This chimney is cracked, loose and crumbling due to extensive saturation decay to the brick masonry cells. During saturation, this chimney has gone through extensive expansion and contraction during freezing temperatures. These cracks can cause a leak into your home.
The state of this chimney is due to multiple factors, including: lack of a proper chimney cap and a lack of a water seal treatment. This chimney has become heavily saturated and the bricks and mortar joints have been extensively damaged due to the saturation decay.
A proper chimney cap is one that shelters and protects the entire masonry crown footprint and all terminations, with a screen to keep our pests and debris.
A masonry chimney is a clay porous structure that absorbs water and becomes saturated in the Pacific Northwest climate. In this saturated state, masonry decay is accelerated. It is regular exterior building maintenance to apply a water sealant to any masonry structure every 10 years. With this water seal application and the recommended repairs, we guarantee no leaking to occur.
Due to the structural damage to this chimney, our recommended repair is to take this chimney down to the roof line and rebuild using new Red Roman bricks. Build a new crown with three new 8″x 12″ flue tiles. Also to install new black roof and masonry counter flashing with proper ice and water shield application.
Have a chimney repair need?
Need your chimney swept?
Call Portland Fireplace and Chimney today!
503-758-4710
