Chimney Waterproofing / Water Repellent
ChimneySaver
A masonry chimney is built to last for decades, but extreme weather conditions can take its toll, accelerating normal wear and tear. The combination of cold, wet, and icy winters can deteriorate bricks and mortar, allowing water intrusion.
Freeze-Thaw Cycle
When brick loses its ability to repel water, it soaks up moisture like a sponge. As temperatures dip below freezing, the trapped moisture in tiny crevices can turn to ice, creating even bigger cracks. These larger crevices will trap even more moisture that will cause damage to the masonry during the next freeze-thaw-cycle. It's this continuation, year after year that can result in entire pieces of brick or stone to separate from the chimney.
Signs of Water Intrusion
Mold or Algae: The exterior of your chimney can become covered with mold and algae growth.
Water Stains: You may notice a white layer covering the bricks or stone. This efflorescence occurs when water penetrates the porous masonry material like bricks or stones, drawing salts to the surface.
Spalling: The freeze-thaw-cycle can cause bricks to crack, chip, and crumble from the chimney. It can cause severe structural issues, including a complete collapse if not repaired.
Mortar Joint Gaps: Water can erode the mortar creating gaps or holes in the joints that connect the bricks to the chimney causing bricks to loosen and eventually fall from the chimney. Like spalling, holes in the mortar joints can also cause severe structural problems.
Rusted Damper: Rust or corrosion on the damper is a sign of water intrusion.
Waterproofing
Waterproofing your chimney is the best way to protect your chimney against water damage. Not any type of waterproofing agent is best for your chimney. You need a product that is specially formulated for masonry chimneys. That's why our Certified Chimney Professionals use ChimneySaver by SaverSystems. ChimneySaver is a professional grade water-repellent that will protect your chimney from water damage. It is specially formulated to repel water while allowing the bricks to breathe. Tests conducted at the University of Wyoming have shown that ChimneySaver is 99.9% effective in reducing water penetration.
