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You are here: Home / Masonry Services / Masonry Water Problems

Masonry Water Problems

May 18, 2011 by amchim

Protect Your Investment

There are approximately 40 million masonry chimneys in North America and the most common problems with these structures is water penetration. Water causes over 1 billion dollars in damage annually in the form of staining, loss of insulation value, freeze-thaw damage, deterioration, and ultimately structural failure. All new and existing masonry chimneys are susceptible to water damage and, even if repaired, chimneys will continue to deteriorate if they are not protected.

As Cincinnati Ohio’s masonry contractors, we are experts in masonry restoration and chimney protection.

Water Damage Can Be Prevented

Chimneys are highly exposed to the elements and, if left unprotected, are susceptible to structural deterioration. It is important to address this problem before serious damage occurs.

Superior Technology

ChimneySaver® comes with a 10 year warranty and is the first water repellent specifically developed to protect chimneys from the severe weather conditions to which they are exposed. ChimneySaver is a WATER REPELLENT – not a water sealer. The difference could save you hundreds, or even thousands of dollars in repairs because sealers can actually damage masonry. Unlike waterproofing sealers that remain on the surface and trap water vapors, ChimneySaver penetrates deep enough to protect masonry from destructive water penetration.

ChimneySaver contains patented siloxanes small enough to penetrate most masonry pores up to ¼ inch or more. These special siloxanes form strong bonds with the silica in masonry and concrete. Because of this bonding process, one application of ChimneySaver provides up to ten times the water repellent protection of typical sealers.

100% Breathable

Moisture from a variety of sources is always present in masonry and concrete. Sealers and silicone coatings form a water resistant surface film which traps water vapors. If these vapors cannot escape, they will contribute to spalling, scalling, deterioration, and freeze-thaw damage. ChimneySaver is 100% vapor permeable – a non film-forming water repellent that penetrates and lines masonry pores. ChimneySaver offers the best protection because it releases water vapors and effectively reduces water absorption.

Superior Value

The superior value and added benefits of protecting your masonry with ChimneySaver® are obvious when comparisons are made with popular retail brands of water sealers.

Long-Term Protection

ChimneySaver is an investment in long-term protection that will help prevent expensive reconstruction. No water repellent, however, is a substitute for good construction and workmanship. The first step in preventing water damage is to make necessary repairs to structural cracks, damaged crowns, flashings, deteriorated bricks, and mortar joints. The second step is to protect porous masonry from further water penetration by applying ChimneySaver water repellent. Protection is especially needed when a new chimney liner has been installed. If repairs and preventive measures are not taken, the old chimney will continue to deteriorate around the new liner.

Use On All Masonry Surfaces

Not just for chimneys, ChimneySaver® water repellent is the ideal choice for protecting all residential and commercial above-grade masonry. ChimneySaver is the best solution for a variety of exterior masonry applications including, patios, walkways, pool decks, and wall systems.

Addressing Water Concerns

At American Chimney and Masonry will do everything to the best of our knowledge and experience to help the customer resolve any existing water problems. However, we would like to stress that we cannot guarantee that any repairs we do will stop the water problem.

With your knowledge and agreement, we always attempt to resolve water problems using a process of elimination starting with the smallest and least expensive repair and gradually eliminate possible entry points along the way. When in doubt, we suggest that the customer apply water to the chimney beginning at the lowest point and gradually working up to helping pinpoint where water is entering the chimney. Among the possible entry points to be checked are:

  1. Chimney Cap
  2. Crown Wash
  3. Brick and Mortar Joints
  4. Shoulders
  5. Flashing
  6. Corbels
  7. Furnace and Water Heater Flues
  8. Internal Condensation Problem
  9. Foundation, Downspouts, Drain Tile
  10. Roof

These are among the most common points of entry and, using our professional opinions, we hope to resolve the water problem as inexpensively and orderly as possible.

Wanting to solve your water problem yourself? No problem, you can buy ChimneySaver products online.

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