and gases in the chimney can pass through and vent. On the other hand, water can also make its way into the brick and mortar, and into your home. Consequently, over time, this can result in significant damage!
Bricks and mortar readily absorb water, but they release that water much more slowly. So throughout years of exposure to rain, sleet and snow, water can wash away elements of the mortar and weaken it. Damp brick and mortar will also allow mold, moss, and other vegetation to grow on the structure. This allows their tiny root systems to tear at the mortar joints. During the colder months, water that has penetrated the masonry can freeze and expand, causing cracks to widen and brick surfaces to spall (flake, or chip). Eventually, those widening cracks can lead to structural instability or catch seeds for larger vegetation and thicker root systems. The bottom line: if left unattended, small problems in a chimney will almost certainly become large problems!
The weather in Upstate South Carolina can be hard on homes. Therefore, it’s not uncommon to see visible water damage on all kinds of masonry structures after just a few years. Also, since chimneys are virtually unprotected from the elements, they are prime targets for water damage.
Proper construction and maintenance are key to helping masonry structures stand up to water’s constant attacks. In addition, applying a waterproofing sealant can protect your chimney even further, eliminating water penetration while still allowing the masonry to breathe.
Chim Cheree uses ChimneySaver products to waterproof masonry chimneys. We’ve found ChimneySaver products to be highly effective, and well worth the investment. They are proven to help extend the life of your chimney and keep frustrating leaks from springing up.
If you’d like to know more about preventative waterproofing methods for your masonry chimney, call Chim Cheree, The Chimney Specialists at 864-895-4204, or use our online scheduling form!
There could be several possible solutions for a leaky chimney. No matter how well your masonry is waterproofed, if your crown, cap, or flashing are damaged or improperly installed, you can expect water intrusion. Don’t worry! You can always count on our technicians to evaluate all possible water penetration areas and provide waterproofing services you can count on. In fact, we provide a 10 year guarantee with all of our waterproofing services! Our years of experience will help us help you with every service you might need to fix your chimney problems.
