The Benefits of Professional Chimney Leak Repair

Have you ever experienced a leaky chimney? If you have, then you know the problem is not just a simple drip-drip situation. It's a serious thing that requires attention – quickly. Here is everything you need to know about chimney leak repair and why you need to leave it to the pros.

What Causes Chimney Leaks

Chimneys can leak for different reasons, but usually stems from the gradual deterioration of the structure and function of the chimney.

Chimney crown breakdown 

One of the most common causes of leaks is the breaking down of the chimney crown. The crown, as its name suggests, is the topmost component of your chimney. Its job is to deflect water away from the chimney. Over time, harsh elements and weather can cause the deterioration of the structure of the crown. This leads to tiny cracks, which allow water to seep in.

Flashing 

This is the thin metal strip installed between the chimney and the roof to create a water-resistant barrier. Over time, this metal strip gets corroded and damaged, which will then compromise the seal. This will allow water to penetrate the junction between the chimney and the roof, causing leaks.

Masonry damage 

Chimneys are often made up of porous materials (bricks and mortar). These materials don't deflect water; rather, they absorb water, especially if they are not properly sealed. Moreover, the sealant can also deteriorate over time from moisture, freeze-thaw cycles, weather, and just normal wear and tear. This can lead to cracks, spalling, and deterioration of the structure of the chimney (mortar joints).

Weather 

During freeze-thaw cycles (during cold seasons), the water trapped within the porous bricks or mortar expands when it freezes. This can further cause deterioration, which, again, leads to cracks.    

Missing or damaged chimney cap 

This leaves the chimney vulnerable to water (rain and snow), and structural problems like setting and shifting the chimney can create further gaps, allowing more water to get in.  

Why do you need to leave it to the pros

Chimney leaks are like ninjas; they arrive in secret, and by the time you notice them, they have already caused a significant amount of damage. Their subtle nature is what makes them dangerous; they can undermine the structural integrity of the chimney and surrounding areas. Damage caused ranges from mold and mildew problems in your attic walls to rotting wood and even compromised structure of not just your chimney but your house as well. And this is why you need the keen eye of the pros – to detect this elusive threat early, often during routine inspections, long before you notice any visible signs or symptoms.

Hard-to-beat expertise 

Professional chimney leak repair experts have the skills and experience to quickly find and fix the problem in the best way possible. This means you get solutions without the guesswork.

Tools of the trade 

Chimneys may seem straightforward in their function, but their anatomy is quite complex. This means repairs aren't only a patch job; it's a fix that lasts. Thus, aside from the expertise and skills, you need the right tools to do the right repairs. Professional chimney leak repair companies have invested in the tools they need for their trade. They have the right equipment and materials to quickly, efficiently, and safely conduct the necessary repairs.

Safety first

As said earlier, chimneys are quite complex, and messing around with them can be extremely risky. Many things can go wrong, like accidents from working up high or damaging your chimney and house if the repair isn't done correctly. The pros, however, know how to navigate around these dangers. They follow not just their company's safety protocols but also industry-set guidelines on how to deliver efficient and safe chimney repairs.

Insurance coverage

Since chimney repair can be a dangerous task, repair companies are required to provide their staff with private insurance to cover them while on the job. Also, good chimney repair companies have insurance to cover any accidental damage to your house while they work. This means if an accident happens during their repair—such as damage to your roof, ceilings, or any part of your property—the company's insurance should cover the cost of repairs for these damages.

More cost-efficient

Going the DIY route may seem cheaper at first glance, but this can cause more harm than good if you don't have the expertise, tools, and safety equipment necessary for the job. The cost for professional repairs may seem higher upfront, but it will actually save you more money in the long run from repeat fixes and unnecessary damage during your DIY.

Save you time

There is a good chance you already have more than enough things to worry about without adding the "fix the chimney leak", so why add it to your to-do list? Hiring professionals lets you spend your time and energy on other important tasks.

Protect the value of your home.

If you're like most people, your home is likely your biggest asset and investment. Thus, it goes without saying that you need to keep it in tip-top shape. And since chimneys are one of the most sought-after house features, you need to take good care of yours. A good chimney can help boost the value of your home. Thus, hiring professionals for repairs to your chimney is always a win-win.

When to call the pros?

Prevention is always better than cure; this is why regular inspection and maintenance work is always a good idea. This will help you spot minor issues before they become serious problems. Realistically, however, many people don't get their chimneys checked regularly. If that seems familiar to you, then you have to take it upon yourself to spot the signs and symptoms of chimney leaks.

Look for signs of water stains on the ceiling close to your chimney. A damp smell near your fireplace that won't seem to go away is also a clear sign of chimney damage. These things point to the growth of mold and mildew, which are tell-tale signs of water damage. Calling the pros at the first hint of these symptoms is your best course of action. Ignoring these signs or delaying the repair can only lead to more serious problems, not just for your chimney but for the structural integrity of your house as well.