Your chimney crown is one of the most important components that safely seals your chimney and protects it from harsh weather. It acts as a shield against rain, leaves, and birds. Unfortunately, the chimney crown is the most exposed component and, therefore, could become eroded due to rain and other factors as the years go by. You need to know when to repair it as if damaged, it can endanger your chimney and home. Keep reading to discover the top five signs your chimney crown needs repair.
1. Visible Cracks in the Chimney Crown
Over time, your chimney crown might develop cracks. They can be due to poor construction, freeze-thaw cycle or aging of materials. If you ignore them, water will seep in, freeze and expand, causing the cracks to widen and deepen. Over time, these issues can cause significant structural damage to your chimney.
So, regularly inspect your chimney crown for cracks, and if you notice them, act fast. Contact a professional chimney company for timely and reliable repairs.
2. Water Leaks Inside Your Home
A compromised chimney crown is likely to allow water to penetrate inside your house. You may notice water stains on the ceiling and wall. If you do nothing, the leaking water can lead to more severe issues like damaged drywall, rotting wood and weakened structural integrity.
Sadly, this problem is not always noticeable especially during the early stages. The water can leak for months without your knowledge. That’s why it’s essential to invest in regular chimney inspection. The idea is to detect water leaks inside your home early and repair the chimney crown.
3. Deterioration of the Chimney Crown Material
As time goes your chimney crown will deteriorate due to exposure to direct UV rays and other elements. It’s likely to start chipping, flaking or spalling. If you notice these signs of deterioration, consider chimney crown repair. If you do it in a timely manner, you can minimize the damage and extend the crown’s lifespan.
4. Rust Stains on the Chimney Exterior
During chimney inspections, be on the lookout for rust stains. They can be a sign of water penetration. If you notice them, contact a chimney company for maintenance repairs. Request them on what you can do to prevent the problem from recurring.
5. Pooling Water on Top of the Crown
Improperly constructed or installed chimney crowns are likely to accumulate a pool of water on top. Such a crown does not have the right slope, and that’s why the water does not run off. If you do nothing, the water might infiltrate into the chimney, causing more damage usrealtyis.
So, after detecting this sign then, it can be an indication it’s time to seek chimney crown repair.
Conclusion
As a homeowner you might miss signs your chimney crown needs repairs. So, it can be prudent to seek professional chimney inspection services. The experts can detect early on when your chimney crown has issues and recommend the best way to resolve them.
