Chimney Waterproofing
Chimneys are prone to deterioration and need regular waterproofing to keep them in good condition. Preventing damage from the elements now will save you thousands in repair costs later.
Chimney waterproofing starts with repointing the mortar joints. To do this, the chimney professionals grind down the joints and repoint them with type-N mortar.
Water Damage
Water damage is a serious concern for many homeowners in Chicago. When a chimney is leaking, it can damage the building materials behind it and cause mold, rot, or even structural issues.
This can be damaging to the structure of your home as well as causing health and safety concerns for your family.
Chimney masonry is porous, and when it rains or snows that moisture seeps into those pores. As that moisture freezes and expands, it can cause the brick to crack and deteriorate over time.
Waterproofing protects the masonry structure from moisture and prevents any further damage from occurring.
When waterproofing a chimney, it is important to clean the entire area of debris and dirt before applying the waterproofing. It is also important to repair any cracks or damage to the masonry before applying the waterproofing.
Mold
If a chimney is left unprotected, it can quickly become a breeding ground for mold. Mold can lead to a variety of health issues, from allergies and asthma to more serious respiratory infections and lung problems.
Chimney waterproofing helps prevent these issues by keeping moisture out of the structure.
Masonry is naturally porous, which means that bricks will absorb a certain amount of water each time it rains. Over time, this can start to cause major problems, from causing leaks in the roof and walls against the chimney to wicking moisture into building materials like wood framing and drywall inside the home.
Having your chimney professionally waterproofed is an inexpensive way to protect against the damage caused by rain. Before the job begins, the chimney should be thoroughly cleaned of all debris, including loose leaves, bird nests, and dirt.
A masonry brush and mortar joint rake can be used to clean the joints of the chimney. Then, the waterproofing sealant is applied with a sprayer that can be purchased at any hardware or garden store.
The contractor starts at the bottom of the chimney and works his way up, applying a second coat when necessary.
Damage to Your Home’s Foundation
Water damage to your chimney could extend all the way through it and into your home, including the foundation.
The best way to protect against this is to waterproof the structure properly when it is built, but many homeowners don’t consider their chimneys to be at risk until they see a problem.
Bricks and mortar are porous, and when it rains sleets or snows that moisture can seep into the pores and rest there until it freezes and expands.
When that happens, the pores suck up more moisture, and a cycle begins that causes all sorts of problems from leaks that speed the deterioration of your chimney to mold and framing and drywall damage inside your home.
Waterproofing your chimney should be done regularly, but you should only have it applied by a certified and licensed chimney professional who understands how to properly treat masonry.
It’s also important to make sure your chimney is clean and free of debris prior to waterproofing, because if there is soot or creosote present, the sealant won’t adhere as well.
Damage to Your Chimney
Chimneys are like rain hats for the roof of your home. Without proper protection, your chimney can easily get soaked in a storm.
Chimney caps and flashing help to keep water from entering through the top of your chimney, but water still seeps into brick walls from the sides and underneath. Water in a chimney can cause damage, odors, and structural issues.
If your chimney shows signs of water ingress, such as white areas and moss, it is time to call for waterproofing. The damage caused by moisture in a chimney can be expensive to repair and may compromise the structural integrity of your roof.
Before applying the waterproofing material, make sure your chimney is free of loose bricks, leaves, and other natural debris. A rake or wire brush should be used to clean mortar joints thoroughly.
After the chimney has been cleaned, it’s important to let the masonry fully cure before applying a water repellent.
Contact Chimney Experts Now!
Stone and Brick Masonry Group offers leading chimney waterproofing services in Illinois. So, if you are looking for a chimney expert in your area, feel free to contact Stone & Brick Masonry Group, and enjoy quick service at a very competitive rate.
