A chimney leak occurs when water enters through the sides of a chimney and causes damage inside the home. There may be different reasons for a chimney to leak. Irrespective of the type or cause, the leak should not be ignored as it may cause much more damage to the structure of the building. The leak must be fixed on time; otherwise, it can damage the building structure.
Chimney leaks should be addressed by a professional roofer like WABO Roofing. We have the experience, knowledge, and expertise to fix such issues on the roof. Let us understand more about chimney leaks and how we handle them professionally.
What are the Causes of Chimney Leak?
Chimney leaks can pose significant risks to the integrity of the structure and safety of your home. Learning the common causes of chimney leaks is important for homeowners to identify and address potential issues promptly. Some of the causes have been mentioned below:
Damaged flashing
Flashing is the metal strips or sheets installed around chimneys, skylights, and roof valleys to prevent water penetration. If flashing gets damaged or is improperly installed, then water can seep into the gaps between the chimney and the roof and cause leaks.
Deteriorated mortar joints
Mortar joints between chimney bricks or stones can deteriorate over time due to exposure to weather elements and temperature changes. When mortar joints degrade, they create openings where water can infiltrate the chimney structure and cause the roof to leak.
Cracked chimney crowns
Chimney crown is the concrete or mortar layer at the top of the chimney that protects it from water intrusion. Cracks in the chimney crown can develop due to freeze-thaw cycles, age, or poor construction. These cracks allow water to enter the chimney and cause leaks and potential structural damage to the building.
Porous chimney materials
Chimney bricks, stones, or masonry materials can become porous over time, especially if they are not properly sealed or maintained. Porous materials absorb water like a sponge, which causes water to penetrate through the chimney structure and leak into the home.
What are the Damages Caused by Chimney Leak?
Chimney leaks can be disastrous, and some of the damages can be as follows:
Water damage to interior walls and ceilings
Water infiltration from a chimney leak can result in staining, peeling paint, and watermarks on interior walls and ceilings. With time, prolonged exposure to moisture can weaken the structural integrity of these surfaces and cause cracks, warping, and deterioration.
Mould and mildew growth
Excess moisture from chimney leaks develops an ideal environment for mould and mildew to thrive. Mould growth not only compromises indoor air quality but also poses health risks to those staying in the house.
Rotting of wooden structures
Water seepage into wooden structures like attic rafters, joists, and roof decking can lead to wood rot. Rotting wood weakens the structural integrity of the roof and can eventually cause sagging, leaks, and even collapse if left untreated.
Damage to insulation and drywall
Moisture infiltration can saturate insulation materials and drywall and cause them to lose effectiveness and deteriorate. Damaged insulation minimzes energy efficiency and can lead to increased heating and cooling costs. On the other hand, water-damaged drywall may require replacement to prevent mould growth and structural issues.
Structural damage to the chimney and surrounding areas
Constant exposure to rain and water can cause structural damage to the chimney, including deterioration of mortar joints, cracking of bricks or stones, and damage to the chimney crown. Additionally, adjacent roof materials and flashing may also be compromised, which may require expensive repairs to prevent further water intrusion.
Decreased energy efficiency
Water leaks can compromise the insulation properties of the roof and walls, leading to heat dissipation during winter and heat gain during the summer time. This decreased energy efficiency can result in higher utility bills as the HVAC system works harder to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature.
Potential fire hazard due to compromised chimney structure – A compromised chimney structure from water damage may pose a fire hazard. Cracks, gaps, or weakened materials can allow heat and sparks from the fireplace or heating appliance to escape into explosive areas of the home. This increases the risk of a chimney fire. Regular chimney inspections and repairs are essential to mitigate this risk and ensure safe operation.
Calling a Professional
It is vital to call a professional roofing contractor like WABO Roofing to assess and repair chimney leaks promptly. We have the expertise, experience, and necessary tools to recognize the root cause of the leak and provide you with effective repairs to prevent further damage.
Professional Repair Process
We have a team of experts who handle chimney leaks effectively. Here is a quick guide on what we do:
Inspection
We conduct a detailed and careful inspection of the chimney to assess the extent of damage and identify the cause of the leak.
Repair or Replacement of Flashing
Damaged or deteriorated flashing will be repaired or replaced to ensure a watertight seal around the chimney.
Repointing Mortar Joints
Any deteriorated mortar joints will be repointed to prevent water infiltration.
Repairing Chimney Crown
Cracked or damaged chimney crowns will be repaired or replaced to prevent water from seeping into the chimney structure.
Waterproofing
The chimney may be treated with a waterproofing sealant to provide an additional layer of protection against moisture penetration.
Interior Repairs
Any interior water damage like mould removal, drywall repair, or insulation replacement will be addressed by our team to restore the integrity of your home.
Preventive Maintenance
We may recommend preventive maintenance measures, such as regular inspections and chimney cleaning, to prevent future leaks and prolong the chimney’s lifespan.
Experts for All Types of Roof Repair
At WABO Roofing, we understand the significance of promptly addressing chimney leaks to prevent further damage to your home. Our team of skilled professionals provides efficient and effective chimney leak repairs to protect your home and ensure your peace of mind. Besides addressing chimney leaks, we also offer services for all types of roofing jobs. Call us to learn more about our services.
