The crown on top of your chimney is a crucial element of your funnel system. The concrete roof is an umbrella to protect the whole chimney and brick from water damage, debris, and unwanted organisms. Although you may be unaware of the damage because you don’t see it, you must look for particular signs to save yourself from spending a fortune on repairs.
When you spot salt crystallizations on the concrete or natural stone surfaces, you should be concerned because this is a sign of efflorescence. If the crown develops cracks due to water damage, moisture might start entering, causing numerous problems with your chimney system. Another sign that proves you need to repair your crown is damaged mortar joints because of water and seasonal expansion.
Here are the primary indications your chimney crown needs repairs:
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Evidence You Need to Repair Your Chimney Crown
1. Efflorescence on the Crown
If you spot white stains on your funnel that look like white crystals, this could indicate efflorescence. The spots you frequently observe on brick, concrete, or natural stone surfaces signal moisture issues. It always starts with a small amount, but if you ignore it, it becomes excessive and raises numerous red flags.
Efflorescence occurs due to loose flashing or faulty flue liner, facilitating quick brick-and-mortar damage. With such evidence, it is wise to contact a certified chimney expert to repair the flashing or install a brand-new liner around the crown to prevent water damage.
2. Cracks in Your Chimney Crown
The crown protects the chimney from water damage. Because of its position at the funnel, this element prevents water and snow from penetrating the building. However, moisture can enter if the crown is cracked or damaged, which can cause multiple problems.
It will be difficult to notice the damage from the ground, so you must climb the roof to see if your crown is cracked. If you find a crack, you must replace the filler immediately to prevent moisture problems from extending and destroying your property.
3. Damaged Mortar Joints
Because of seasonal expansion, water, and ice, motor joints weaken over time. As the mortar deteriorates, moisture affects the mansory, causing more harm to the chimney crown.
If left unchecked, the chimney eventually breaks down and collapses. To repair your mortar joints, seek professional assistance from a reputable chimney company.
4. Spalling Bricks and Rust
Sometimes, you are chilling in your house when you hear something popping off your roof, and when you go out to check, you find broken bricks. When you climb up your roof to check what is happening, you find moisture issues on your chimney with missing bricks. The cracking, crumbling, and flaking bricks you see result from the expansion and contraction of the mansory.
These signs on your chimney crown prove that you should repair the system. Check the chimney cap and flashing for rust because this could cause damage. Most people recognize rust problems once the system stops working, and you should not be one of them.
Conclusion
Efflorescence is a big sign that you need to repair your chimney crown. Left unchecked, it could raise multiple red flags. Pay attention to cracks and damaged mortar joints to prevent moisture from entering your building and causing damage.