Twin Cities Chimney Crown Repair & Installation
A chimney crown serves as a roof for your chimney. Constructed of concrete, it provides a solid barrier against water infiltration, which will erode the chimneys masonry structure with time. The new crown is built with a sloped design that overhangs by 2 inches off of the exterior of the chimney, allowing rainwater to be channeled away from the flue openings and keep rainwater from running directly down the outside of the chimney structure which can lead to deterioration within the bricks and mortar. Most homeowners are unaware of the condition of their chimney crown and it is recommended to do an annual chimney inspection to catch problems early.
Chimney crowns that are showing signs of damage and are left unattended can cause problems ranging from expensive to catastrophic. If water is allowed to bypass the crown and seep into the chimneys bricks, it will freeze in the cold weather and expand in warmer temperatures causing further decomposition.
Chimney Crown Sealing
When cracking is a minor or moderate, often a waterproof sealant is the ideal remedy. The first step is to grind out any cracks and fill with a polyurethane caulking material that is strong and durable and it can stretch without causing any further crown damage. This along with a professional crown sealant will be applied which will then block water from entering the compromised areas and restore safe operation to your chimney. Chimney crown sealing should only be done by chimney professionals who are experienced in chimney crown repairs.
Chimney Crown Rebuilding
In cases of severe damage, chimney crown rebuilding may be called for. Assuming there hasn't been any significant damage to the chimney structure itself, chimney crown rebuilding is a fairly straightforward operation that will give you a brand new crown to protect your chimney for years to come. Only an inspection by a professional, experienced technician can determine exactly how much damage exists and where it has happened. If more extensive chimney rebuilding services are necessary, our crews are trained to get the job done right.
Keep in mind that you should never rebuild your chimney crown with mortar. This material will absorb water and will deteriorate at a much faster rate. We only use a high-quality, commercial grade cement when rebuilding chimney crowns.
When it comes to your chimney, you should never put off needed repairs. Any kind of existing damage can turn into an expensive and dangerous situation. Chimneys have many components such as, flue liners, chimney crown, chimney caps, chimney flashing and the bricks-and-mortar from which the chimney was built. Only a professional chimney repair company can find areas of compromise and have them repaired or rebuilt in a way that ensures the safety and integrity of your chimney.
If it's been a while since your chimney was the last looked at, call Suburban Chimney Solutions today for a complete annual inspection. We are the number one chimney crown repair company in Eagan, MN.
