How’s the brick of your chimney stack looking? Is it damaged, cracked, and crumbling? Water is, by far, the biggest contributor to chimney damage and deterioration

At the top of the chimney, the crown, a cement slab, seals the deal and prevents water entry. But when the crown cracks, deteriorates, wears thin, or just doesn’t do its job because of poor construction, water flows to the scene and quickly gets to work destroying the chimney. Also, keeping the flue free of obstructions and moisture is one of the best and most important things you can do for your chimney system, and when you choose a quality chimney cap or top-sealing damper, you can expect a lifetime of protection.

The purpose of flashing on a masonry or manufactured chimney is to complete the transition of the interior chimney to the exterior chimney system as it passes through the roof. Without flashing, this area would be incredibly vulnerable to leaks and water damage. Unfortunately, over the years, chimney flashing may be torn away from the chimney or roof or corrode and may allow water into the home.