Chimney leaks are actually very common; and, in most cases, touching up the sealant around the flashing is all that’s really needed. But if the leak persists no matter what, it can simply be water migrating in through the masonry surface.
Both the bricks and mortar are very porous. In addition to causing water leaks inside, as the mortar absorbs the water, it expands. That is why you’ll often see cracking all along the mortar lines.
A good quality masonry sealer is the solution. It can be applied to the surface using a garden pump-up sprayer. The sealer keeps water from soaking into the pores, which effectively completely stops the leak.
It also protects the surface against dirt and stains, and even helps prevent that chalky white residue you see a lot of times on brick surfaces.
Danny Lipford is a home improvement expert and television personality who started his remodeling business, Lipford Construction, at the age of 21 in Mobile, Alabama. He gained national recognition as the host of the nationally syndicated television show, Today's Homeowner with Danny Lipford, which started as a small cable show in Mobile. Danny's expertise in home improvement has also led him to be a contributor to popular magazines and websites and the go-to source for advice on everything related to the home. He has made over 200 national television appearances and served as the home improvement expert for CBS's The Early Show and The Weather Channel for over a decade. Danny is also the founder of 3 Echoes Content Studio, TodaysHomeowner.com, and Checking In With Chelsea, a décor and lifestyle blog.
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