4 Dangers of Moisture In Your Chimney

Spring showers might be wonderful for flowers in bloom, but it can forecast gloom for your chimney. In fact, having moisture in your chimney is a major danger sign for an array of issues. These are some of the most common dangers that you’ll find when moisture is lurking inside of your chimney.

Danger #1: Decaying Mortar

moisture in your chimneyWhen moisture leaks inside the chimney, it can lead to damaged and decaying mortar. This is also true for the outside of your chimney after years of exposure. It can eventually lead to water leakage inside the home since there are easy entry points for water.

With proper mortar joints, there are no gaps and thus won’t allow excess water to make its way inside.

One solution to fixing damaged mortar is called pointing, which is where the damaged mortar is ground out and replaced. Pointing is a great solution when the brick is still intact.

Danger #2: Chimney Deterioration

After heavy damage from moisture over the years, your chimney may begin to deteriorate. Once the bricks begin to crumble away, this exposes the chimney to major structural issues and possible collapse.

While stone chimneys aren’t substantially affected by moisture, brick chimneys can be high risk for deterioration. This is why it’s important to use waterproofing to protect the chimney.

Danger #3: Water Mixing with Creosote

A leaky chimney can lead to water mixing with creosote. Creosote is a mixture of hundreds of chemicals. It’s a thick and oily liquid that’s very flammable and can cause a range of health problems.

When water mixes with creosote in a wood burning chimney system, it creates a highly intense and unpleasant odor that can quickly invade your home.  Does your home smell like “campfire” on rainy days?  This is likely the introduction of moisture to a dirty chimney.

Danger #4: Interior Water Damage

chimney repairConsistent exposure to excess moisture can cause staining, warping, sagging, peeling of walls, floors, etc.,  and can lead to thousands of dollars of damage. Over time, this exposure can lead to mold.  In addition to discoloration of wall and ceilings, mold can cause odor within the home, and worse yet, health problems to those exposed.

Repairing the masonry and using a commercial grade waterproofing are two steps you can have done to help combat moisture. Boston’s Best Chimney uses a professional grade waterproofing product that is 100% vapor permeable. This allows water vapors to escape while discouraging water penetration to the structure.

Chimney Repair for Moisture-Damaged Chimneys

Don’t neglect moisture in your chimney. Contact Boston’s Best Chimney for chimney maintenance and repair in all aspects, call us at 781-893-6611 or book your appointment online!

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