Cracked Chimney Crown - What You Need to Know and Do?
Having a fireplace in your home is a cozy way of creating warmth and ambiance during cold months. But what happens when you notice that your chimney crown has cracks? If you are a homeowner, you should take note of this problem since a damaged chimney crown can lead to leakages, structural issues, and even pests. In this post, you will learn practical steps that you need to take when you discover a cracked chimney crown, whether you are a DIY enthusiast or prefer to hire a professional.
Understand what a chimney crown is
A chimney crown refers to a masonry or concrete cover that sits on top of your chimney. It acts as the first line of defense against rainfall, debris, and other external elements that could harm your chimney or home. If you have a metal chimney, then you might not have a crown; instead, there is a cap that covers the opening. It's important to understand that without this crown or cap, your chimney is left vulnerable to water damage, which can result in costly repairs.
Inspect the extent of the crack
Before you can undertake any repairs, it's important to assess the extent of the damage. You can do this fairly easily by climbing up on your roof and examining the chimney crown. You must identify any visible cracks and their size, as this will determine if a simple repair can be done or if the chimney crown needs to be fully replaced.
Repair or replace the chimney crown
Depending on the severity of the damage, you can choose to repair or replace the chimney crown. If the cracks aren't too severe and there are no signs of moisture damage, you can repair them by filling the cracks with a sealant that is formulated for chimneys. However, if the cracks are large or numerous, it's time to replace the entire crown. Make sure you hire a professional chimney sweep to undertake this task.
Prevention and maintenance
To prevent future cracks or other types of chimney damage, it's important to maintain your chimney by getting it inspected and cleaned annually. During these inspections, make sure the chimney sweep examines not just the flue but also the chimney crown. If you know that your location receives heavy rainfall or snow, you can install a chimney cover to help divert or deflect water.
DIY or professional services
It's important to carefully consider whether to tackle repairs yourself or hire a professional. If you're a DIY enthusiast, you can repair minor cracks in the chimney crown. However, if you have no experience dealing with chimneys, it's best to hire a professional chimney sweep to handle the repairs. A professional can not only identify the extent of the damage but also may provide a warranty on their work.
In conclusion, a cracked chimney crown may seem like a small issue, but it can lead to significant problems if left unchecked. As a responsible homeowner, it's essential to learn how to inspect, repair, or replace your chimney crown. By following the tips shared above, you can prevent further damage to your chimney as well as protect your home from the expensive repairs that often come with water damage. Whether you're a DIY enthusiast or a homeowner looking to hire a professional, chimney crown repair or replacement is something that is better done sooner rather than later.
Learn more about chimney repair today.