Taking the necessary precautions to prevent water from entering your chimney will spare you the hassle of more complicated and expensive repairs in the future.
Whether from rain or melting snow, water in your chimney can create problems not easily, or cheaply, fixed. Moisture can contribute to mold growth that significantly reduces air quality. Water also can weaken the chimney as it seeps into the concrete’s porous surface, creating a crumbling structure.
But there are ways to keep your chimney dry, alleviating the issues noted above. This preventive maintenance includes:
• Filling the cracks in the mortar on the outside of your chimney. This will prevent moisture from seeping into the chimney and expanding and condensing in fluctuating temperatures. This weakens the concrete, which eventually will result in chipping and cracking, creating a hazardous situation.
• Applying a sealant to waterproof your chimney. Like filling the cracks in the mortar, a waterproofing sealant will help thwart any water from seeping into your chimney. For best results, apply the sealant to the outside of the chimney as well as the chimney’s crown and any other surrounding concrete.
• Checking and repairing any damaged or worn flashing or roofing that is allowing water into your chimney or home.
• Installing a chimney cap over your chimney’s opening to prevent water from getting in. (A chimney cap also will help keep out unwanted visitor or debris.)
If you’re not comfortable tackling any of the recommended maintenance on your own, MCP Chimney and Masonry Inc. has the knowledge and tools to do the job right and prevent water from entering your chimney and home.
Whether it’s applying a waterproof sealant, filling the cracks in your chimney’s mortar, or installing a chimney cap, we have the solutions you need to keep your home free or mold or structural damage.
Contact us today to help keep water out of your home.
