Bricks are a popular choice for chimneys. They are sturdy, can withstand heat, and are visually appealing – to name a few perks. That said, we get plenty of customers who think that chimney bricks are indestructible since they can withstand the extreme temperatures associated with those cozy fires we all love.
The truth is that while they stand up to quite a bit, they don’t fare so well against water. Lucky for homeowners in Southwest Missouri and Northwest Arkansas, Ozark Stove and Chimney is here for all your chimney needs, including chimney waterproofing.
How Does Chimney Waterproofing Work?
Having your chimney waterproofed is pretty straightforward, especially when you choose Ozark Stove and Chimney for the job. The waterproofing process involves a special sealant being applied to the different parts of your exterior chimney, with the end goal of creating a barrier that repels moisture from being absorbed.
We use different products depending on what your chimney is made and how porous that material is. Brick porosity levels can vary, which is why it’s important to have professionals – like our expert technicians – handle your chimney’s waterproofing.
Why Is Chimney Waterproofing So Important?
Your chimney lives outside, meaning it is constantly exposed to all of the elements. Harsh weather and moisture can take its toll on the structure of your chimney, and if your chimney starts to deteriorate, you’re more susceptible to leaks and water damage. And trust us when we say this is not something you want.
Leaky chimneys can bring bigger problems like damage to your ceilings, walls, and flooring. In an effort to keep that from happening, we recommend that all our customers have their chimneys professionally waterproofed by our experienced technicians. Another added benefit is that this service helps extend the life of your chimney, which will then save you money in the long run.
Can I Waterproof My Chimney if It’s Already Leaking?
If you have already noticed signs that your chimney is leaking, call us right away. We’ll have to repair whatever is causing the leak before we can waterproof your chimney.
Don’t worry, though. Our technicians have plenty of experience with leaky chimneys and will be able to get your chimney repaired and waterproofed in no time. We believe knowledge is power, so be on the lookout for any of the following signs that could indicate a potential leak:
- Rusty fireplace components
- Wet, musty smell
- Any dripping or trickling noises
- Water marks or staining around the fireplace or stove
- Efflorescence (white residue marks left behind from salt absorption) on brickwork
- Rust on any of the components at the top of your chimney
- Rotted woodwork surrounding the fireplace
- Signs of mold growth or mildew formation
- Water pooling inside of the firebox
- Deteriorated brick and mortar joints
In our opinion, prevention is key, which is why we recommend that all our customers have us waterproof their chimney. We also recommend that you have Ozark Stove and Chimney sweep and inspect your chimney at least once a year. This is a great way for us to catch any potential issues early on.
Chimney Waterproofing FAQ
Can I waterproof my own chimney?
This is a question we get a lot. We also get plenty of calls from homeowners who attempted this and quickly realized they were in over their heads. Trust us when we say this is a job better left to professionals, like our technicians here at Ozark Stove and Chimney.
How long does chimney waterproofing last?
It can vary depending on how well it was done, the products used, and the material of the chimney. Typically we recommend having it redone every 10 years. That said, DIY attempts tend to last much shorter of a time, so you’ll have to re-do the job more often.
How much does chimney waterproofing cost?
This is another answer that can vary. Chimneys are unique from home to home, and we want to make sure that we can tailor your waterproofing product to be the best for your type of chimney. The best way to get an accurate cost estimate is to have us out to look things over first.
Count On Ozark Stove and Chimney for Waterproofing Services
When considering if waterproofing your chimney is worth it, just weigh the costs of repairing drywall, flooring, structural pieces of your home, etc. and see which seems like the better bargain. Make the right choice and book your chimney waterproofing services with us today.
Give us a call at 417-201-6585 to see how we can help with all of your chimney needs, or you can request an appointment with us online. We look forward to serving you.