Chimneys, particularly those made from porous brick and mortar, are especially susceptible to moisture damage in humid areas. Constant exposure to rain might cause parts of your chimney to eventually succumb to wear and tear, allowing rain to seep inside. Apart from the sight of water dripping down, there are a few other signs you should know.
Signs of Chimney Damage
A dripping sound
Moisture stains on or condensation in your chimney or firebox
A musty odor stemming from mold or mildew
Visible cracks in the chimney’s masonry
Causes of Chimney Damage
If you see any of these, water may have seeped in through cracks in any of the following.
Chimney Cap – If water is dripping down, you should first check your chimney’s first line of defense against rain and debris.
Masonry – As mentioned earlier, water can easily seep into porous materials. But that’s the least of your worries; left exposed to rainwater, cracks in the masonry will eventually compromise your chimney’s structural stability.
Flashing – Flashing seals the seam between your home’s roofing system and the chimney. Natural wear and tear can damage the seal and let water seep through the gaps.
Worsening Moisture Damage
It’s important that damage to your chimney is fixed as soon as possible because, if it isn’t, moisture damage might worsen and result in the following:
Stains on your chimney’s interior and exterior
Cracks in the chimney’s flue lining
Rotting wood
Rust on your glass doors and other fire accessories
This list isn’t exhaustive, and damage to your chimneys can quickly get out of hand. Immediate repairs as well as frequent inspections and regular maintenance can prevent this from happening.
If you’re looking for a roofing contractor to conduct any of the aforementioned, hire a reputable one like Roofing Masters. In addition to roofing installation and repair services, we also offer door installations. To request an estimate, call (888) 889-7551, or fill out this form. We serve homeowners in Beltsville, MD.