What You Should Know About Waterproofing Your Chimney

When it comes to maintaining the safety of your home, there’s no job more important than waterproofing your chimney. Waterproofing your chimney will protect against water damage and ensure the structure remains safe and intact for years. 

With the right supplies and a bit of DIY know-how, waterproofing your chimney is easy and can be accomplished in a few simple steps. This article will walk you through the process and provide tips for getting the job done right.

The Right Waterproofing Product

Before investing in a waterproofing product, you should be aware that the lower the price, the less effective the protection it will provide. One well-known brand is not expensive, but its performance is limited as it will lose its effectiveness when exposed to UV rays from the sun.

If you’re looking for a product to protect your masonry, poly siloxanes or silanes are a great choice. These products don’t use solids to fill up the pores of the masonry but instead create an electrostatic charge that water can’t penetrate. 

This ensures that any moisture already present in the masonry can escape, preventing any new water from entering. These products can be a bit more expensive, but they are well worth the investment.

Sealing Brick Chimney

Let’s begin with the fact that nearly all people reading this own a brick chimney. The key to waterproofing is the permeability of the material being protected, because you don’t waterproof materials that don’t let water through, such as steel or vinyl. 

Compared to other materials, like cinder blocks, bricks are usually less porous. Still, there is variation in the porosity of the brick itself.

When waterproofing a chimney, it is important to take extra precautions to ensure it is properly done. Doing the job twice is the best way to ensure the job is done correctly. 

It may cost more, but it is worth it. If the job needs to be done a second time, don’t be too hard on the contractor, as it can happen to anyone. Special attention should be paid when getting the job done again.

How Long Does Chimney Waterproofing Last

The length of time that chimney waterproofing lasts depends on a few factors. The first is the type of material used for the waterproofing. Some materials, such as asphalt-based sealants, can last up to 10 years. Other materials, such as elastomeric coatings, can last even longer. The second factor is the quality of the workmanship. Poorly applied waterproofing can be ineffective and need to be redone much sooner.

The third factor is the environment in which the chimney is located. The waterproofing may not last as long if the chimney is in a very wet or humid area. In addition, if the chimney is exposed to a lot of direct sunlight, the waterproofing may degrade faster.

Finally, the amount of maintenance done to the chimney can affect the lifespan of the waterproofing. The waterproofing may last longer if the chimney is regularly inspected and maintained. Regular inspections will also help to identify any problems before they become too severe.

The Bottomline

Waterproofing a chimney is an important step in protecting the structural integrity of your home. It is relatively easy and requires only a few basic tools and materials. 

Following the steps outlined in this article, any homeowner can successfully waterproof their chimney and ensure their home is protected against water damage. With regular maintenance, waterproofing your chimney can help you prevent costly repairs in the future.

Red Robin Masonry is a trusted chimney repair. We offer masonry services, such as brickwork, chimney work, and more. Get in touch with us.