For the Best Chimney Waterproofing & Flashing Repair Services in Town, Choose Mason’s Chimney Service
Today we have a variety of ways to protect our masonry chimneys that weren’t available when some of our area’s beautiful, historic homes were built. Water is a chimney’s biggest threat and will take a toll on even the best-built chimneys over time. If masonry soaks up water, it can wear out mortar joints and cause the brick to deteriorate or spall (chip and flake). Adding a waterproofing sealant can help protect your masonry from encroaching water and considerably increase its service life.
For expert waterproofing services, reach out to Mason’s Chimney Service. Call us now at 800-559-6276 or click here to book an appointment online.
How Can Water Damage My Chimney?
Water is your chimney’s number one enemy. It may sound like an overstatement, but it’s true. Water can devastate your chimney system and leave you with a long list of repairs that are expensive to fix. How exactly can water harm your chimney? Here are a few examples:
- Damage to the masonry. Bricks and mortar are porous, meaning they absorb water. Without a water repellent, the masonry will soak up moisture which can lead to chipping brick and gaps in the mortar.
- The liner deteriorates. If you have a clay tile liner, it can crack and deteriorate when exposed to moisture. Cracks in the liner may not be large and clearly visible, but they’re still a means for toxins and gases to leak into your home.
- Rusting on metals. Parts like the damper and firebox are susceptible to rusting if they come into repeated contact with water. Rust weakens these parts and can render them unusable.
- Hazardous mold growth. Mold and mildew can release dangerous spores into the air that are harmful when breathed in, and a damp chimney is the ideal breeding ground for mold and mildew growth.
How Can a Water Repellent Protect My Chimney Crown?
Since our inception in 1955, Mason’s Chimney Service has put a lot of effort into finding and using the best products in the business. For waterproofing, we use Crown Seal & Crown Coat, which have stood the test of time. These products are highly effective at keeping water from seeping into the masonry. Since this sealant is vapor-permeable, it still allows the brick-and-mortar to release gases and particles properly.
The chimney crown is an important barrier against water. We can also use CrownGuard to seal fractures and cracks and provide a permanent, flexible, 100% waterproof membrane for the crown. This mildew-resistant and UV-resistant product effectively protects your whole chimney system against water damage and chimney leaks.
What Is Flashing?
The area where your roof meets the base of your chimney is especially vulnerable to water damage. There isn’t proper drainage in this area so water will pool and sit until it evaporates or is absorbed by the chimney or roof which can lead to damage. This is where chimney flashing comes to the rescue.
Flashing plays an important role in protecting your chimney system, and it can also double as a really beautiful feature that boosts your home’s curb appeal. Flashing – usually made out of lead, copper, or sheet metal – is installed around the chimney where it meets the roofline. It is applied in two steps: step flashing – where pieces that are L-shaped are integrated with your roof shingles that bend and angle the water away from your roof. The second step is counter flashing – which overlaps the step flashing for another layer of protection.
That design forms a solid barrier against water and brings a bright visual pop against the brick and shingle. Copper flashing in particular develops a colorful patina that many homeowners love.
Trust Mason’s Chimney Service for Flashing Repair Services
Flashing is exposed to the elements because of its location. It takes a beating from rain, snow, wind, or curious animals all year long. Eventually, it can start to show signs of damage. This can cause leaks that lead to damage in your chimney, roof, and even ceilings and interior walls.
Keep in mind that flashing should always be custom-designed for your specific chimney, so flashing repair needs to be done by experienced professionals. If your flashing has sustained any damage, call Mason’s Chimney Service – we’ll do the right repairs for your chimney.
Keep Your Chimney Safe From Water Intrusion
Do you need flashing work? Are you interested in a waterproofing sealant? Get in touch with Mason’s Chimney Service – our certified technicians are ready to get to work protecting your chimney. Click here to schedule an appointment or give us a call at 800-559-6276. We’re here to help!
You’ll find that we value education for our workers and our customers. There’s a lot to know about this and all our masonry repairs and restorations.