Leaky Chimney

Spring showers may sprout May flowers, but the wet season can also spring a chimney leak. For over three decades, the Masters Services of Certified Chimney Professionals has built a solid reputation as the premiere company for homeowners across the Dallas-Fort Worth metro area – including communities like Lewisville TX, Garland TX, Dallas TX – in quickly detecting and repairing chimney leaks. We ensure compliance with NFPA 211 standards and codes, giving you the confidence that "we fix it right the first time."

Why Is My Chimney Leaking?

While the winters in North Texas may be relatively mild compared to other regions, these areas experience heavy rains, hailstorms, and occasional snow and ice, making a leaky chimney one of the most common problems homeowners face.

Common Sources of Chimney Leaks

Sometimes, a leak can go unnoticed for extended periods, silently damaging the interior masonry and components, only becoming apparent during a routine chimney inspection or when noticeable water stains or masonry damage appear near and around the chimney. The common causes of these leaks may be due to one or more compromised components:

Flashing

The flashing is the metal barrier that creates a watertight seal where your chimney meets the roof. Due to weather exposure, expansion, and contraction or improper installation, the flashing can crack, rust, or warp, allowing water to seep directly into your attic and roof deck.

Chimney Crown

The chimney crown is the concrete slab that caps the top of your chimney, protecting the flue and masonry from the elements. Cracks in the crown, often caused by freezing and thawing cycles, house settling, or improper construction, are direct pathways for water to enter the chimney structure.

Chimney Cap

A chimney cap sits atop the flue, acting as the first line of defense against rain, snow, debris, and even animals. A missing, damaged, or poorly fitted chimney cap leaves your chimney vulnerable, allowing water to stream directly down the flue.

Damaged Masonry

The bricks, stones, and mortar that make up your chimney are porous materials. The constant exposure to weather, especially freeze-thaw cycles, can cause mortar joints to deteriorate and bricks to crack, spall, and even separate from the chimney. These breaches in the masonry allow water to leak inside the chimney's internal structure, compromising its integrity.

Signs of a Leaky Chimney

A chimney leak is not always as prominent as rain dripping in the firebox. It can often go unnoticed for lengthy periods, causing significant damage to the interior masonry and other components before visible signs appear. This can lead to costly repairs and even compromise the structural integrity of your chimney.

If you spot any of the following signs of a potential leaky chimney, call Masters Services to schedule an inspection as soon as possible:

• Water Stains or streaks on the walls or ceiling surrounding your fireplace, on the chimney's exterior, and in the attic can result from a chimney leak.
• Damp Odor or a persistent musty smell coming from your fireplace, especially after it rains.
• Rust on the damper or other metal components.
• Efflorescence, white, powdery mineral deposits on the exterior brickwork, indicating that water is seeping through and evaporating, bringing mineral salts to the surface.
• Cracked or Crumbling Mortar joints or spalling bricks are clear signs of water intrusion and ongoing damage.
• Peeling Wallpaper or Damaged Paint from water leaking through the chimney can migrate into adjacent walls, causing cosmetic damage.

Emergency Chimney Services

Leaks can happen at any time. Masters Services provides fast response for emergencies, including chimney leaks. Our Certified Chimney Professionals will inspect to determine the extent of the damage and provide immediate solutions to prevent further damage. We will also provide a written estimate for the necessary repairs to restore your chimney to code and ensure its structural integrity.

We Fix Leaky Chimneys in Dallas-Fort Worth, TX

Do you suspect a chimney leak? The team at Masters Services understands the importance of providing exceptional chimney care with a focus on safety, reliability, and customer satisfaction. Our skilled professionals are always ready to resolve these and any other problem you may face with your chimney, fireplace, or other heating appliances. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with a Certified Chimney Sweep®.