Have you noticed water stains or condensation on the walls adjacent your chimney? If so, this is probably an indication that there is water flowing on the outside of your chimney. This usually happens when water is able to get past the place where your chimney exits your home through the roof. At Old Smokey’s, we know that leaking near the roof can cause big and expensive problems for the rest of your home. We want to let you know what is causing your leaking and what can be done to fix it.

Flashing

The most likely cause of chimney leaking near the roof is related to your chimney roof flashing. When your chimney was constructed, the roof was built around it. Because your chimney gets hot, you wouldn’t want your chimney flush with your roof. Also, your chimney tends to settle at a different rate than your home, so you wouldn’t want it connected to your home. Therefore, there is a gap in between your chimney and your roof. This gap is where most water is allowed in. To cover this gap, we install flashing. Flashing is a metal piece that is attached to your roof and your chimney, covering the gap.

However, after years of weathering, your chimney roof flashing can start to wear out, rust, or become detached. When this happens, there is nothing to prevent water from flowing into your home on the outside of your chimney, causing all sorts of issues. You can easily resolve this issue by having you’re chimney flashing replaced by a CSIA-certified chimney technician.

Sealant

Sometimes your flashing may be in good shape, but the sealant that attached it has worn out. Once this happens, your flashing may detach and not function correctly. This is a common issue since sealant usually isn’t designed to last as long as the flashing. If your chimney flashing needs resealing, a CSIA-certified chimney technician can seal your chimney up to prevent leakage.

Although replacing flashing and sealing your chimney gap may seem like something that can be done by watching a couple of “how to” videos, only an experienced chimney technician can know for sure if your roof has been sealed correctly. Even the tiniest gap can cause devastating leaking into your home.

If you think that you may have a leak from your roof, Old Smokey’s is here for you. Call Old Smokey’s today at 800-876-6539 or 260-424-0009, or schedule an appointment online to meet with one of our CSIA chimney technicians today!