With the end of winter on the horizon and the prospect of using your fireplace less, perhaps you are considering some restorative measures to extend the lifespan of your chimney. That is an excellent idea, and if you want to safeguard your chimney against the elements so it lasts longer, nothing beats waterproofing.
Waterproofing is crucial to the longevity of your chimney. Long-term exposure to the wind and sun will bake your chimney’s bricks like ceramics in an oven. Cooked bricks are porous and thirsty. They are transformed and exhibit sponge-like properties. Baked bricks become porous and will drink in all the moisture they come into contact with. So, if you want to protect your chimney for the long haul, here are the benefits of chimney waterproofing.
Some Benefits of Chimney WaterproofingWater is a destructive force of nature. It is the arch enemy of your chimney’s well-being. When water gets inside your chimney’s bricks, they will expand and contract over and over in freezing weather. This process is known as the freeze-thaw cycle and is like the death throws of your chimney. It’s analogous to bending a wire back and forth until it breaks. So, too, will the bricks in your chimney break from the never-ending expansion and contraction of the winter months. Your bricks will begin to crumble and break in a process known as “spalling.” Waterproofing can prevent spalling.
When your chimney begins to feel the effects of multiple freeze-thaw cycles, it may experience structural damage that can interfere with the required airflow from your chimney. Each time you burn logs in your fireplace, a tarry, sticky, flammable substance called creosote is produced. When there is poor ventilation from your chimney, then creosote can coat the inside of your chimney. If a hot ember climbs up the flue and creosote has collected, there is a distinct possibility of a chimney fire occurring. Poor ventilation from a damaged chimney puts it at risk for fire and makes it difficult to keep the fires you light burning. Waterproofing can prevent a chimney fire.
Now you understand that because of waterproofing and what it can prevent, its main benefit is extending your chimney’s life. So, if you plan on living the rest of your life with your current chimney or passing your home on to someone else, then having your chimney waterproofed is a must.
Professional chimney sweep services will use a simple technique before waterproofing your chimney can start. Prior to waterproofing, your chimney must be thoroughly examined for any apparent signs of damage, and if any are discovered, the chimney sweeps will fix it before waterproofing starts.
The process of waterproofing has several steps:
As we just stated, the chimney sweeps will thoroughly inspect the chimney for signs of damage.
In order for the waterproofing substance to adhere to your chimney, any grime, dirt, algae, or mold must be removed. If your chimney is especially caked with soil and moss, it may require pressure washing to remove everything. Once your chimney has been scrubbed clean, it will allow the chimney sweeps to better search for any issues that might have been concealed by dirt.
If the chimney sweeps locate damage after inspection, repairs must be carried out prior to the chimney being sealed. It may extend the sealing process if any damage is located. The bricks or mortar may have to be replaced and must be allowed to cure before waterproofing can begin.
Once all required repairs are completed, the last step in the process is to apply the waterproof sealant to your chimney. It will have a permeable and breathable seal designed for chimneys. The sealant will keep moisture from getting out while keeping new moisture from getting in. Specialized tools will be used by the chimney sweeps to coat your chimney with waterproof sealant, Like sprayers and brushes designed for the process. Once the sealant is applied, a curing period is required before your chimney is finally sealed.
National Chimney Cleaners Know Chimney WaterproofingIf you want to enjoy your fireplace and chimney decades into the future, waterproofing your chimney is a wise choice. Contact us today to find out what is involved with waterproofing your chimney. We can schedule one of our chimney experts to come and inspect your chimney and provide an estimate of the costs. Don’t wait until your chimney sustains too much water damage, get in touch right away.
