What are the most common chimney issues in a home?
Short answer. The most common chimney problems are leaking flashing where the chimney meets the roof, cracked crowns, missing or rusted caps, worn mortar and spalling brick, and creosote or damaged flue liners inside. In many Georgia homes with factory-built fireplaces, the issue is a rotting wood chase or a rusted metal chase cover instead of brick.
Where the roof meets the chimney
- Failed flashing. Step flashing and counterflashing that has rusted, pulled out of the mortar, or been caulked over instead of properly installed. The most common chimney leak.
- No cricket. Wide chimneys without a cricket trap water and debris on the uphill side.
The top of the chimney
- Cracked crown. Lets water into the core of the masonry.
- Missing or damaged cap. Lets rain, birds, squirrels and leaves into the flue.
- Rusted chase cover. On wood-framed chases, a rusted or flat metal cover pools water and leaks into the chase.
The structure
- Worn mortar and spalling brick. Water soaks in, freezes in colder spots, and the brick face flakes off.
- Efflorescence. White staining that signals water moving through the masonry.
- Leaning or separating. A chimney pulling away from the house points to footing problems and needs a structural assessment.
- Rotten chase framing or siding. Common on chases clad in wood or fiber cement where water gets behind trim.
Inside the flue
- Creosote buildup. A fire hazard in wood-burning fireplaces. Annual inspection is the usual recommendation.
- Cracked or missing liner. Lets heat and gases reach combustible framing.
- Condensation. Gas appliances venting into an oversized or unlined flue can soak the masonry from inside.
Who handles what
Roofers handle flashing, crickets and the shingles around the chimney. Chimney sweeps inspect and service flues, caps and liners. Masons repair brick, mortar and crowns.