Is Your Chimney Crown Cracked Or Damaged?

Your chimney crown protects your chimney and masonry from debris and moisture damage. If your chimney crown is cracked or damaged it can allow water to soak into the chimney’s masonry and over time the damage can escalate. Let’s talk about how important it is to have a properly built chimney crown, spotting signs of chimney leaks or other damage, and solutions to help repair a cracked or damaged chimney crown.

The Importance of a Proper Chimney Crown

Water is your chimneys number one enemy and several of its components are specifically designed to prevent moisture damage. Your chimney crowns job is to protect the opening at the top of your chimney and guide water away. A properly built chimney crown should have a slope and extend slightly out past the masonry in order to form a shelf that guides the water away from your brick and mortar. If your crown is not built correctly, it can allow water to pool and drip leading to further damage in the crown and eventually damaging the rest of the structure as well.

Signs of a Cracked or Damaged Crown

The best way to keep your chimney crown in check is by scheduling regular annual chimney inspections. During a chimney inspection a professional chimney technician will be able to access the crown along with the rest of your chimneys components and identify any damage that needs to be addressed.

Common signs of a cracked or damaged chimney crown are often similar to the signs of chimney leaks. Look out for a rusted firebox or damper, broken flue tiles, water damage in the areas around your chimney, and deteriorating bricks and mortar joints. These may not always be a guaranteed sign of a damaged crown; however they may be a very likely indicator and should be addressed by a professional inspection.

Fixing a Damaged Chimney Crown

The repairs required to fix a damaged or cracked chimney crown will depend on the extent and the source of the damage present. More severe damage may require a crown repair or rebuild, whereas minor damage can often be solved with waterproofing solutions. If you suspect crown damage, or any other kind of chimney or fireplace troubles, schedule an inspection as soon as possible.

Fire N Stone Can Repair Your Chimney

For crown repairs, masonry repairs, chimney inspections, chimney cleanings and more call Fire N Stone today at (603) 293-4040 or contact us online.

We provide timely service, excellent customer care and top-notch repairs.