Reasons for Chimney Leaks

Boston Chimney Services & Repair

There are a few different reasons for chimney leaks. Let's take a look at a few of them now and see if we can get to the bottom of the issue. If none of these are causing the leak or you fix any that you had problems with, then it is likely not the chimney. Get an estimate today for our various chimney services.

Chimney Service Estimate

At Guaranteed Home Improvement of Massachusetts, we can fix chimney leaks. Making your home and your chimney safe for use. When you reach out, we can further discuss any of the issues you may be experiencing and look to fix any chimney leaks. And come up with a plan of action for your chimney.

Rain Coming In from the Top

When chimneys do not have covers, you can get rain to fall in straight through the top. This is a simple fix. All you need is a professional installation of a chimney chase cover. Not only will this cover stop any potential rain from falling through, but it will also keep birds, animals and debris out of the chimney too.

But probably the best reason to get a chimney cover is to prevent anyone from getting sick due to CO poisoning. When debris gets it, it may block the CO from escaping. Thus trapping it more in the home for everyone to breathe in.

Cracks in the Chimney Crown

The chimney crown is on top of every chimney and is made of cement. The very purpose of the crown is to keep rain out. However, cracks can develop over time and wear and tear allows it to deteriorate. So when these crack emerge, rain and water can seep through and drip down the chimney.

We have the ability to fix the chimney crown. But how we fix it determines on the extent of the damage. Water freezes and thaws in the cracks throughout the winter. This process can turn smaller cracks into larger ones. So if the damage is not too extensive, we can simply use crown coating materials to seal the cracks. However, for more significant chimney crown damage, we will need to remove the masonry and replace it. The entire structure of the chimney may depend on it. Don't delay on handling any repairs, because these problems can escalate pretty quickly.

Chimneys Leaking From Condensation

Gas fumes have a low temperature, but carry a lot of moisture. So, fumes can condensate on the inside of a chimney, thus soaking the bricks and keeping them wet. That is, if you do not have an chimney liner. Older chimneys may not, but you would be smart to install a new one if you are experiencing condensation inside your home from your chimney. We offer expert and affordable installations of chimney liners. These liners are important for more than just preventing condensation. They are a crucial aspect for any home's chimney.

Problems with the Chimney Flashing

In a nutshell, the chimney flashing is what keeps water from seeping into the place where the bricks come through the roof, or at least comes close to the roof. There is typically a big gap between the bricks and the roof. Due to this gap, water can pour through the hole if not properly sealed. The flashing is often a piece of aluminum that will go in between some bricks and bends on top of the shingles.

However, the chimney flashing does not last forever and needs to be replaced every so often. We can come and inspect your chimney flashing and see if it is the cause of the leak. If your chimney flashing is older, then there is a good chance the material is older. We are constantly finding innovative and new ways to improve on the chimney flashing and the materials. So your chimney will benefit from the upgrade.

Leaky Bricks & Mortar

Bricks and mortar are solid, but they also pass water. Same as with the chimney crown, the bricks and mortar are constantly freezing and thawing over the winter. Which can cause small cracks to become bigger cracks and result in some leaky bricks and mortar. Our chimney waterproofing services can do the trick! Waterproofing can be tricky, but we have the expertise to effectively fix the chimney. In many instances, the water falls to the ground and then forces its way out of the bricks and seeps into your home or into areas outside your home. Causing potential unseen damage. We have to be careful on how we waterproof the chimney as to not cause a larger problem.

Sometimes Its Not The Chimney Leaking

There are scenarios where the final leaks occurs through the chimney, but that is not the cause of the leak. It simply finds its way to the chimney and enters inside a room at the point of the chimney. One such example is a roof leak through the attic or a roof shingle. This water can travel through various parts of the home and wind up in the chimney. So this is something to look out for, because you do not want to spend countless dollars trying to fix the wrong problem.