Chimney Leaks: Why They Happen, How to Spot Them, and How to Stop Them

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03/25/21

Chimney damage can quickly escalate to expensive repairs if not tackled immediately. Identifying the leak source and performing the proper repair is the first order of business. The professionals at Chimney.com are familiar with the common sources of chimney leaks and how to quickly diffuse them so your home can stay protected. Learn more about the signs of chimney leaks, what causes them, and how to prevent them so you can stay one step ahead.

If you are suspicious you may have a leak, or you need to schedule your annual chimney maintenance, call the pros at Chimney.com today for chimney inspection and service at 301-761-2228.

What Are Signs You Have a Chimney Leak?

Leaks are never good in any circumstance. But chimney leaks can quickly turn the ambiance of your warm hearth into a mucky disaster. Not sure if you have a leak or not? Here are five telltale signs that you do:

  • Musty odors that are worse after rainfall.
  • Water stains, moisture, or visible water around the chimney ceilings/walls.
  • Dripping water sounds inside the chimney.
  • Noticeable cracks in the masonry.
  • Water or moisture inside the firebox.

If one or more of these signs are present, don’t delay. Act now to safeguard your home and living environment.

If your chimney is aging and needs repairs, structural attention, or an inspection, contact the professionals at Chimney.com today at 301-761-2228!

Common Sources of Chimney Leaks

Chimneys are subject to the elements—rain, wind, snow, heat—which causes them to deteriorate with time. Small damages may seem insignificant but can trigger bigger, more expensive issues when ignored. Chimneys require annual inspections and maintenance to keep them in tip-top shape. When these don’t occur, things can slip through the cracks—literally. Here are four common sources of chimney leaks that are addressed during a service call or inspection:

  • Chimney mud cap: The mud cap is the mortared section on top of your chimney. Cracked or loose mortar in the mud cap permits rainwater from entering the fireplace or elsewhere in the home.
  • Chimney mortar joints: When mortar joints deteriorate, they leave holes that can allow water to enter.
  • Chimney flashing: Leaks around flashing can cause sizeable leaks during a storm.
  • Roof shingles: Shingles are one of the least common causes for a chimney leak, but they happen.
  • No chimney cover: Without a chimney cover, rain can go right into your home from the top of your chimney.

Chimney.com offers in-depth chimney inspections in Maryland, Northern Virginia, and Washington, DC. Contact us today at 301-761-2228 to schedule one today!

What to Do When You Have a Chimney Leak

If you have a chimney leak, don’t panic, but don’t delay either. The skilled chimney technicians at Chimney.com can zero-in on your leak quickly and efficiently before things get out of hand. We are available for your service needs when you need us. As tempting as it may be to tackle a chimney leak on your own to save money, we would discourage you from doing so. The savings are often temporary as leaks are not only tricky to pinpoint but also require thorough repairs and testing to ensure they don’t reoccur, trigger other problems, or become ongoing issues. As a fully licensed, trained, and insured chimney service, we offer our customers peace of mind that the restoration will stand the test of time (and weather). And customers will receive a full point-by-point report that details what was done so you can understand why your chimney was leaking and why you can trust our repair.

How to Prevent Future Chimney Leaks

The best way to prevent future chimney leaks is to stay on top of regular chimney maintenance. Chimneys should be inspected annually before you see signs of disrepair. By scheduling an annual inspection with Chimney.com you prevent costly leaks from occurring. Save yourself the cost and inconvenience of chimney leaks by making sure your chimney is ready for what each season brings.

Schedule a Chimney Inspection in DC, MD & VA with Chimney.com

A chimney inspection can get to the heart of your leak, saving you time and money with qualified, chimney contractors you can trust. Chimney.com is one of the few Maryland chimney companies licensed by WSSC to perform services on gas appliances. You can count on our technicians to complete all inspection and repair work on time and within your budget. With more than 30 years of experience, we are dedicated to superior craftmanship, premium chimney materials, and exceptional customer service.

Contact Chimney.com online today or call us at 301-761-2228 for qualified, licensed chimney repairs in Maryland, Northern Virginia, and Washington, DC.

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It went very well. I was impressed that none of the technicians attempted to "sell" any product. The advice was sound but not pushy. He gave advice but indicated that there was no immediate...

It went very well. I was impressed that none of the technicians attempted to "sell" any product. The advice was sound but not pushy. He gave advice but indicated that there was no immediate...

Washington, DC Senora S.
Fast, courteous, on-time service by a seasoned professional who didn't do the hard sell, just informed (with photographs of the interior of my chimney) us of the condition of our more than ...

Fast, courteous, on-time service by a seasoned professional who didn't do the hard sell, just informed (with photographs of the interior of my chimney) us of the condition of our more than ...

Silver Spring, MD Eugene K.
I was looking for someone to inspect my gas fireplace. I purchased the house a couple of years ago and was unsure when it was last looked at. Through Angie’s list, I found Chimney.Com whi...

I was looking for someone to inspect my gas fireplace. I purchased the house a couple of years ago and was unsure when it was last looked at. Through Angie’s list, I found Chimney.Com whi...

Melissa A.
The technician was very punctual and courteous. He did a thorough inspection of the fireplace and gave us an inspection report with tips for ongoing maintenance of the fireplace. We felt we...

The technician was very punctual and courteous. He did a thorough inspection of the fireplace and gave us an inspection report with tips for ongoing maintenance of the fireplace. We felt we...

Fairfax, VA Prathap H.

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courteous service