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KANSAS CITY CHIMNEY & DRYER VENT SERVICE

Chimney Water Sealing

My chimney has white stains on the brick what is this?
The white stains or powder-like material is often the result of water penetration of the chimney. During a rain, snow, or ice storm water is absorbed by the brick and mortar crown. In the case of snow or ice storm the freeze thaw cycles can enlarge the cracks on the top of the chimney mortar crown allowing water to enter the structure this way. The chimney will soon saturate with water. As the chimney dries, lime and salts from brick and mortar are pushed out of the pores of the chimney. Wood in contact with the chimney can also absorb water, and in most cases, start to rot. This is a common problem that we can help prevent. The cost of this service depends on many factors. Call us for more info or to schedule a visit.  
 
What can be done to prevent the white stains on my brick?
The first step is a visual evaluation of the chimney crown, mortar joints and flashing. Often we find the crown has cracks caused by shrinkage of the mortar during construction. These start out as hairline cracks but get bigger over the years from freeze thaw-cycles and the natural expansion-contraction that occurs during the spring & summer seasons. If the chimney has darkened from mold and mildew, we recommend cleaning the surface of the brick with a power washing. This opens the pores of the brick and cleans off mold and mildew deposits. We apply a layer of CrownSeal on the mortar crown sealing the cracks but remaining flexible to allow for expansion-contraction cycles. Afterwards then apply the water repellent product ChimneySaver® with a low pressure sprayer. Both products have a  warranty and we have proven confidence in their ability to perform as stated. 

Masonry materials deteriorate quickly when exposed to the freeze/thaw process in which moisture that has penetrated the materials periodically freezes and expands, causing undue stress. Water in the chimney also causes rust in steel and cast iron, weakening or destroying the metal parts.

Water penetration can cause interior and exterior damage to your home and masonry chimney including:

• Spalled and broken brickwork.

• Deteriorated metal or masonry firebox assemblies.

• Rusted damper assemblies.

• Rotted adjacent wood and ruined wall coverings.

• Deteriorated central heating system

• Decayed mortar.

• Cracked flue liner systems.

Applying a water seal or waterproofing to your entire chimney will preserve your chimney it will keep the water from wicking into the chimney, should be done at least every 5 years.

Most masonry materials are very porous and absorb large amounts of water that will expand & contract through the freeze & thaw cycles of winter, causing undue stress, cracking, chimney leaks, fireplace leaks, and integrity loss.  This endless cycle will progressively escalate the severity of chimney leaks & increase the cost of fireplace chimney repairs.

Masonry water damage caused by chimney leaks is sometimes a slow, subtle process. Chimney leaks are often not evident until it has become quite serious.

Protect your investment from chimney leaks:

Have professional grade chimney caps installed.

Repair or replace a damaged chimney crown.

Repair deteriorated brick & mortar joints.

Repair or replace a leaky flashing.

Your certified Chimney Solutions chimney sweep can apply chimney saver, which has been developed specifically for use as a waterproofing agent on masonry chimneys to aid in preservation of integrity preventing brick chimney repair needs. This formula is vapor permeable, which means that it allows your masonry chimney to breathe out, but not in. Thus, water that has penetrated your masonry chimney, or moisture that has originated from inside, is allowed to escape, while the waterproofing agent prevents water entry from the outside. 

Have your chimney waterproofed!

Our certified chimney sweeps will be happy to assist you in safety inspections, chimney repair, chimney reline questions or any fireplace, dryer venting needs.

 We service all of Johnson County, Kansas City Missouri, Northland KCMO, Lee´s Summit, Blue Springs, Desoto, Shawnee Mission, Lenexa and everywhere in Between.