Dangers of a Cracked Chimney Crown

The chimney crown isn’t something you think about often, if at all, but it’s vital for protecting your home against water damage. The crown sits on top of the chimney to prevent moisture and debris from getting in and seeping into the masonry. But, if the crown is cracked, the consequences could be worse than you might think. Here’s why a cracked chimney crown is more than just a cosmetic issue and why you must fix it as soon as possible.

First Off . . . What is a Chimney Crown?

Picture the top of your chimney — the flat part that covers everything except the opening for the smoke to escape. That’s the crown. It’s usually made of concrete or mortar, and it’s there to keep rain, snow, and other junk from getting into the chimney.

It’s sloped so water runs off the sides instead of pooling on top, and it acts like a helmet for the chimney. Without the crown, water would pour right into the bricks and mortar, and that’s where things get messy.

So, How Do Cracks Happen?

A few ways:

Weather

Rain, snow, sun, freezing temps — it all takes a toll. Over time, that concrete starts cracking from the freeze/thaw cycle.

Bad Construction

Some crowns are made with cheap materials or aren’t put together right from the beginning.

No Waterproofing

If nobody bothered to seal the crown when it was built, it’s a sitting duck for water damage.

Chimney Movement

If the chimney shifts or settles (which happens more than you’d think), it can cause the crown to crack.

Once there’s a crack — big or small — water starts seeping in. And that’s when it goes from being a cosmetic problem to something that can wreak havoc.

What’s the Big Deal?

Here’s what can happen when the crown is cracked, and you wait too long for repairs.

Water Gets In, and Wrecks Stuff

Water plus brick equals bad news. When water gets into the chimney through cracks, it eats away at the mortar joints, causes bricks to crumble, and basically destroys the chimney from the inside out.

Damage Inside the House

It’s not just the chimney that’s affected either because water doesn’t always stay in the chimney. It can leak into your ceilings and walls, causing mold, stains, wood rot—you name it. And fixing that? Not cheap.

Rust and Metal Breakdowns

A lot of chimneys have metal parts like dampers or liners. When water gets in, those parts can rust and stop working right. That messes with how your fireplace functions and can make it unsafe.

Fire Risk

Yeah, water damage can actually make a fire more likely. If the flue or chimney walls are compromised, heat and sparks can escape into the home’s framing, and that’s a huge safety risk.

Critters

Cracks and gaps are open doors for squirrels, birds, raccoons, and anything else that can squeeze in. Once inside, they can build nests, block the chimney, and even get into your house.

What Should You Do?

If you see bricks falling off the chimney, notice water stains around the fireplace, or see cracks at the top, it’s time to call a pro. A professional chimney sweeper can check it out, patch small cracks, or replace the crown if it’s bused.

Also, don’t skip chimney inspections. The National Fire Protection Association says, “Chimneys, fireplaces, and vents shall be inspected at least once a year for soundness, freedom from deposits, and correct clearances.”

It’s best to get it inspected in the summer or fall so the chimney is ready to go once winter arrives. And, if the chimney and crown aren’t waterproofed, now’s a good time to do it. Waterproofing is inexpensive and can save you tons of money fixing interior and exterior damage.

A cracked chimney crown might not seem like a big deal, but it absolutely is. It’s the first line of defense for your chimney and, by extension, your house. Letting cracks go too long could cost you big time.

Call Fire N’ Stone

If you can’t remember the last time you had a chimney inspection, call Fire N’ Stone today. We’ve been a trusted partner in central New Hampshire since 2009. Whether it’s crown repair, chimney cleaning, repairs, or what have you, you can count on our expertise for high-quality work every time. Contact us today.