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What Is A Leaky Chimney? 

As winter storms come to a halt, there may be concerns of damage to your chimney. A leaky chimney is a main concern at this time of the year. Annual chimney sweep and inspection will help you determine if there is concern for your chimney leaking. Summer will be here before you know it. Summer storms can be just as brutal on your chimney as winter ones. Follow the National Fire Protection Association’s advice on getting an annual inspection. You may find yourself saving a substantial amount of money on repairs that you can stop early on. Not only will an inspection help to identify potential leaks, but it will also alert you to any fire hazards.

There are many substantial reasons that you may have a leaky chimney. Here are a few.

Reliable Leaky chimney inspections and repairs in Robbinsville NJCauses of a Leaky Chimney:

  • Cracked chimney crown. The crown is a cement slab that sits on top of the chimney’s mortar and masonry. It protects the chimney from water damage. If there is a crack in the crown, water will seep into the chimney, causing water damage. 
  • Leaking from a warped flashing. The flashing creates a watertight seal between the roof and the chimney. The flashing must be secure without warping to protect the roof and chimney from water damage. 
  • No Chimney Cap. The cap sits on top of the chimney. Its main job is to keep water and debris from entering the chimney. If you do not have a cap, all the snow and water will run down into your chimney. This will cause a wet firebox and rusty accessories, including the damper.
  • Cracks in mortar and bricks. You may find missing bricks or cracks in the mortar or bricks. Water will seep into these areas. During the winter, the freeze and thaw effect comes into play. The water freezes, expanding the crack and causing leaks. 

Common Signs That You Have A Chimney Leak:

  • Water in the firebox.
  • Musty odors, either coming from the attic or the firebox.
  • Staining or dampness at the ceiling around the chimney.
  • Visible rust. The damper won’t open or close completely.
  • Efflorescence, white staining on the bricks of the exterior of the chimney.

If you notice any of the above, it is time to contact Mercer County Chimney Specialists for an inspection. Our professionals will join you on the inspection and discuss anything we find. We will give you suggestions as to what can be done to keep your chimney, fireplace, and home dry.

Annual chimney sweep and inspections help prevent Leaky Chimneys in Ewing NJ

We are a Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) Certified and a member of the National Chimney Sweep Guild (NCSG). At Mercer County we are proud to be fully licensed, insured, and have trained chimney technicians! We can handle chimney sweeping, cleaning, and tough chimney problems. No job is too hard,  including tuckpointing, chimney construction, chimney venting, chimney pipe, chimney crown repair, chimney cap installation, chimney chase cover, chimney liner replacement or repair, leaky chimney repairs, fireplace restorations, chimney restoration, masonry services, chimney damper repairs, smoky chimneys, smelly chimneys, loose mortar on the chimney and any other chimney or fireplace services you need.