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Using chimney sealant is a personal choice, but if you choose not to use it, you risk damage. Although the masonry can be quite beautiful, brick is porous and will absorb moisture like a sponge, cracking as it does so.
A chimney can’t keep out all water, and as it deteriorates, it becomes even more vulnerable to moisture damage. The best way to protect your chimney is to apply a waterproof sealant.
What Is Chimney Sealant and Why Is it Needed?
Chimney sealant is a substance applied to the outside of bricks to protect them from moisture, which can destroy them. Over time, the masonry absorbs water from rain, humidity, and condensation. When the temperature reaches freezing levels the frozen water expands in the pores and breaks the bricks. Once the ice melts and the water evaporates, the empty space remains and provides an even larger area to be filled next time. This process will repeat until the bricks start to crack and some might even become loose and fall out.
What Happens if There’s Existing Moisture Damage?
Don’t just apply sealant once you’ve noticed water damage. Chimney sealing is a preventive measure, and if your bricks are already hurt by moisture, sealing them could make things worse.
There’s no shortage of things that can damage your chimney liner, especially in Missouri. Learn more by reading about the causes in our blog.
How To Spot a Damaged Chimney
Perhaps you aren’t sure how to tell if your chimney is damaged. Here are several signs to look for:
- Cracks:
Visible cracks in your chimney’s brickwork that weren’t caused by something falling on it indicate extensive damage. - Spalling:
Spalling consists of flaking and peeling brickwork. - Efflorescence:
Efflorescence is a white, powdery substance that is left behind after water evaporates from masonry. - Damaged mortar joints:
In addition to bricks, moisture can also damage what holds them together. If your mortar becomes flaky, it will expose even more of your brickwork, which will speed up the damage. - Missing and loose bricks:
If you notice broken or missing bricks, you might be risking a chimney collapse.
Furthermore, metal components in a vent system are prone to rust, and corrosion can create holes throughout the metal.
Regardless of the material or damage, it’s always a good idea to get a chimney inspection. A professional can recommend repairs and ongoing maintenance to prevent additional damage.
How Does Chimney Sealing Provide Protection?
Chimney flue sealant is an easy and affordable solution that can last up to 15 to 20 years. The ideal sealant is vapor-permeable to prevent moisture from getting inside while allowing the brick’s pores to breathe.
Here are the benefits of waterproofing your chimney:
- Prevents cracked, loose, and falling bricks
- Reduces risk of leaking masonry or a collapsed chimney
- Protects the structure of your chimney bricks
- Increases the lifespan of your chimney
Approved Home Improvements Is Here for Your Chimney Sealant Needs
When you need to have your chimney waterproofed, nobody will do the job better than a professional. At Approved Home Improvements, we take pride in our work. When we seal your chimney, you’ll know it’s protected.
There are other benefits to hiring a professional. Our expertise makes it easy to spot other problems you might not know about. While we’re sealing your chimney, we can also perform a chimney inspection to determine other areas that need attention. For example, you might need tuckpointing or it might be time to get your chimney cleaned.
If you’re ready to have your chimney sealed, or if you need some repair work done first, contact us for a free consultation.
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