You may already be aware of this chimney damage is most commonly caused by water. If you’d like to prevent water leaks from entering your chimney, there are several preventive maintenance options. In this article, we will discuss some of the methods that can prevent water leaks, specifically chimney flashing.
Chimney Flashing
The metal flashing around a chimney provides a seal between the roof and the chimney. It is attached to the shingles of your roof and wrapped around the chimney. Customized flashings are the best way to protect this extremely vulnerable area from water leaks. Water leaks can be caused by improper flashing installation due to easy mistakes. Having two layers of chimney flashing installed by a chimney technicians Atlantic Brick & Stone ensures that your chimney will be properly protected from water. The first layer is the internal base flashing, which is covered by the second layer, the counter flashing. Neither of these layers breaks the watertight seal, so it is vital that both layers are used.
Chimney damage due to the water leakage
If the water leaks at the location of your chimney and roof, you may suffer damage to your home. Chimney water leaks of this type may rot the wood that surrounds the chimney, cause staining of ceilings and walls, and even rot the chimney itself. Metal chimney components can also be damaged by water leaks. The chimney liner and damper can be affected by rust corrosion, which can cause problems. As a result of the liner cracking, heat can spread to the combustibles in your home, allowing poisonous gases like carbon monoxide to enter. Depending on the extent of the leak, your chimney can be seriously damaged. Without proper repair, bricks and mortar can erode, causing structural damage to your chimney. Several chimneys have fallen over due to water damage.
Chimney flashing repair
Roof flashing or chimney flashing properly installed can last for up to 25 years. Your chimney’s life expectancy is determined by factors such as where you live, the size and shape of your chimney, and the materials used to construct it. It’s helpful to know what year your house was built so you can monitor the age of your chimney.
Here are some signs that it is time to repair chimney flashings:
- Leaking from the chimney’s interior or exterior
- There are sounds and signs of dripping, like puddles
- Bricks with discoloration
- Stains due to corrosion
- Stains on the interior walls, ceilings, or chimneys caused by water
- A visible gap around the flashing
It is always advisable to contact your nearest chimney services provider so that it can be inspected and repaired immediately. Unnecessary delay may cause damage to your chimney structure and it may require to rebuild completely.
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