Chimney Waterproofing in Stuart, FL

Chimney waterproofing is a penetrating water repellent applied to the brick and mortar above the roof. It makes the masonry shed rain while letting moisture inside escape as vapor; paint and film sealers are not the same thing and can trap water.

First the chimney is checked and any cracked mortar, broken brick or crown damage is repaired. Then the masonry is cleaned and left to dry. Next a breathable water repellent is sprayed or brushed on at the rate the maker specifies. The crown and flashing get their own sealant where needed.

Mortar should be repointed where it is worn, then treated along with the brick using a breathable repellent. A film sealer on mortar alone traps moisture behind it. The goal is masonry that sheds rain and still dries out after a storm.

Waterproofing is worthwhile when the brick soaks up rain, shows white salt stains or stays dark long after a storm. A chimney with a good crown, cap and flashing and dense brick may not need it yet; we tell you which case yours is after the inspection.

A good silane or siloxane water repellent typically keeps working for several years before the brick starts to absorb rain again. Strong sun and heavy rain wear it faster. A simple water splash test on the brick during a yearly check shows when it is time to reapply.

Only if the water is coming through the brick itself. Leaks more often begin at the cap, the crown or the flashing, and a repellent does nothing for those parts. We find the source first, then recommend waterproofing only when wet masonry is part of the problem.