Does Your Masonry Chimney in Rutland Need Water-Repellent Treatment? We Can Help
We know how strong and durable brickwork can seem – it was the one material the Big Bad Wolf couldn’t “blow down” after all! That said, there’s one foe it doesn’t tend to do well against – water. If you’re a homeowner in Rutland with a masonry chimney, make sure it’s protected from rain, snow, and fluctuating temperatures by investing in masonry waterproofing services – and any necessary chimney repairs – with our team.
Book your appointment with a company that cares – call or schedule online with the Rutland Chimney crew today.
Do Chimneys Need a Special Kind of Water Repellent?
Yes, chimneys require a special kind of water repellent because of one big thing – vapor permeability.
Most ordinary sealants protect against water infiltration, but they also trap everything else inside the thing they’re protecting. A proper chimney water repellent, on the other hand, is specifically designed to be breathable, ensuring pre-absorbed water and fireplace fumes can still vent out – while still preventing new water from getting in.
This is one reason why trusting an expert for waterproofing services – as opposed to buying something from your local hardware store and doing it yourself – is so strongly recommended. Trusting us to apply a high-quality, breathable water repellent can extend the life of your chimney significantly, and we can keep checking up on things during your annual inspections.
Ready to book an appointment? We’re here for you – reach out now.
How Does Chimney Water Repellent Work?
When applied, the water repellent seeps into the porous surface of the chimney’s masonry. Unlike surface coatings, though, it doesn’t just sit on top…rather, it penetrates deeply into the bricks and mortar where the active ingredients, typically silanes or siloxanes, chemically bond with the masonry to create a hydrophobic (water-repellent) layer.
As we mentioned above, one of the key features of chimney water repellents is that they are breathable. This means that they allow water vapor already inside of the masonry to escape, preventing moisture from being trapped within. This is essential because trapped moisture can freeze and expand in cold weather, causing cracks or spalling in the masonry.
How Often Should Chimney Water Repellent Be Applied?
Chimney water-repellent treatment typically needs to be reapplied every 5 to 10 years when done professionally. Professional-grade products and application techniques tend to provide a longer-lasting barrier than DIY attempts, which need much more frequent reapplications.
Additionally, DIY applications might not achieve the same level of penetration or uniform coverage as a professional job, leading to reduced effectiveness over time.
Which brings us to another popular question…
Can I Apply Chimney Water Repellent Myself, or Should I Hire a Professional?
We always recommend hiring a professional to apply an industry-grade masonry waterproofing sealant. Here’s why:
- Proper Product Selection: Professionals have access to high-quality, commercial-grade water repellents that are more durable, long-lasting, and effective than many store-bought products.
- Expert Application: Applying water repellent is more than just pointing and spraying – it requires proper technique to ensure even coverage and deep penetration into the masonry.
- Thorough Inspection: Before applying the repellent, professionals often inspect the chimney for existing damage, such as cracks or deteriorated mortar, that needs to be repaired – applying waterproofing agents to pre-existing damage won’t do you much good.
- Longevity: A professionally applied water repellent typically lasts longer – often close to 10 years – compared to DIY applications, which may only last a few years, at most.
- Warranty Considerations: Many professionals offer warranties on their work, providing you with peace of mind knowing that if something goes wrong, it will be addressed.
Not to mention, working on a chimney involves heights and potentially dangerous conditions. Professionals are trained to work safely at these heights and have the necessary equipment to protect themselves, reducing the risk of accidents.
Make the right choice – hire our crew from the start. Reach out now to schedule.
Can Chimney Waterproofing Protect Against the Freeze/Thaw Cycle?
Yes – in fact, this is one of the main reasons we urge homeowners (especially here in the Rutland area) to make this investment. We’re no strangers to snow and cold weather during the winter months, so protecting your chimney accordingly is a must.
What is the freeze/thaw cycle?
The freeze/thaw cycle occurs when moisture seeps into the porous materials of the chimney, such as brick, mortar, or stone. When temperatures drop, the trapped moisture freezes and expands, causing the materials to crack or spall. Later on, when temperatures rise again, the ice melts, and the water can penetrate even deeper into the chimney structure.
Repeated freeze/thaw cycles can lead to significant damage over time, compromising the integrity of the chimney.
Will Chimney Waterproofing Prevent All Water Damage to My Chimney?
No – waterproofing alone will not sufficiently protect your chimney against water. Water can enter your chimney through a variety of entry points if you have rusted chimney caps, damaged chimney flashing, busted up crowns, and more. These areas, if compromised, will allow water to seep into your chimney, whether or not waterproofing has been applied.
Because moisture damage is such a big deal when it comes to chimneys, you need protection on multiple fronts. So, while waterproofing is an important part of your water prevention plan, it can’t do the job solo.
Don’t stress, though. At Rutland Chimney, we understand the importance of a comprehensive approach to chimney care. Our team is thoroughly trained to safeguard these vulnerable areas, identifying and correcting even the smallest imperfections along the way. By repairing these issues and eliminating weak spots, we help ensure that water is driven away from your chimney for good – providing you with lasting protection and peace of mind.
Protect Your Masonry: Work With Us
Protecting your masonry chimney from the harsh effects of moisture is crucial for maintaining its structural integrity and ensuring it functions safely for years to come. If you’re concerned that your Rutland home and chimney might be vulnerable to water damage, our expert team is here to help.
With our professional water-repellent treatment, you can prevent costly repairs and enjoy peace of mind knowing your chimney is well-protected against the elements. Don’t wait until the damage is done – contact us today to schedule your water-repellent treatment.
Having us replace or install a chimney cap is one of the most cost-effective chimney repairs we offer. Check with us for more information today.