ChimneySaverA masonry chimney is built to last for decades, but extreme weather conditions can take its toll, accelerating normal wear and tear. Brick chimneys are comprised mainly of cement and mortar. The combination of cold, wet, and icy winters and hot, humid summers can deteriorate the bricks and mortar, allowing water intrusion.
When brick masonry loses its ability to repel water, it soaks up moisture like a sponge. As temperatures dip below freezing, the trapped moisture in the tiny crevices turns to ice. The ice crystals expand, exposing even bigger cracks in the bricks. These larger crevices will trap even more moisture that will cause more damage to the masonry during the next freeze-thaw-cycle. Its this continuation, year after year that can result in entire pieces of brick or stone to separate from the chimney. It will also allow water to intrude inside the chimney and flue, resulting in damage to internal components.
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.
Flue Liner Cracks: Excessive moisture can weaken the flue liner causing cracks or other damage that reduce its insulation properties, increasing the risk of fire or carbon monoxide poisoning.
WaterproofingWaterproofing 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 repellant 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.
