Schedule a Professional Chimney Waterproofing Service With Hudson Chimney
If you have a traditional brick masonry chimney, one of the most important things to be aware of and protect against is water damage. Because both brick and mortar are porous materials, ensuring your structure has been properly prepared to withstand water contact is crucial. According to the Brick Industry Association, chimneys require special attention and maintenance to prevent costly property damage caused by water penetration. Second only to chimney sweeping, (which is paramount for chimney safety), waterproofing your chimney is the best way to add years to it and ensure that everything remains in working order.
Most importantly, waterproofing will almost certainly prevent your chimney from leaking (if, however, you think your chimney may already be leaking, check out our page about chimney leaks and the repairs we offer). Note our use of the word “prevent:” waterproofing your chimney is a fully preventive measure, and so it often falls to the bottom of the priority list. However, this is one of the most important steps you can take to safeguard your home from the elements. Remember, prevention is a much cheaper alternative to the often costly repairs that water damage requires.
To learn more about the importance of waterproofing brick chimneys or to schedule your service, get in touch with someone from the Hudson Chimney team today! You can reach us online, by filling out this appointment request form, or give us a call at 904-282-4159.
Why Does My Chimney Need To Be Waterproofed?
Of all the potential causes for chimney damage and destruction, water is public enemy number one. And its not even just rain that we’re protecting against, but humidity as well. Sly and persistent, moisture has the power to penetrate just about anything, leading to a whole host of dangers and damage that require time-consuming, expensive repairs. By coating your chimney with a breathable sealant, you not only allow the structure to breathe properly, you’re also preventing water from being absorbed by the materials.
Just because brick is known for being strong and durable does not mean that it is indestructible. In fact, bricks can hold up to a pound and a half of water each. This means that a chimney built for a standard one to two story house could end up supporting roughly 1000 pounds in water weight. Considering how much rain and humidity we experience here in Florida, waterproofing your chimney is not something you should take lightly.
What Are the Best Chimney Waterproofing Products?
When waterproofing, Hudson Chimney uses ChimneySaver’s Water Repellent, a chimney brick sealer that will keep your chimney from leaking. The first product developed specifically for chimneys, Water Repellent has been on the market for nearly 20 years. Proven to reduce water penetration by 99.9% through ASTM tests conducted at the University of Wyoming, this product is also environmentally friendly and 100% vapor-permeable. This is what allows water vapors the ability to pass through the bricks when the chimney is in use – preventing the bricks from deteriorating at a faster rate as well as ensuring that fumes and smoke don’t remain trapped in your home.
The caveat? Because of the high, professional grade and combination of materials found in this repellent, it is only available to chimney professionals. However, like every other chimney service, it is always recommended to work with experts in the field. Because of their extensive knowledge and industry experience, when a professional chimney tech does a waterproofing service, they can also keep an eye out for other potential problem areas. For example, in addition to using a water-repellent product, a Hudson Chimney professional will check your cap and crown for defects, deterioration, or cracks. Damage to these areas, as well as to the chimney flashing, can often be the source of leaks. If you’re worried about chimney leaks, get in touch with us today! Fill out this appointment request form, or give us a call at 904-282-4159.
Looking for Chimney Waterproofing Near Jacksonville, FL? Call Hudson Chimney Today!
Before having your chimney waterproofed, see to it that your masonry is in good shape. If it’s not, Hudson Chimney can also be counted on to do masonry repair, tuckpointing, and firebox repair and rebuilding. Read more about chimney leaks, and contact us at 904-282-4159 if you’re interested in having your chimney waterproofed. Remember, prevention is easier and cheaper than repair and damage-reversal!
Be sure you have a chimney cap in good condition on your chimney to avoid problems with unwanted water, live critters, and other debris. Hudson Chimney can help with all chimney leak issues.