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Do I Need A Chimney Repair When Rain Comes Down My Chimney?

A fireplace is beautiful and comforting but rain splashing down from the chimney is not. It can also be a sign of a more serious issue within the chimney system. If you are unsure of where the leak is coming from, it’s time to call North Shore Roofing to see if you need a chimney repair.

What Causes Chimney Leaks?

There could be a number of causes for chimney leaks, including structural damage, roofing problems, chimney lining, and crown issues. It is a critical reason why a chimney inspection is needed. With the proper testing, a simulation of rain through each of these areas will identify causes.

  • Structural Damage

The chimney structure is made up of bricks and mortar. Wind, snow, and rainfall, over time, penetrates the chimney wall and eats away at the mortar filling. It will eventually lead to broken bricks and gaps in the chimney wall without proper inspection and upkeep. With structural damage, it will require more serious chimney repair, including brick and mortar joint rebuilding and repointing.

  • Roof Problems

This is not an uncommon problem for many homeowners. The roof is connected to the chimney with flashing. When the roof’s flashing is damaged, it can also cause water to enter the chimney. Wind is also problematic. With high winds, it can dislodge shingles and cause brick damage. When you have your next roof inspection, ask for a full chimney inspection to ensure there is no damage.

  • Cracked Chimney Liner

A chimney’s lining plays a vital role in a fireplace as it protects the brick and mortar from the intensity of the fire. It also allows heat to enter a home rather than absorb into the bricks. Since liners can be metal, clay, or ceramic, you need to check for damage annually. If damaged, it can also allow water to enter the fireplace because there is no protection in place for the lower part of a chimney wall.

  • Chimney Cap Issues

If you have ever noticed the top of a chimney, you likely see a cap covering the bricks. This small crown of the chimney has a very important function as it protects the inside from weather-related elements by allowing rain runoff to travel safely to the gutter system. It also supports the upkeep of the chimney’s masonry, which is the reason why your fireplace normally does not allow water to travel down. When the chimney cap is broken or missing, it enables water to penetrate the chimney walls and travel down into the fireplace.

How To Fix Rain In A Chimney

A fix is possible regardless of what is causing the issue. Sometimes, it only requires a quick part replacement like a crown. Other times it requires more serious brick and mortar replacement or residential roofing repairs. It all depends on the structural elements that are affected and how best to remedy the problem. Whatever it is, North Shore Roofing will be able to handle any type of repair, from the chimney system to the rooftop.

To learn more about North Shore Roofing chimney repair and replacement, call us at (978) 977-3816. You can also visit our Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/NorthShoreRoofingMA to learn more about our services. You can also send us a private message for chimney repair.