How to Know Your Chimney Crown is Damaged (And What to Do About It)
The chimney crown is an important part of your chimney system, preventing water damage. Crowns are typically made from concrete or metal and sit on top of the chimney to prevent water from seeping into the masonry. However, damaged crowns can put your chimney and parts of your home in a world of hurt if you don’t fix the issues promptly.
Let’s look at the common signs that your chimney crown is damaged and what you can do about it.
Signs Your Chimney Crown Might Be Damaged
The most effective way to check to see if your chimney crown is damaged is to hire a professional chimney sweep to perform an inspection. Because the crown sits on top of the chimney, it’s difficult to see visible damage from down low. However, without an inspection, there are telltale signs that things aren’t right with your crown.
Visible Cracks
While it’s true that it’s nearly impossible to see cracks on the crown from the yard, you might be able to use a pair of binoculars to check for lines running across the surface. Small cracks let water in, which can freeze and expand, making them worse and leading to more severe damage.
Pieces Falling Off
Sometimes, the top layer of the crown starts chipping and flaking, which is called spalling. This happens when water leaks in over time. If you see light pieces of cement in your gutters or around the chimney’s base, it’s a red flag that the crown is in danger.
Rust Stains on the Bricks
If you have a metal chimney cap, rust stains running down the side could signal that the crown is damaged. And it’s not just bad for the crown, it’s bad for the bricks, too.
Leaks in the House
Water stains on the ceiling or walls near the fireplace may be coming from above and not the roof. Damaged crowns let rainwater stream straight down the flue or seep into the chimney walls.
Masonry Damage Just Below the Crown
If the bricks and mortar joints under the crown are crumbling or darkened from moisture, chances are the crown isn’t doing its job anymore.
Why You Shouldn’t Ignore It
A damaged crown is like an umbrella with a hole in it; it defeats the purpose. Once water gets past the protective barrier, it can damage the chimney’s bricks, mortar, liner, and even parts of the roof or attic. What’s worse is that the repairs are often more expensive than if you’d fixed the crown early on.
How to Protect Your Chimney Crown
Get Regular Inspections
You don’t have to get up on the roof to check the crown yourself. Schedule a chimney inspection from a trained professional at least once a year. Pros have the training to identify crown and chimney issues that the average person might miss, which could save you thousands in repairs down the road.
Install a Chimney Cap
A cap is like a roof for the crown and flue. It keeps water off the surface and from getting down into the chimney. It’s also handy for keeping critters and debris out. Installing a cap is one of the easiest and least expensive preventive measures you can take.
Waterproof It
A professional chimney company can apply a waterproof sealant over the crown. These modern products are breathable, allowing moisture out, but not in. Waterproofing is inexpensive and can save you from expensive crown and chimney damage and extend the lifespan of your chimney system.
Repair Cracks ASAP
Hairline cracks seem minor, but can quickly worsen, resulting in crown damage that requires extensive repairs or a complete replacement. If an inspector notices small cracks, get them sealed as soon as possible.
It’s easy to ignore your chimney crown until it’s too late. By then, you’re likely dealing with leaks, crumbling bricks, and possibly an unsafe chimney. Catching and fixing damage early and taking steps to prevent damage are crucial to your crown and chimney’s long lifespan and performance.
Contact Chimney Solutions Today!
Unsure what state your chimney crown is in, or do you need a thorough chimney cleaning? No matter, because Chimney Solutions in Chattanooga is here to help. We offer professional chimney inspections, sweeping, relining, crown and cap repair, fireplace repairs, and more. Contact us today!
