Some chimney stacks can be easily repaired and waterproofed. Some are a bit more difficult and requires specific expertise. With some chimney repairs, additional precautions against leaks and water damage must be taken. Because of the way the masonry was constructed, some chimneys develop leaks quickly. These chimneys’ original installation did not include any safeguards to protect the house from porous masonry. At this point, we must implement further waterproofing safeguards.
This was true of the chimney we repaired close to Camelford.
The chimney stack had to be completely removed below the roof line. Then, two lead-made, water-tight water trays were installed. The brickwork is then given weep-vents so that water accumulating in these water trays can drain out of the chimney stack as opposed to soaking the brickwork. Rain can leak into your home’s ceiling and attic if the bricks become saturated because they can no longer hold water. The wet bricks simply let in all the rain because there is no water tray to collect the water.
Following the installation of the water trays, lead flashing is installed beneath each tray to allow water to quickly drain from the roof without accumulating at the base of the chimney.
You must ensure that your chimney is watertight and that additional safeguards, such as a water tray, flashing, and weep-vents, are in place in light of the recent spate of wet weather.
If your chimney leaks, why not get in touch to find out more about the repairs we can do.