Leaky chimneys are among the most common – and potentially expensive – chimney troubles that face homeowners throughout the greater Louisville, KY, and northern Indiana regions. This is because leaks are progressive and can cause extensive damage fairly quickly.
Since 2007, our certified chimney inspectors have been saving our customers’ chimneys and keeping them running right. Here’s how a specialized chimney inspection can help you.
What Do We Look For During A Leaky Chimney Inspection?
When you call us and tell us your chimney is leaking, our first job is to find out why. A leaky chimney inspection includes a close look at all readily accessible areas of your chimney that could be allowing water to infiltrate. We also perform a video scan of the interior areas of the chimney system.
Common causes of chimney leaks include:
- Damaged bricks and crumbling mortar
- Damaged roofing materials near the chimney
- Warped, rusted or unseated chimney flashing
- A missing or damaged chimney cap or flue cover
- Damage to the walls of the chimney chase
- Cracks in the chimney liner that allow combustion moisture to escape
If ignored, intruding water can cause widespread damage to many parts of a chimney and fireplace system. Our licensed chimney inspectors know what to look for and what’s required to end the leak.
Leaky Chimney Repair
Repairing a leaky chimney can include a range of projects:
- Brick replacement
- Tuckpointing to replace missing mortar
- Repair or installation of a chimney cap or chimney chase top
- Repair or rebuilding of the concrete chimney crown
- Repair or installation of chimney flashing
- Chimney liner repair or relining
- Fireplace damper repair or replacement
- Firebox repair
After repairs, we recommend having us apply a strong, protective water sealant to the masonry and chimney crown. This will help to prevent future leaks in these areas.
Spotting a Chimney Leak
Leaky chimneys usually come with clues. Here are seven of the most common clues to watch for.
- Cracked, crumbling or missing bricks
- Deteriorated mortar joints
- Efflorescence (white stains) on the exterior chimney
- Musty, moldy odors
- Water in the firebox
- Damp patches on the walls and ceiling in the fireplace area
- Squeaky, rusty fireplace damper
Free Leaky Chimney Estimates
A leaky chimney inspection is the first step toward resolving a leak and preventing further water damage to your chimney and home.
We provide free estimates for leaky chimney service so you can know what’s happening, how we’re going to fix it, and what it will cost. If you notice any of the above signs of a chimney leak, give us a call right away. You can also get in touch by using our contact form.
Family-owned and family-operated, American Chimney & Fireplace serves Louisville, KY, Prospect, KY, Shelbyville, KY, Jeffersonville, IN, Taylorsville, KY, Hillview, KY, Shepherdsville, KY, and other local communities.
