Like a sentinel guarding the palace, the crown protects the chimney from the elements. However, shifting foundations, along with the challenging New England weather, which includes long, icy, snowy winters and heavy summer rains, can damage this vital component. When cracks in the crown begin to appear, water can seep into the interior masonry walls, causing extensive water damage. That’s why homeowners across northern Massachusetts and southern New Hampshire trust the certified professionals at Sweepnman for expert chimney crown resurfacing and rebuilding.
Where is the Chimney Crown and What Does It Do?
The crown is the concrete surface that encloses the exposed flue pipe at the top of the chimney. Its sloped surface and drip edge diverts rain and snow away from the stack, keeping moisture, debris, and animals from damaging the flue and internal components. However, just like any other porous material, the crown is susceptible to cracking and storm damage, making annual inspections essential.
Common Causes of Chimney Crown Damage:
In MA and NH, chimney crowns are frequently subject to a variety of stressors that can result in damage, including:
- Freeze-Thaw Cycle: This is one of the most common causes of crown damage. When water seeps through minor cracks and freezes in cold weather, it widens those cracks further. The process repeats throughout the winter, slowly compromising the crown.
- Improper Construction: Many original crowns are built with leftover mortar rather than concrete, which lacks the strength to withstand seasonal weather changes.
- House Settling: This is a common occurrence in older homes. It can cause the entire chimney stack to shift slightly, creating stress fractures or fissures across the crown.
- Storm Damage: Storms or even a lightning strike can damage the drip edge, allowing water to run directly down the masonry, accelerating the deterioration of the bricks and mortar just below the crown.
Does Your Chimney Crown Need Repair? Look for These Signs:
While a chimney inspection every year is your best defense, contact Sweepnman as soon as possible if you notice any of the following warning signs:
- Missing Chimney Cap: A chimney cap is the crown’s first line of defense for protection against the damaging effects of rain, snow, and ice.
- Visible Cracks: Even a minor crack is an open invitation for moisture intrusion. Look for cracks running from the edge of the crown toward the flue opening.
- Crumbling Drip Edge: If the crown’s corners or drip edge are crumbling, eroding, or showing visible signs of damage, the crown’s integrity is compromised.
- Masonry Damage: Damage to the exterior brickwork below the crown is often a sign of moisture intrusion.
- Loose Flue Tiles: Small pieces of clay flue tile in your firebox could indicate damage to the crown or other components.
Chimney Crown Repairs
Whether your chimney crown needs resurfacing or rebuilding depends on the severity of the damage:
Resurfacing (Sealing):
For minor cracks, we typically apply CrownCoat®. This polymer-based sealant for crown resurfacing offers outstanding weather resistance properties.
Rebuilding:
When the damage to the crown is severe, such as significant gaps in the surface or a crumbling drip edge, rebuilding a proper crown is the best solution to protect the chimney. We’ll remove the old, failing crown and install a new one using high-quality materials, with a proper slope and drip edge for maximum weather protection.
Best Chimney Crown Resurfacing & Rebuilding Near Me
Don’t let a cracked crown get you down! Our certified chimney professionals provide quality chimney crown repairs, including resurfacing and rebuilding for long-lasting durability and peace of mind.
We proudly serve homeowners throughout the North Shore and Merrimack Valley areas, including Beverly, MA, Andover, MA, Rockport, MA, Portsmouth, NH, Concord, NH, and Nashua, NH.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment with a certified chimney sweep or request an estimate. We are fully insured and bonded, providing you with peace of mind. Ask about our affordable financing options!
