Potential Chimney Problems Caused by Bad Weather

Stormy weather has the potential to cause chimney problems, especially when your area experiences heavy rainfall, strong winds, or lightning strikes. Chimneys are exposed to the worst of storms because they are typically the highest point on the rooftop. That’s in addition to the fact that chimneys can be very vulnerable to moisture damage when there is any kind of precipitation. The following are the types of chimney damage that commonly occur because of bad weather.

A Dislodged Chimney Cap

The chimney cap on a masonry chimney can become damaged in severe weather conditions. If you have a prefabricated fireplace, a chase cover is what prevents water from going into the chimney. The chimney cap or chase cover is the first line of defense against moisture.

In high winds, debris such as tree branches could strike against the chimney cap and cause it to become dislodged and ineffective at keeping water out of the chimney. It is essential to schedule repair or replacement of your chimney cap if it has become damaged.

Cracks in the Masonry

Chimney masonry should be free of cracks. The structures are built with features designed to keep out moisture. Anytime an exterior chimney component is fractured or cracked, the threat of moisture intrusion is greatly increased. One of the things to check as soon as possible when concerned about storm damage is whether the chimney masonry is still intact. The types of damage created by a lightning strike include large cracks that threaten to allow moisture to pour into the system.

Missing Bricks

Whether high winds, hail, a lightning strike, or some other major weather event has occurred, a potential result is that bricks can go missing. Chimney systems with missing masonry have a greatly heightened vulnerability to moisture intrusion. It’s important to contact chimney sweeps for repairs as soon as possible to avoid worsening the existing problem.

Flashing Damage

The chimney flashing is the metal portion of the chimney, and it is intended as a waterproof seal between the roof and the chimney. Unfortunately, flashing is difficult to install correctly. Heavy rains could leak through faulty flashing and leak into your home. High winds can tear the flashing away from the chimney and roof. Flashing damage is a common cause of chimney and roof leaks, especially after stormy weather.

Contact Dubuque Fireplace & Patio Today

Contact your trusted chimney sweep company if you are concerned that your chimney has been damaged in bad weather. The experienced chimney sweeps at Dubuque Fireplace & Patio will let you know the condition of the chimney cap and all other aspects of your exterior chimney. The costs to repair a chimney are usually minimized by acting quickly because the condition of a damaged chimney will worsen until existing problems are repaired.

To schedule chimney repair and maintenance, call Dubuque Fireplace & Patio at (563) 582-5156. Our sister store, Chimney Specialists, Inc., offers quality services in the Highland WI area; their number is (608) 929-4887.