Chimney Waterproofing: What It Is & Why It Works

More and more homeowners in the Tilton, NH, area are taking the proactive step of having their chimneys waterproofed. Fire N’ Stone performs a large number of these jobs in communities throughout Belknap County, NH, to help keep our customers’ chimneys running right and looking great.

If your chimney has never been waterproofed, now might be a good time to look into it.

What is chimney waterproofing?

It’s a spray-on, vapor-permeable coating that completely seals the exterior masonry of your chimney. It doesn’t leave a blurry sheen, and it isn’t an all-day job. While most homeowners could apply the coating with a proper sprayer, you’re better off letting a professional chimney technician handle it.

Chimney waterproofing is the best way to keep water and melting snow out of the bricks and mortar. It is, however, not a way to resolve masonry damage or prevent existing damage from worsening.

A certified chimney technician will know how to repair masonry problems before applying the sealant. They can also repair any other issues related to a chimney leak.

Dangers of a leaky chimney

Water can enter a chimney through several points, including:
– A damaged or missing chimney cap
– A cracked chimney crown
– Deteriorated sections within the masonry
When the leak is in the masonry, big trouble may lie ahead.

Even the smallest cracks in chimney bricks can allow moisture to infiltrate. The cracks enlarge over time, and when the temperature drops, moisture can freeze and expand, causing even more extensive damage. The numerous freeze-thaw cycles we have each winter in New Hampshire can eventually destroy a chimney.

Along with masonry decay, leaks through the bricks and mortar can progress to the point that they affect the chimney liner, fireplace damper, and firebox. Standing water inside a chimney can promote the growth of dangerous mold, which can spread throughout the home.

Less worrisome (but still important) to many homeowners is that a deteriorating chimney presents a poor visual at the property. It makes the whole home look uncared for.

Do you have a leaky chimney? Watch for these signs.

– White stains (efflorescence) on the exterior chimney – it means water is penetrating the bricks.
– Obvious cracks or decay in the bricks.
– Debris on the roof from crumbling chimney mortar.
– Musty odors in the attic or coming through the fireplace.
– Water stains on the walls and ceiling near the fireplace.
– Water dripping into the firebox.
If you notice any of these signs, schedule repairs right away. After the problems are resolved, your chimney can be waterproofed to keep water away from the bricks and out of any new cracks that might form.

Chimney waterproofing and repair by local experts

The certified technicians at Fire N’ Stone are standing by to help with any issues your chimney may be experiencing. We offer licensed chimney inspections and expert repair of all parts and components of your chimney and fireplace system. We waterproof chimneys to protect them and keep them looking fantastic year-round.

Learn more about chimney waterproofing or other services by giving us a call or reaching out through our contact form.