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Waterproofing Your Chimney
When properly maintained, your chimney may be one of the strongest and most reliable elements of the structure of your home, making it an invaluable asset. However, prolonged exposure to the environment may seriously damage a chimney over time if regular cleaning and preventative care from a professional sweeper are not provided. The integrity of your chimney is most often challenged by water from rain, sleet, snow, and other precipitation. Fortunately, waterproofing your chimney is a good approach to shield it from potential moisture-related damage.
How does waterproofing work?
Every exposed masonry surface on a chimney needs to have a specific sealant placed to ensure excellent waterproofing. It is also feasible to waterproof the cement chimney crown located at the top of the chimney. A high-quality chimney sealant forms an effective barrier that stops water from leaking into the masonry’s tiny cracks and spaces. Because the seal is “vapour-permeable,” natural moisture that collects on the masonry’s surface can escape even though water cannot pass through it. One of the best and least expensive ways to prolong the life of your chimney is to waterproof it.
Reasons you need to waterproof your chimney
- AVOID MORE DAMAGE
The most successful method of stopping continual degradation resulting from moisture exposure is to waterproof your chimney. Over time, uncovered masonry will continue to erode, requiring costly repairs or maybe an entire rebuild. Waterproofing your chimney can also help avoid concerns inside your house, like mould and mildew, decaying wood, and damage to the walls and ceilings within. You may have to completely reconstruct your chimney if it sustains severe moisture damage over time, which might cost you thousands of dollars.
- MAKE SURE CHIMNEY IS PROTECTED
If you have a chimney cap, you might think that your chimney is waterproof. But it’s really like an umbrella in a rainstorm; while it might protect you from the rain above, rain that falls at an angle will still hit the rest of your body. A good chimney cap, flashing, chimney crown, and vapour-permeable waterproof coating are crucial for complete chimney protection.
- INCREASE YOUR HOME VALUE
Maintaining the proper waterproofing of your chimney can have an immense impact on the value of your home. Water damage may result in expensive repairs and a decrease in home value. It can be avoided by having a well-maintained chimney that is waterproofed effectively. You can maintain the structural integrity of your chimney and avoid problems like rust, degradation, and leaks by investing in high-quality waterproofing solutions.
- REDUCED CHANCE OF FIRE DAMAGE
Compared to a non-waterproofed chimney, a waterproofed chimney has a lower likelihood of catching fire. Compared to a large number of other materials commonly employed for this purpose, the brickwork withstands heat better and stays stable. Avoid future problems with water where moisture could do structural damage to your house. Nobody wants to deal with water damage, especially during the winter! Dangerous conditions can arise from water leaks.
- ENHANCED ENERGY EFFECTIVENESS
The energy efficiency of your house can be boosted by waterproofing the chimney. A well-maintained chimney maintains increased thermal qualities by limiting moisture damage and preventing water infiltration. This reduces the load on your heating and cooling systems by preserving warm air inside during the winter and cool air outside during the summer. You can thereby reduce your energy costs and raise your home’s general level of comfort.
CHIMNEY WATERPROOFING TYPES
Experts frequently employ two kinds of waterproofing
Internal Waterproofing
Covering the internal surface of the chimney with this membrane. It helps keep moisture out and gives a watertight sealer. Moreover, the wall will keep any creosote or soot from entering the building and causing harm.
External Waterproofing
The process of external waterproofing involves coating the chimney’s exterior with a sealant. By diverting water, this technique assists in preventing snow and rain from harming the stonework. It is necessary to prolong the chimney’s life and preserve its structural integrity.
What is the duration of chimney waterproofing?
The duration of the application is dependent on several situations, but it usually ranges from five to ten years. In addition to inspecting your chimney, your chimney professional will talk about the particular waterproofing material that they are using with you. By then, you will know with greater certainty how long your chimney will be securely protected. Like everything else related to chimneys, waterproofing is an ongoing procedure. To keep your chimney’s structure and chimney crown safe from the damaging effects of incoming water, it should be treated periodically.
Is waterproofing necessary? Absolutely
Your first layer of protection from the weather is waterproofing. It assists in protecting your chimney and every part of it, from the cap and crown to the masonry. Long-term cost savings have been achieved in addition to improved fireplace system longevity.
FOR CHIMNEY WATERPROOFING, HIRE A PROFESSIONAL
Get an in-depth waterproofing service and inspection from a trained chimney specialist, prepared for the unique damage and construction of your chimney. Experts have the tools necessary to securely reach and treat every outside chimney surface, including scaffolding and lift buckets. Our staff has an immense amount of experience waterproofing chimneys at Chimney Sweeps. After evaluating the extent of the water damage to your masonry, the team fixes it seamlessly and uses the correct waterproofing material for the job. For added protection against water seeping into your house, we can repair or seal the chimney crown and install a cap.
Call Us
Do not wait. If you want to be safe and prepared to start fires, now is an ideal time to complete your waterproofing services. For further information, contact us via phone or online!