How Much To Repair Leaking Chimney?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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According to 2017 averages across the country, homeowners may spend anywhere from $85 to $1,600 on fireplace repair work of all kinds. Water leak repairs along the roofline and chimney crown repair can cost anywhere from

$150 to $350

on average.

How much does it cost to waterproof a chimney?

Masters Services Certified Chimney Professionals strongly recommend that every masonry chimney be waterproofed. Every chimney eventually leaks, so preventative measures are essential before water damage becomes a problem. Average cost for chimney waterproofing is

$150 – $250

.

How much does it cost to permanently seal a chimney?

Sealing a chimney can cost between $20 and $60 for sealant you’ll apply yourself and

between $200 and $400

for a professional company to seal your chimney. Price also depends on your chimney’s size, if you want it waterproofed or not, and ease of accessibility.

How much does it cost to repair chimney top?

Fixing the chimney crown itself can be anywhere from between

$150 to $300

on average. In contrast, a full replacement can cost you between $220 to $2000, a steep increase. Leaving a crown on that requires repair can go so far as to damage the fireplace, requiring a replacement for that as well.

Why does chimney leak when it rains?

Structural damage to the chimney itself

One of the most common reasons for rain to leak into a chimney is

physical damage or wear and tear to the chimney

. The portion of your chimney that extends outside of your home faces near constant exposure to the elements, including rain, snow, high wind, and sun exposure.

Where do chimneys usually leak?

Chimney Leaks Commonly Found

in Attics

Staining on the exposed chimney in the attic often reveals which side of the chimney water begins its travel to other areas. Look for stains on the rafters close to the chimney as well as insulation with water damage on the attic floor.

Is waterproofing a chimney worth it?

Waterproofing your chimney is a simple and easy task that will extend the life of your chimney for years and will protect against expensive repairs. Chimney leaks are a frustrating problem for many homeowners;

waterproofing your chimney is the best way to solve chimney leaking problems

.

How do I find a water leak in my chimney?

  1. Condensation. If you notice that there is condensation present in the fireplace, this may be a sign that your chimney is leaking. …
  2. Sound of Dripping Water. …
  3. Moisture. …
  4. Water. …
  5. Leaks Staining Wall. …
  6. Musty/Damp Odours. …
  7. Cracked Masonry/Interior Plaster. …
  8. Damaged Flashing.

How long does chimney waterproofing last?

So for optimum performance, waterproofing should be re-applied

every five years

. However, it is highly recommended homeowners have a chimney inspection before waterproofing a chimney to determine the extent of repairs, if necessary, to spalling or missing bricks.

How much does it cost to repoint a brick chimney?

Repointing a chimney costs $8 to $30 per square foot, or

$500 to $2,500 on average

. The cost to repoint a chimney is $20 to $50 per row, depending on the size, height, brick condition, mortar damage, roof slope, and accessibility. Repointing two-story or complex chimney stacks costs up to $5,000 to $7,000.

How much does it cost to replace flashing around chimney?

Typically, the cost to replace chimney flashing ranges from

$300 to $1,500

, while repairing chimney flashing averages between $200 and $500. For larger chimneys made of stone or brick that require flank flashing and its more extensive installation process, expect to pay up to $2,000.

Should a chimney be sealed?

Sealing a Chimney Causes More Problems Than it Solves.

Plain and simple,

DO NOT seal off a chimney or fireplace because you will get a flue full of condensation problems

! Even when your fireplace is blocked off airtight you’ll still end up with “hidden” water issues.

How much does a concrete chimney cap cost?

Material Average Price for Prefab (Installed) Average Price for Custom (Installed) Concrete

$300 – $400

$390 – $520

Do roofers install chimney caps?

Capping an unused chimney is a wise decision to maintain and protect the value of a residential property.

Typically, the tradespeople who fit caps are roofers and chimney sweeps

.

How often should you repoint a chimney?

“Tuckpointing” is actually a verb and describes the process of repairing mortar joints, this is a common chimney repair service and usually needs to be done on all chimney masonry

every 30-50 years

.

Can water leak through brick chimney?

If you notice water leaking through your chimney but you know everything else is in good condition, then

your brick and mortar joints are most likely the culprit

. You must get them repaired as soon as possible because if the leaking continues, your chimney’s structural integrity is at stake.

Why does my brick chimney leak?

Brick Chimney Leaks


The softer and more porous the brick, the more likely it is to absorb moisture to cause a leaky chimney

. Mortar joints can also be another problem area. Many times, the mortar mix was made with too much sand, causing it to soak up water like a sponge.

Can hear dripping in chimney?

In case you hear dripping from your fireplace when it rains,

it could indicate that rain is getting its way down your chimney

. You should put an end to this, or the metal firebox within your fireplace might rust, inducing a fire risk.

Why is my fireplace chimney leaking?


Missing or damaged chimney cap

. Damaged chimney flashing. Damaged or deteriorated masonry mortar. Damaged chimney crown.

How often should I seal my brick chimney?

Ideally, when done properly, and when applied in the right amount, this chimney sealant should last roughly

15 to 20 years

. On the other hand, there are some professionals who say that waterproofing should never be done.

How do you seal an old brick chimney?

Can I use Flex Seal on my chimney?


Flex Seal will work on roofs, gutters, skylights, windowsills, flashings, downspouts, foundations, awnings, chimneys, vent pipes, RV’s, campers, trailers

. It can be applied to wood, copper and other metals, concrete, masonry, glass, fabric, plastics and much more.

David Martineau
Author
David Martineau
David is an interior designer and home improvement expert. With a degree in architecture, David has worked on various renovation projects and has written for several home and garden publications. David's expertise in decorating, renovation, and repair will help you create your dream home.