The problem with a chimney leak is as simple as 1, 2, 3.
1. It ruins your chimney.
2. It ruins your house.
3. It costs you money.
The good news is that chimney leaks are 100 percent preventable. With routine maintenance and annual inspections, your trusted chimney professional will spot a problem before it turns into a leak.
Signs You Have a Leak
Some signs are less noticeable than others. The average homeowner will overlook a chimney leak simply because the affected portion of the chimney is hidden from view. This is why it’s important to hire a certified chimney sweep to clean, inspect, and repair your chimney system.
- Sounds of dripping or visual evidence of dripping in the chimney
- Discoloration of interior or exterior masonry
- Smells of mildew or staleness
- A leak in any part of the house
Even if you don’t see signs on or in the chimney itself, a leak in another part of the house is an indication of a chimney leak. When water is allowed into the home by way of the chimney, it can run for several feet before it stops at the lowest point and forms a leak. This may be several rooms away from the chimney! If you have a leak in any part of your home, call your chimney sweep first. A contractor or handyman may repair the damage, but will not find the cause, because only a chimney professional knows where to look and diagnose the problem.
Let Billy Sweet Chimney Sweep Have a Look
At Billy Sweet, we offer chimney inspections, sweeps, and repairs year-round. You can call today, and we’ll send a technician out to diagnose your chimney problem. The first thing we’ll check is the flashing. Flashing is a collection of thin metal sheets placed along the intersection of chimney and roof to shed water away from this weak point. Oftentimes the flashing is installed incorrectly, has shifted due to weather or animal tampering, or is just worn out. The process of installing flashing is meticulous and must be done by an experienced professional. If your flashing is installed incorrectly, placed incorrectly according to the roof slant or roofing material, or if nails or seams are exposed, it will eventually leak. These types of issues could be identified during a chimney inspection, however, which is why it’s important to schedule one annually.
Other factors that may cause a chimney leak include a faulty, damaged, or missing cap or a cracked or spalling crown. At Billy Sweet Chimney Sweep we install chimney caps, repair and replace chimney crowns, and offer waterproofing services to prevent leaks.
You can schedule waterproofing services now and ensure your chimney is protected from spring showers, summer storms, and a full winter ahead. Don’t let the weather affect your chimney any longer. Schedule services today to have your leak diagnosed and repaired.
Call 617-469-4528 today.