Preventing Chimney Damage with Professional Waterproofing

When most people think of chimney damage, the first thing that comes to mind is fire. While a chimney fire can wreak havoc on your heating system and home, water is the number one cause of chimney damage. Over time, rain, snow, and ice penetrate chimney masonry, leading to brick and mortar spalling, cracks in the chimney flue liner, and interior damage, including wall stains and mold growth. The most effective way to prevent water damage is to have your chimney professionally waterproofed.

Chimney Damage in New England

Due to the winter freeze-thaw cycle, untreated chimneys in New England are particularly vulnerable. “Water gets into small cracks and then freezes, expands, and breaks the chimney apart from the inside out,” explains Admiralty Chimney Owner John Butler, a CCP-Certified Master Chimney Technician. Taking proactive steps now can save you from costly repairs in the future.

The Importance of Professional Chimney Waterproofing

Masonry is porous, making it susceptible to water intrusion. A professional waterproofing acts as a barrier, preventing your chimney’s masonry from absorbing water, while allowing it to breathe. For this reason, the CCP-certified chimney professionals at Admiralty Chimney strongly recommend that all homeowners have their chimneys professionally waterproofed.

Before You Waterproof Your Chimney

Before waterproofing your chimney, our CCP-certified chimney professionals will assess its masonry for any existing damage or deterioration. Once any needed repairs are completed, we will apply the waterproofing.

Our waterproofing solution is 100% vapor-permeable, which means it won’t trap any water vapors that could pass through the bricks. This ensures that your chimney continues to safely “breathe out” the gases produced by your fireplace.

Why DIY Chimney Waterproofing Isn’t Recommended

DIY chimney waterproofing can be risky because if it is improperly applied or the wrong sealant is used, it could lead to further masonry damage and compromise your safety. 

Climbing onto a roof to waterproof a chimney also poses serious safety risks, especially on steep or uneven surfaces. Without the proper fall protection or equipment, one wrong step can lead to serious injuries or death. This is one home maintenance task that's best left to the professionals.

Is Chimney Waterproofing Worth the Money?

When it comes to waterproofing your chimney, Benjamin Franklin’s expression, “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure,” applies.  Having your chimney professionally waterproofed is a wise investment compared to shelling out several thousand dollars on masonry repairs and restorations caused by water damage. 

Chimney Waterproofing in Southern NH and Northern Massachusetts

Don’t let water destroy your chimney’s masonry. Contact our CCP-certified professionals today to schedule a waterproofing service. 

About Admiralty Chimney

Admiralty Chimney is an award-winning, locally owned chimney cleaning and repair company serving homeowners throughout southern New Hampshire and northern Massachusetts. Contact us today to learn more.

Keeping Critters Out of Your Chimney

The Importance of a Chimney Cap

Ahhh springtime. The trees are budding, the bees are buzzing, and all of our favorite backyard critters are back for another season. While our furry and feathered friends seek out their summer homes, you'll want to make sure your chimney is “off the market” by installing a chimney cap.

What is a Chimney Cap?

A chimney cap is a protective covering that sits at the very top of your chimney. Usually made of stainless steel or copper, a chimney cap keeps out snow, ice, and debris during the burning season. It also contains chimney sparks to reduce the risk of a roof fire. In the off-season, a chimney cap prevents birds, squirrels, raccoons, and even bats from building nests or taking shelter. 

Chimney Critter Problems

Once inside, these “seasonal guests” can cause serious problems:

• Blockages from nests or debris that prevent proper ventilation during the burning season (and the risk of carbon monoxide build-up)

• Odors from nesting materials, droppings, or deceased animals

• Health hazards from bacteria and parasites

• Structural damage from scratching, chewing, or acidic droppings

A properly installed chimney cap acts as a barrier, preventing animals from entering in the first place.

Now is the Time to Install a Chimney Cap

Spring or summer is the perfect time to install a chimney cap and take care of any other necessary maintenance. The weather is more reliable, and maintaining your chimney now ensures it will operate safely and efficiently during the burning season.

Chimney Cap Installations in Merrimack, NH

At Admiralty Chimney, we offer professional chimney cap installation services in Merrimack and neighboring towns in New Hampshire and Massachusetts. Whether you need a new cap installed or want to replace an old one, contact our experienced technicians. We will make sure your chimney is secure and ready for whatever Mother Nature throws its way. 

>Related Chimney Topics:  

CHIMNEY WATERPROOFING

CHIMNEY MASONRY REPAIR

CHIMNEY CLEANINGS

END-OF-SEASON CHIMNEY CARE

Protect Your Home's Safety and Value with Routine Chimney Maintenance

Routine maintenance is essential to keeping your home safe and preserving its long-term value. One often overlooked aspect of home maintenance is the chimney. If you’re like most homeowners, you won’t think much about yours until you have a significant problem. Here are five reasons why an annual chimney cleaning and inspection should be at the top of your home maintenance checklist:

Why Routine Chimney Maintenance is Recommended:

1. Heating Efficiency

A clean chimney ensures your fireplace works efficiently by ensuring adequate airflow and optimal heating performance

2. Chimney Fires

A chimney fire is a common but preventable danger. Over time, creosote, a flammable by-product of burned wood, accumulates inside your chimney. Without an annual cleaning, this buildup can reach dangerous levels, increasing your risk of a chimney fire. A professional cleaning will remove any creosote buildup and ensure your chimney is free from obstructions such as debris, leaves, or animal nests--all of which increase your risk of a fire.

3. Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Your chimney’s principal purpose is to vent toxic gases—including carbon monoxide—out of your home. If blocked or damaged, gases can seep back into your living space, putting your family’s health and safety at risk. An annual cleaning and inspection will identify potential blockages or damage and ensure your chimney vents correctly.

4. Home Structure

Chimneys deteriorate over time--especially when exposed to the type of elements we have in New England. Cracked bricks, damaged mortar, or missing flashing allow water to get into your home, causing mold and mildew growth and creating structural problems. A routine chimney inspection will allow you to address these issues early before they require costly repairs.

5. Curb Appeal

Intact and structurally sound chimney masonry will contribute to the beauty of your home’s exterior. Likewise, damaged masonry can detract from your home’s curb appeal. Annual chimney maintenance is the best way to identify masonry issues at the start.

Pro Tip: Summer is the best time for masonry repairs because of the warmer temperatures. 

Chimney Inspections, Cleanings, and Repair in Southern NH and Northern MA

Admiralty Chimney offers professional chimney inspections, cleaning, and repair throughout Southern New Hampshire and Northern Massachusetts. Contact our certified chimney professionals today to schedule your routine chimney maintenance