Can You Waterproof Chimney Brick?

Most masonry chimneys are designed with bricks or stone and some cement or mortar to bond the materials. You’d think these structures would be completely impenetrable and, for the most part, they are. A well-built chimney can last many years, even while withstanding all mother nature tries to throw at it.

However, the one thing that can compromise the integrity of these materials is water. Bricks are surprisingly porous, and constant exposure to the elements weakens them significantly, allowing water to gradually seep through. In the winter time, as this water freezes and thaws, it can cause the brick and mortar to crack and deteriorate.

So what can you do? Can you waterproof your chimney? Yes – and Highpoint Chimney Services would be happy to help with that. 

Why Is Waterproofing Chimney Brick Important?

What Are Other Ways To Prevent Chimney Leak Damage?

Earlier, we mentioned that a well-built chimney can last many years. But protecting your chimney is also essential in extending its lifespan and ensuring long-lasting durability. Here are a few ways you can further protect your chimney and fireplace from moisture penetration.

• Install a Chimney Cap: This is the simplest way to keep moisture from penetrating your chimney. Without a chimney cap, more than just moisture – think animals, twigs, leaves, debris, and more – has clear access to your home. Invest in this first line of defense and have it professionally fitted and installed to ensure quality results.
• Tuckpointing: This repair technique is used to replace damaged mortar with new, stronger mortar. Once mortar begins to flake, crumble, and decay, moisture is able to creep into the masonry and cause more extensive damage. This can eventually cause the whole chimney to lean or even collapse. Have this repair done as soon as possible to avoid compromising the structural integrity of your chimney.
• Spalling Repair: Repeated freezing and thawing causes bricks to crack, and if you neglect to address the issue in a timely manner, the cracks only continue to get larger – this is known as spalling. To repair this, we would chisel away any of the damaged brick, fill the hole with mortar, and carefully align new bricks to match the surrounding brickwork.
• Flashing: The chimney flashing is the metal portion located between the roof and chimney. This acts as a watertight seal, ensuring all rain that runs off your roof is directed away from the base of the chimney. Unfortunately, it’s not uncommon for flashing to rust over time and become the cause of leaks. Have your flashing installed and checked regularly by a professional chimney technician. 
• Crown Repair: A chimney crown is the flat surface at the top of the chimney that should be made of concrete. Now, sometimes, even though it shouldn’t be, it is made of mortar, which means it breaks down fast. Because chimney crowns get more exposure to the elements than any other part of the chimney, it is important to fill the cracks or replace the crown all together before applying a chimney crown specific coating. 
• Waterproofing: Because water penetration is the number one cause of deterioration and damage in chimneys, waterproofing is a surefire way to help prevent experiencing any problems in the future. Sealing your chimney with a vapor-permeable solution is one of the simplest, most affordable ways to prevent water from penetrating the bricks.

Should I Hire a Professional or Can I Waterproof My Chimney Brick Myself?

Reach Out Now

Contact us today! Call 908-864-4114 to speak with a professional about your chimney and fireplace needs. You can also schedule your next appointment online.