What’s that drip drip drip in the quiet of the night? You know it’s not the “plop plop fizz fizz oh what a relief it is” of the famous 1965 Alka-Seltzer TV ad (reprised for the 2007 Superbowl). And you know it’s not as terrifying as the beating sound immortally described in “The Tell-Tale Heart” by Edgar Allan Poe. No, it’s nothing like that at all. You typically do not hear ANYTHING from a chimney leak. That actually makes it scarier.
So, let Old Smokey’s Fireplace & Chimney be your chimney-leak Sherlock Holmes.
What are the signs and symptoms of a chimney leak?
Truth be told, the signs of a chimney leak are more apt to be visual or tactile than aural. The signs might even be olfactory if a leak is causing mold to form. Nevertheless, there are identifiable markers of a chimney leak. Those signs might be on or within the chimney itself or in associated elements within or outside your structure.
From experience, we at Old Smokey’s can share with you several tell-tale signs. Water in your hearth, crumbling mortar joints, visible water around your flashing, damaged roof shingles or cracked brickwork come to mind.
But what are the causes of chimney leaks?
Chimney leaks result from a variety of causes, some rather simple, others more complex. Let’s go over some of these root causes. You may simply be getting rainwater dripping down because you don’t have a chimney cover or cap. It’s possible you have a chimney leak resulting from leaking bricks that because of age and wear simply need replacing. You may have an improper or damaged chimney liner or a damaged flue. A common cause of chimney leaks is bad flashing or bad sealant around the flashing.
Old Smokey’s is both humble and open-minded: you might have a chimney leak from a bizarre and unusual cause we have not seen in 30 years. It’s unlikely but possible.
Why get an inspection?
The best way to sleep at night not worried about the silent danger of a chimney leak is to get a chimney inspection. Only a chimney masonry professional can be the most reliable Sherlock Holmes for detecting brick or mortar erosion, flashing damage or other potential breaches. That’s why the experience and training of Old Smokey’s technicians is a wise investment.
What takes place with a chimney inspection?
It depends on the degree of detail you choose. Old Smokey’s performs three defined levels of National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) chimney inspections. The assessments range from observing discernible cracks to sophisticated video scanning. In any case, Old Smokey’s is proficient and adept at finding the causes of leaks.
How are chimney leaks repaired?
Of course, the answer to that depends upon the cause of the leak. Rest assured Old Smokey’s will speak to you in plain English to review the best options to remedy any problems you might have. Whether we are talking proper sealing or new bricks or flashing, we will give you straight talk.
We’ve been serving folks just like you for 30+ years. We’ve built a solid reputation in northern Indiana, northern Ohio and mid-Michigan. Old Smokey’s highly trained service staff are certified specialists. So, don’t hesitate to call Old Smokey’s at 800-876-6539. Oh what a relief it will be.