Space and time
Avoid chimney repairs
With the pending onset of the North American monsoon, homeowners with chimneys should remember that prolonged contact with water can deteriorate brick, mortar and tile, and corrode steel and cast iron. Expansion from the freeze/thaw effect also can cause chimney damage like cracks or gaps where creosote can collect and noxious gases can escape into your home. To avoid the costly repairs from such deterioration, heed this advice from the
Install a chimney cap. Also called a rain cover, a chimney cap is the most inexpensive way to prevent water damage to a chimney. Your unprotected chimney’s flue collects water and funnels it directly inside the chimney, but a strong, well-designed cap keeps water (and birds) out. Caps also keep chimney sparks inside, where they belong.
Repair or replace a damaged chimney crown. Most chimney crowns are made of common mortar, which does not withstand years of weather. Replace yours with one made of a Portland cement-based mixture that creates an overhang, or drip edge, projecting beyond all sides of the chimney by at least 2 inches.
Repair or replace flashing. Flashing keeps rain from running down your chimney under your shingles and into your home. Use an L-shaped piece of metal that extends from under the roofing shingles up the side of the chimney. Then, use counter flashing that overlaps the base flashing and is sealed into the chimney’s masonry joints.
Waterproof your chimney. Common brick and mortar are like sponges, wicking moisture to the chimney interior.
Add a vapor-permeable waterproofing agent to let moisture out, but prevent it from coming in. Never use paint or any non-vapor-permeable water sealer because it will trap moisture inside the chimney, hastening deterioration.
For a list of CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps, visitcsai.org. These professionals are well-versed in fire codes, clearances and standards for the construction and maintenance of chimneys, and venting systems.
Money
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Elana Ashanti Jefferson, The Denver Post
