While roof leaks can occur anywhere on your roof, they commonly develop around chimneys, vents, skylights, and other roof penetrations around the roof.
Leaky chimney problems can quickly become costly and may include drywall warping, ceiling stains, insulation saturation, mold growth, and interior home damage.
Don’t make the mistake of ignoring small leaks and risking serious damage in the process — if your notice your chimney leaking during inclement weather, it’s time to schedule a professional roofing inspection.
Why Chimneys Are Susceptible To Leaking
How do chimney leaks develop in the first place?
There are 5 major reasons behind chimney leaks:
- Missing or damaged chimney cap
- Cracked chimney crown
- Flashing problems
- Leaky bricks
- Faulty chimney liner
One of the reasons is that, over time, chimneys tend to develop cracks and crevices that allow water to permeate them. Additionally, the sections of metal applied at the seams between the chimney and roof — called roof flashing — may come loose or break due to high winds and other inclement weather.
Improper chimney flashing installation can also open up your roof to early deterioration. Chimney leaks are the primary form of damage you will notice from a faulty chimney flashing installation. Instead of keeping rain and snow out of the roof seams, sub-par flashing allows moisture into the roof’s inner structure. Water seepage can cause mildew, mold, and premature aging of the roof.
To learn more about how chimneys develop leaks read: 5 Reasons Behind A Leaking Chimney
Handling Leaky Chimneys: Inspection & Repair Tips
So what can you do? Start by hiring a professional roofing contractor to inspect your structure then handle repairs promptly.
When your roofer arrives, he will inspect your chimney for any signs of damage:
- Broken bricks or stone
- Loose mortar joints
- Cracks around the chimney foundation
- Deteriorating flashing
After a thorough inspection, which will most likely include chimneys, vents, skylights, all areas of flashing, and your home’s drainage systems check, proper repairs will be needed.
For more tips on proper roofing inspection, check out: Roofing Inspection 101: Contractor’s 3-Step Checklist
Depending upon the extent of the damage and the cause of the leak, the roofer may seal stone or brick cracks and apply water repellant to prevent further leaks. If the chimney material is not damaged, the leak could be caused by flashing damage. Flashing is a type of metal placed around the chimney base and covered with shingles to prevent water infiltration. Some flashing can be repaired, but if it shows signs of rust or other weather wear, your contractor may need to remove shingles to install new flashing. This is not a do-it-yourself undertaking, since improper flashing installation could void your roof warranty.
Your local roofer should also check the cement chimney cap for cracks, breaks, or leak causes. If the cap or mortar joints are damaged because of structural shifts, your chimney may require masonry repair.
To learn more about chimney repair tips: Residential Roofing: 4 Steps To Chimney Leak Repair
We Handle Chimney Leak Repairs!
All Roofing Solutions is a family-owned and operated Delaware roofing repair contractor in business since 1998, based in Wilmington, DE. We specialize in residential roof leak repair services in Delaware and bordering Pennsylvania counties.
Whether you need a chimney, skylight, or valley leak repaired, we are fully licensed and insured and can handle all your roofing repair needs, large and small. Our goal is to deliver superb workmanship and outstanding customer service. We stand behind our work!
Family-owned and operated Delaware & Pennsylvania roofing contractor.- Fully licensed and insured.
- Over 25 years of experience with roofing & siding installation and repair.
- A+ rated BBB member
- Complimentary Extended Material warranty
- 30-year workmanship guarantee on full roof replacements
- Lien Waiver to protect the homeowners from material liens
- Own crew—no subcontractors!
- Full-service roofer handling all types of residential and commercial roofing, windows & siding projects.
- Most re-roofing projects are completed in one day.
- Because we are efficient we are able to offer very competitive prices compared to large contractors with bigger overhead.
- Each roofing/siding project includes a meticulously performed, post-roofing inspection. We want to make sure that your roof replacement is done correctly and that it meets your complete satisfaction.
- The company owner supervises all projects to ensure high-quality workmanship.
- Customer Satisfaction Guaranteed!
If your chimney is leaking or you suspect chimney damage, don’t wait to call All Roofing Solutions, your local Delaware roofing contractor with 20 years of experience in roofing repairs and roof replacement. We offer fast and free estimates and 24-hour emergency service.
To schedule your FREE repair estimate, call 302-725-ROOF (7663) in Delaware or 610-551-ROOF (7663) in Pennsylvania!