Chimney & Gutter Care

Chimneys

These are the 2 most common reasons that cause chimneys to leak:

Flashing: This is the metal that is used around the base of the chimney that creates a waterproof seal to protect your chimney and roof from water damage and penetration. Two types of flashing are used. A base or step flashing is an L shape that is attached to the roof and bent along the side of the chimney. The next piece of flashing is called counter flashing and its purpose is to cover the top of the step flashing and not allow water to enter behind it. Counter flashing is generally the part that you see from the ground and is usually set into the masonry wall. Flashing around chimneys can rust through, particularly at the 90-degree bend on the chimney’s downhill side.

Water Infiltration: Bricks chimneys are porous and need to breathe. That is why chimney specialists will use products specifically designed for chimneys and exterior masonry during sealing. Some people think water can’t get in if they have a chimney cap on. These caps act as precisely that. You would get pretty wet if you wore only a cap in the rain. Chimneys must endure all the elements, and bricks absorb water like a sponge. More often than not, leaks in attics and walls against chimneys are simply from bricks absorbing water and shedding water below the roof line. Small cracks will form that you can only see up close. Water will enter these small cracks, and when subjected to freezing temperatures, these cracks will enlarge. Even if your chimney is lined, the bricks are the outer support structure and are part of the liner system.

Chimneys that are ready to withstand the elements have a good-screened stainless or copper chimney cap, a sealed top crown, permeable waterproofing application ( reapplied every five years ), and proper flashing.

Gutters

Gutters are designed to move water away from your home. Clogged gutters can cause extensive damage to your home, leading to roof leaks during heavy rain. When water remains in the gutter, it settles against the roof. This water can cause your roof to begin to rot and, over time, can weaken the integrity of your roof. Eventually, water will find its way into your home. Leading to costly damage on the exterior and interior. Water flowing over the sides could lead to landscape erosion, and foundation damage since downspouts are not moving water away as designed. Gutters should be installed at the bottom of any slope. Flat roof gutters utilize sloping and gutters to keep water from pooling on your roof.

Gutters that are ready to withstand the elements are mounted level and rest behind the drip edge to stop water from getting behind them, they are kept clear of debris, and have gutter screens installed when necessary. Gutter specialists recommend cleaning your gutters at least once in the fall and once in the winter. Houses that are situated in areas that have more tree coverage need to be cleaned more often.

You can depend on McLeran Roofing to diagnose your issues and give you the resources to correct the above problems and more.