Signs of a Leaky Chimney
Most of the U.S. is getting more rain for this time of year than ever before. In much of the Midwest, farmers aren’t able to seed their cropland, and still, the rain just keeps on coming. In Florida, we are four weeks into Hurricane Season, and there are already five hurricanes projected to hit us this season.
The rain and wind that come with these storms mean we need to protect our chimneys from water damage. It also means you should schedule preventative services with a chimney professional or schedule repairs for damages that have already occurred. At Hudson Chimney, we are the professionals with the knowledge and experience to take care of all your leaky chimney needs!
The Problem with Chimney Leaks
Water is the worst thing that can happen to a masonry chimney. The reason water can cause so much damage is because of the materials which make up the masonry. The masonry is porous in nature, and it is made of various materials that are highly affected by moisture. A chimney system may be well made, but even a small amount of water can destroy it from the inside out.
When water is allowed into the chimney system, either by the top (at the cap or crown) or through the sides (flashing and masonry), you can guess there is likely damage. Since most of the chimney system is not readily visible, the leak may take time to notice and damage might occur before anything can be done about it. The best way to prevent water damage is to prevent chimney leaks, and our team is here to help.
Signs of a Chimney Leak
Leaks often go unnoticed because much of the leak occurs behind the scenes, and homeowners aren’t sure what to look. In order to catch a leak early, it’s important to know what to look for, and here are some of the signs of a leaky chimney.
- Stains on masonry interior and exterior
- Dripping sounds and visible water in the chimney
- Odors of mildew and mold
- A high amount of moisture in the home
- Cracks and deterioration in masonry
- Leaks in other parts of the home
When you experience a leak, it can be nerve-racking. When you call in the right professional to deal with it, it won’t be a big deal. Many homeowners tend to call a general contractor for leaks, assuming it’s a roof or plumbing problem. The best option for homeowners with chimneys, however, is to call the chimney professionals. We will not only assess the leak, but we will also correct it at the source. We install new caps and flashing, repair crowns and masonry, and we also waterproof chimneys for good measure. Our waterproofing services will protect the masonry from water intrusion for ten years!
Are you a homeowner in Northeast Florida, and you aren’t sure if your chimney system is properly protected against water leaks? Call Hudson Chimney today at 904-282-4159. Our team will take care of your chimney!