Preventing Chimney Damage with Professional Waterproofing

When most people think of chimney damage, the first thing that comes to mind is fire. While a chimney fire can wreak havoc on your heating system and home, water is the number one cause of chimney damage. Over time, rain, snow, and ice penetrate chimney masonry, leading to brick and mortar spalling, cracks in the chimney flue liner, and interior damage, including wall stains and mold growth. The most effective way to prevent water damage is to have your chimney professionally waterproofed.

Chimney Damage in New England

Due to the winter freeze-thaw cycle, untreated chimneys in New England are particularly vulnerable. “Water gets into small cracks and then freezes, expands, and breaks the chimney apart from the inside out,” explains Admiralty Chimney Owner John Butler, a CCP-Certified Master Chimney Technician. Taking proactive steps now can save you from costly repairs in the future.

The Importance of Professional Chimney Waterproofing

Masonry is porous, making it susceptible to water intrusion. A professional waterproofing acts as a barrier, preventing your chimney’s masonry from absorbing water, while allowing it to breathe. For this reason, the CCP-certified chimney professionals at Admiralty Chimney strongly recommend that all homeowners have their chimneys professionally waterproofed.

Before You Waterproof Your Chimney

Before waterproofing your chimney, our CCP-certified chimney professionals will assess its masonry for any existing damage or deterioration. Once any needed repairs are completed, we will apply the waterproofing.

Our waterproofing solution is 100% vapor-permeable, which means it won’t trap any water vapors that could pass through the bricks. This ensures that your chimney continues to safely “breathe out” the gases produced by your fireplace.

Why DIY Chimney Waterproofing Isn’t Recommended

DIY chimney waterproofing can be risky because if it is improperly applied or the wrong sealant is used, it could lead to further masonry damage and compromise your safety. 

Climbing onto a roof to waterproof a chimney also poses serious safety risks, especially on steep or uneven surfaces. Without the proper fall protection or equipment, one wrong step can lead to serious injuries or death. This is one home maintenance task that's best left to the professionals.

Is Chimney Waterproofing Worth the Money?

When it comes to waterproofing your chimney, Benjamin Franklin’s expression, “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure,” applies.  Having your chimney professionally waterproofed is a wise investment compared to shelling out several thousand dollars on masonry repairs and restorations caused by water damage. 

Chimney Waterproofing in Southern NH and Northern Massachusetts

Don’t let water destroy your chimney’s masonry. Contact our CCP-certified professionals today to schedule a waterproofing service. 

About Admiralty Chimney

Admiralty Chimney is an award-winning, locally owned chimney cleaning and repair company serving homeowners throughout southern New Hampshire and northern Massachusetts. Contact us today to learn more.