FAQ:  Leaking Chimney? –
How to Know, What to Do

What are the signs of a leaking chimney?

The most common signs are water in the attic, moisture around
the base of the chimney, moisture on the ceiling around,
or inside the fireplace, or in the basement.

If you have a slab foundation, you might also see moisture
on wall plaster, or on the side of the chimney.

If there is a leaking chimney, what’s the easiest,
quickest way to fix it?

A chimney flashing kit, available from roofing contractors, is all
that’s needed to repair a chimney leak if found soon enough.

How costly is a typical repair for a leaking chimney?

It can cost as little as $100. But if the leak is migrating, and getting
worse, it can eventually cause thousands of dollars in damage. 

Does a leaking chimney cause energy loss?

This is one thing you don’t have to worry about. 
A leaking chimney mostly causes property damage.

What kind of property damage?

A leaking chimney can easily damage plaster walls and ceilings. 
House inspectors look carefully for leaks, because they are a
telltale warning of other issues, including mold.

What other chimney-related items do
inspectors look for?

Flashing systems that are “home-made,” even if the contractor
did the work, are also reportable on inspection forms, because of
their potential for causing problems later.  Also, if there is a leaking
chimney, an inspector will also look for signs of insect infestation.

Insect infestation?

Yes, many nesting insects are attracted to moist wood in the roof
or ceiling joists, and this is what occurs with a leaking chimney. 

The roof on this house is just a few years old. 
Why do we have a leaking chimney?

It's possible the roofer did not re-flash the chimney when the
new roof was installed.  This is always a bad idea.  New
flashing should always be installed with a new roof. 

Can a leaking chimney result from improper flashing?

Absolutely. Plywood rot is likely if the chimney was flashed
improperly, or with a “home-made” system. 

If we have to replace the flashing, what’s the best material to use?

Some flashing is made from galvanized steel, which eventually
rusts, particularly in costal areas. We recommend a flashing kit
that uses aluminum or copper. 

Could flashing conceal a leaking chimney?

MOHECO PRODUCTS COMPANY
26835 West Seven Mile Road
Redford, Michigan 48240
888.814.3721 • 313.531.5630
fax: 313.531.0480
email: sales@moheco.com

© 2011 by Moheco Products Company. 
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Moheco is a manufacturer of products to prevent a leaking chimney,
chimney flashing kits, gutter protector products, ladder standoff
products and roll formed parts as an alternative to
extruded aluminum.

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